Mode of Activation. Switches can be activated using various body movements such as touching, gripping, pulling, and squeezing. For example, if the forehead is the only body part the student can use to activate a switch, a grip or a pull switch would be an inappropriate choice. Placement of the switch should also be considered to insure successful activation. In order for a student to access a particular switch it may need to be stabilized in a specific place.
Switches vary in the amount of force required to achieve activation.
However, if the student demonstrates involuntary movements, a switch requiring greater force may be preferred in order to avoid accidental activation. This type of switch will alternately turn a device on and off each time the switch is activated. Since gross motor movements are frequently used to activate a switch, a large activation surface is often needed. A student who has a visual impairment may benefit from a brightly colored switch. Other students may be distracted by the color and focus more on it than the toy or appliance being activated.