[1][2] Unlike direct selection (e.g., typing on a keyboard, touching a screen), a scanner can only make selections when the scanning indicator (or cursor) of the electronic device is on the desired choice.
[4][5] The speed and pattern of scanning, as well as the way items are selected, are individualized to the physical, visual and cognitive capabilities of the user.
[6] While there may be different reasons for using scanning, the most common is a physical disability resulting in reduced motor control for direct selection.
[4] A scanning pattern refers to the way items in the selection set are presented to the user.
It allows for easier item selection as the scanning is systematic and predictable.