What is it?
A keyguard is a rigid overlay placed over a touchscreen, keyboard, or AAC device with openings positioned over specific keys or buttons. It can provide physical boundaries between selections and may help individuals who have difficulty accurately targeting items on a screen or keyboard. Keyguards can be customized to match different devices, AAC layouts, keyboards, and individual access needs.
How to use it?
Place the keyguard securely over the device so its openings align with the intended buttons or keys. Consider factors such as opening size, depth, spacing, device positioning, and the learner's movement patterns when determining whether a keyguard improves access. Allow the learner to use it during authentic communication and classroom activities rather than judging effectiveness from isolated pointing tasks alone. Access needs should be reassessed over time, and a keyguard should be used when it improves access rather than simply because a learner has difficulty with direct touch.
Why use it?
For some learners, unintended selections or difficulty isolating a target can make touchscreen or keyboard access frustrating, slow, or inaccurate. A keyguard can provide tactile boundaries, support more accurate selections, and allow the hand or fingers to rest on the device without activating unintended buttons. When well matched to the individual, it can improve efficiency and reduce the physical effort required to access communication, writing, and other digital tools.
