The paper analyzes major microcomputer systems and their use in rehabilitative systems for persons with physical handicaps. Four categories of microcomputers are addressed: systems designed for home or school with emphasis on low cost, recreation, and educational software; general purpose microcomputers with applications in a large number of…

The paper discusses ways in which the Apple II plus and Apple IIe computers can be adapted to become highly effective tools in the education of the physically/multiply handicapped student. The role of word processing programs as communication aids, alternative input and output devices, and innovative software programs is examined. Among the…

Identifies factors to consider when evaluating educational software and describes additional criteria for evaluating software for physically disabled students. Software design which complements school curriculum and is accessible to nondisabled and moderately disabled students is presented as a solution. Sammy Series programs developed to meet…

The paper examines decisionmaking guidelines for devising a microcomputer-aided augmentative communication device for non-vocal severely handicapped students. Four considerations are addressed: (1) candidates for microcomputer-based augmentative communication devices (motor development, sensory abilities, cognitive development); (2) instruction…

Discussion of developments in microcomputer peripherals for special needs users focuses on speech synthesis for vocally impaired and mentally retarded users and speech recognition and modified keyboard technologies for physically disabled users. Specific hardware and software product names and manufacturers are included in a table together with…

A new voice based learning system (VBLS), which allows the handicapped user to interact with a microcomputer by voice commands, is described. Speech or voice recognition is the computerized process of identifying a spoken word or phrase, including those resulting from speech impediments. This new technology is helpful to the severely physically…

This booklet provides information about access to computers through alternate keyboards used by students who have physical impairments. Part 1 describes a typical technology team and the alternate keyboard selection process. Part 2 discusses the practical aspects of everyday teaching and living with an alternate keyboard user and includes…

The two information fact sheets describe (1) available computer options for use with a handicapped individual and (2) available communication techniques or aids for a severely physically handicapped son or daughter. The first fact sheet considers three ways a physically disabled individual can use a microcomputer: using special software designed…

The study compared the effects of different play conditions (microcomputer, remote-control robot, or no toys) on the amount of time four dyads of handicapped/nonhandicapped children would interact during structured play. Results suggested that microcomputers may serve as social facilitators for children with significant social and language…

Three nonvocal students (ages 5-8) with severe physical handicaps were trained in scan and selection responses (similar to responses needed for operating augmentative communication systems) using a microcomputer-operated video-game format. Results indicated that all three children showed substantial increases in the number of correct responses and…

The book focuses on the use of microcomputer technology in special education. It is intended for users with no programming knowledge. An introductory section provides suggestions for finding software and considers the microcomputer's role in communications and environmental control. The second chapter addresses key elements of microcomputer…

This book presents reports on selected "local action" projects that were developed as part of the Equity in Technology Project, which was inaugurated in 1985 by the Educational Computer Consortium of Ohio (ECCO). The book is organized into three sections, one for each of the populations targeted by the project. An introduction by Alice Fredman…

Describes the most recent innovations and advancements in computer peripheral devices and enhancements, computer software, captioning and other electronic devices, and computer languages designed to aid communication and learning in physically disabled, learning disabled, visually impaired, and hearing impaired students. (MBR)

This guide presents low tech solutions that have worked for some people with disabilities or their parents. Twenty-one ideas are offered to give children with physical disabilities more opportunities for play and art. Examples include recycling stuffed animals into puppets, punching a hole in top of playing cards to accommodate a mouth stick, and…

The 30 conference papers in this collection are presented in 6 categories. Five overviews discuss innovative uses of computers in education (Dorothy K. Deringer); microcomputers in instructional research (Alan M. Lesgold); microcomputers in the schools (Mitchell Batoff, Gary G. Bitter); and the courseware crisis (Barbara R. Sadowski). Research and…