A gestural-assisted menu-driven communication system for motorically impaired persons was developed using a low-cost microcomputer with adaptations and adjustments to hardware and software. (CL)

The Alternative Communication System Project pilot tested a microcomputer-based communication device with five physically disabled students (8-15 years old). Ss exhibited a high level of accuracy in using the system, which translates Morse Code into English letters, numbers, and punctuation. Videotapes available as project demonstration materials…

A microcomputer-based Universal Laboratory Training and Research Aid (ULTRA) provides meaningful laboratory access to blind students and students with upper limb disabilities. Using ULTRA, blind students can perform chemical experiments independently. (CL)

Activities using Logo, a programing language, have been successful in helping severely physically disabled students as well as autistic children express themselves. (CL)

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…

Microcomputers can serve as expressive communication tools for severely physically disabled persons. Features such as single input devices, direct selection aids, and speech synthesis capabilities can be extremely useful. The trend toward portable battery-operated computers will make the technology even more accessible. (CL)

Prize winners in The First National Search for Applications to Aid the Handicapped are highlighted. First prize of $10,000 was presented to Dr. Harry Levitt, hearing and speech professor at the City University of New York. He programmed a TRS-80 Pocket Computer for rapid communication by the deaf over telephones. (MP)

Describes a motor rehabilitation workstation based on a microcomputer and equipped with a set of sensory input devices (touch plate, touch screen, electrodes to acquire electromyographic activity, and force-sensitive foot plates) that allows rehabilitation professionals to assess and treat patients in a multimedia environment. Discusses the…

The article describes the "Ocular Communicator" and its use with a severely physically disabled 14-year-old male. The device is designed for persons who have minimal motor function and employs eye movements for the operation of a printer or computer keyboard. (Author/DB)

This paper describes developments and applications in the utilization of personal computers in Italy to improve the communication capabilities of persons having communication disorders resulting from deafness, deaf blindness, or motor disabilities. (DB)

The application of microtechnology in a school for multiply handicapped children is explained to include a language arts program stressing sentence formation and letter matching, production of artificial speech, and communication aids for physically impaired children. Adaptations for severe physical involvement and for visual impairments are…

The "Technically Speaking" columns from several isues of "The Source" magazine are reprinted. The columns were written by Gregg Vanderheiden, Peter Borden, Roger Smith, Jane Berliss, and Charles Lee. Titles of the columns included are: "Technological Advances: A Boon or a Barrier to Persons with Disabilities?";…

This reprint of a journal article focuses on the use of computers and other personal assistive devices by disabled persons. Topics covered include: a perspective on the use of advanced technology; distinction between technological appliances which provide benefits to the individual independent of the individual's skill level, versus tools which…

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…

Discusses the philosophy behind LOGO and presents several examples of how it has been adapted for use with physically and mentally handicapped and learning disabled children to promote academic and social development through computer programing. (MBR)