From Consumer to Creator: Student-Led Switch Toy Labs Integrating Assistive Technology and Engineering

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

instruction, literacy & inclusion

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

beginner

Age Span:

kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12

Target Audience:

AT specialist
family member / caregiver
occupational therapist
special educator
speech language pathologist

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

0.01

ACVREP CEs:

1

Presentation Length: 1 hour

Location:

Plaza 4

Description:

This session will introduce a structured “Student Switch Lab” model that supports students with physical disabilities in actively participating in adapting their own switch-activated toys. Attendees will follow a step-by-step process including selecting appropriate toys, opening devices, cutting wires, testing switch circuits, and completing final assembly using adapted tools such as switch-adapted scissors, mounts, stabilizing fixtures, and adapted power outlets for tools. AAC strategies will be demonstrated to support communication throughout hands-on activities. Presenters will share practical examples, including wire-to-wire and circuit board adaptations, along with safety considerations and visual supports. Participants will receive a session template, material list, and data collection tools to implement student-led switch adaptation activities.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• As a result of this presentation, participants will be able to describe at least three equipment adaptations and methods that enable students with physical disabilities to participate in opening, testing, and assembling switch-activated toys or tools.

• As a result of this presentation, participants will be able to develop a structured therapy or classroom activity that connects switch adaptation to at least one therapy goal and one STEM concept.

• As a result of this presentation, participants will be able to identify at least three adaptable tools or toys that align with a student’s age, interests, and abilities, while considering the technical skill level required for facilitator implementation.

Disclosures:

Madeleine receives salary from St. Louis Children's Hospital. Owner of Techcessability, LLC.