Alternative Ways of Logging in for Learners with More Complex Needs

Back to Accessibility SIG Meeting 13th May 2009: Alternative Ways of Logging in for Learners with More Complex Needs.

This is the HTML version of the Alternative Ways of Logging in for Learners with More Complex Needs (PowerPoint format - 154Kb) given by Lisa Valentine, eLearning Adviser (Inclusion), JISC Regional Support Centre Northwest.

Independent Specialist Colleges
Colleges for the further education for young people with learning disabilities and or difficulties (LLDD). Learners tend to have learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Majority of colleges have learners from Milestone 1 to Level 1 on the National Qualifications Framework.

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Initial Ctrl, Alt, Delete

 * Low tech – bits of wood/plastic. Simple, low tech solution is a piece of wood/plastic of the correct shape that will hit all 3 keys at the same time!
 * Hi tech - scripting. 'Gaming' keyboards are available which contain programmable single keys, so a macro can be written to automatically do Ctrl-Alt-Delete on start up. See Saitek or Logitec – usually used for World of Warcraft etc - and the Wheeltop project for scripting done by Beaumont College.

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Biometrics

 * The use of biological unique features to act as a signature to enable access to any encrypted gateway - Encrypted gateway can mean anything that requires a log in. Computer, Facebook page, discussion group, or doorway to college or bedroom. Usually uses fingerprints - would need extra technology and database to recognise other 'bits'!
 * Software needs to be loaded onto local machine - Software is installed on local machine - each fingerprint pattern is done locally also.  There are solutions which would be able to be used across a network but a dedicated server would be the answer and not do-able for Specialist colleges.
 * Multiple digit register - Need to register at least 2 preferably 3 or 4 fingers which may be a problem for some users. Need certain amount of fine motor movement or dexterity.  Need to remember which digit is registered – may be a problem for some users.
 * Single Access - Ideal for single machine working.  Can set up system to recognise biometric for every log-in needed.  So once set up, instead of continually typing user-names and passwords it will open all on single finger press.

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Smart Cards
Single Swipe will allow access. Keeping card safe and easily located is an issue for some users. May have to rely on support staff which is back to original problem. The network can be accessed by anyone who has swiped the card. Again security risk. Back to Top of Page

Beaumont College: Wheeltop Project

 * Project for learners with communication and access difficulties.  Most are wheelchair users with no speech.
 * Project using tablet PCs (Smartbox).
 * Learner uses the Grid2 scanning software. to communicate, operate switches, control their environment, play music, send SMS messages - etc.
 * Teachers working on setting up grids relevant to their subject areas.  Specialist support staff employed to facilitate this (paid for by BT!).
 * The Wheeltop users have special accounts that auto log on to the domain - this is done with some clever Beaumont college (C) scripting / GPO (Group Policy Object) management in Windows Server. This means that we can log Wheeltop users on automatically when their tablet fires up. No need for Ctrl/Alt/delete.

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Beaumont College: Proximity Tokens

 * RFID scanner - this is a USB accessory. The student would then have a proximity token about their person, upon bringing the token within a certain distance of the reader - bingo you log on. No power in them - radio antenna with chip and number on it.  Similar to Oyster cards but different. Power is in the radio transmitter on the machine which stimulates the response from the token. Token goes - my number is 1812 – and PC says: "that's Lisa's token, I'll log her on".  Can adjust range to try to reduce accidental log-ons.
 * Uses Trusted Platform Module - Microsoft thing.  Is extension to active directory schema - adds an extra field to active directory saying Lisa has token 1812.  Staff will need password but learners just token. Are planning to use this for access control within the college - with new build.  Same as college staff having to swipe cards to  get through certain doors.
 * Issues with motor skills may be a problem here - where is the reader placed and is it in easy reach for a wheelchair user with limited reach.

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Alternative Methods
E-folio project led by TechDis has included some accessible log-ins. Credit to Rix Centre, Simon Ball (TechDis), and John Sewell (TechDis).

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