Starting Down the Path to Independent Typing

“I believe we cannot isolate physical independence from the other two elements of facilitated communication – communication and emotional support. Although I am called an independent typer because I no longer need physical touch, I cannot walk into a room, and type without a facilitator. The facilitator must still provide communication and emotional support to allow the independent typing to happen.”
Sue Rubin, from a presentation in California, August 1999

Sujit Kurup on Independent Typing, ICI Workshop, October 2012

• Independence is getting to attest my words as my own and have sense of ownership of my thoughts, as others around would acknowledge.
• I feel rightful need to send out this message so none questions authorship of my words.
• Very tough to find my rhythm and go out by myself. —But I felt the urgent need doing it (independent typing) by myself.
• Scary but my real firm thought and determination and my mom’s support could set me to my goal.

What is Independent Typing?

• Facilitated communication/supported typing is used:
  • With people with severe communication impairments
  • By persons with movement differences
• Facilitated communication/supported typing involves:
  • Physical support
  • Emotional support
  • Communication support
• Moving towards typing independently is fading the supports given till the individual is typing on their own.
• Long-term goal of facilitated communication training.
• Easiest way to achieve the goal is fading physical support.

Why Independent Typing?

• Independent communication should be a goal of all FC users and thus take complete responsibility of their communication.
• Helps in validating their communication.
• Improves the FC users self-esteem and capability to do other skills independently.
• Fading facilitation should be a goal for all facilitators.

 
[dt_divider style=”thick” /]
 

When Should You Start Down the Path to Independent Typing?

• Should begin at the time when the technique of supported typing is introduced; talk about independent typing as the ultimate goal.
• Fading facilitation should begin soon after the FC user and facilitator have become comfortable using the technique and established in the process.
• These include looking at the keyboard and a set rhythmic movement while typing.
• FC user should be sufficiently motivated for it to succeed.

Important Elements of FC Training

• Begin with more than one facilitator.
• See independence as ongoing process.
• Understand the role of movement
• Facilitators and FC users collaborate to develop skill together.
• Practice and establish a routine.
• Recognize the importance of confidence – “Can Do” attitude.

 
[dt_divider style=”thick” /]
 

Getting FC Training Started

• Prepare a road-map to move towards independence in typing.
• Have short-term goals and long-term goals.
• Planning for this goal should involve the FC user and all their facilitators
• FC user has to play an active role in the planning process, with their ideas and inputs.
• Identify movement issues of the FC user and provide support to help overcome.
• Therapies / strategies, including:
  • Neurological drumming
  • Masgutova Reflex Integration Method
  • Infinity walk
  • Listening therapy
  • Occupational therapy, using metronome while typing etc.
• Determine the least amount of support a person needs for typing.
• Find the base line before we can begin to fade back supporting with with least to most strategy.

 
[dt_divider style=”thick” /]
 

FC Training Techniques for Success

• Use routine, predictable information first such as name, address, date and set work activity.
• Using iPad apps like ACT spell, Spelling zap, to help in independent pointing.
• Regular practice is critical: Practice, Practice and more Practice!
• Be patient, supportive and expectant.
• Need thoughtful interaction and prodding.

Although independent typing should be the goal of every FC user, it may not entirely be feasible to everyone due to underlying neuro-motor issues like severe tremor, very low muscle tone etc. But even these highly impaired individuals could try independent pointing using the carpet board strategy developed by Rosemary Crossley and/or various iPad / Android apps.

It is important to always keep in mind that even though there will be numerous road blocks on the way – Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!

More information: Not So Fringe After All: Supported Typing as a Part of AAC, M. McSheehan, AAC Presentation at the 14th Annual Autism Summer Institute, Concord, NH., August 2012 (PDF opens in new window)

 
[dt_divider style=”thick” /]