The paper describes the development of a computer table for physically handicapped students including persons with moderate to severe cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, uncontrolled epilepsy, and paralysis due to physical trauma. The project first reviewed furniture currently available for the physically handicapped and then conducted ergonomic…

Six interface devices which students with physical impairments may use when operating the Apple II computer are described along with advantages and disadvantages, and source (when appropriate). These are: the Time Delay Keyboard, Keyguard, Magic Keyboard, Presfax-100 Touch Key-Pad, Switches (single and multiple), and Optical Strip Printer. (MC)

The paper addresses the quality and extent of services provided by academic libraries to students with disabilities. The issue of establishing standards for such services is considered, and while the author notes the formidable difficulties involved in establishing such standards, he asserts that standards must be developed and implemented. He…

The paper describes approaches used to assess preverbal or nonverbal orthopedically handicapped infants. The first section describes a conceptual approach to development that differs from the normative approach. The conceptual development model emphasizes developmental structures rather than successive cumulative acquisitions of behavior. This…

In helping to mainstream physically or health impaired children, the teacher consultant assesses a student's educational needs through testing, consultation with the school and doctor, parent interviews, and discussions with related services personnel. Implementing the instructional program includes being involved in the individualized education…

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…

A Computer Integrated Manufacturing System may make it possible for severely disabled people to custom design, machine, and manufacture either wood or metal parts. Programmable automation merges computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing, computer aided engineering, and computer integrated manufacturing systems with automated production…

The nature and effects of head trauma are discussed. Among the most common deficits noted are impaired cognition, difficulties in oral and written communication, sensory problems, and marked personality changes. Suggestions are offered for dealing with each type of deficit, such as using alarm clocks and other tools to remind the individual about…

The paper describes new software and special input devices to allow physically impaired children to utilize the graphic capabilities of personal computers. Special input devices for computer graphics access--the voice recognition card, the single switch, or the mouse emulator--can be used either singly or in combination by the disabled to control…

This monograph presents a five-module staff training program used to improve the related service of transportation of children with disabilities in Union County, North Carolina. Each module takes from 4 to more than 8 hours of training and bus drivers and transportation safety assistants with current certificates in all five modules receive a…

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 53 university students with visual, hearing, and motor impairments to determine their use and perception of campus library services. Ss, who majored in a wide range of disciplines, rated their use of library services. Most frequent use was reported by students with motor impairments, while 21% of…

The paper reviews approaches for making bibliographic instruction accessible to college students with visual, hearing, and mobility impairments. Needs assessment should focus on students, library staff, administrative officers, faculty members, and educational specialists. Consideration in program development should be given not only to special…

The program described is designed to sensitize elementary students to the needs of persons with handicaps. The program includes six 45-minute teaching units presented to fourth and fifth graders by staff members who have daily contact with special needs students. Presentations include an introductory puppet show using almost life-sized replicas of…

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…