Two rule-based (truncation and contraction) abbreviation expansion encoding methods and 1 non-rule-based (random) method were evaluated for learning curve and retrieval speed with 66 adults. The truncation method resulted in faster retrieval than the other two methods. Results have implications for training users of augmentative communication…

The impact of augmentative systems on the communicative abilities of two groups of young cerebral palsied children (total N=40) who were learning either Blissymbols or Makaton Signing was evaluated. Results indicated no significant differences between the systems and slow progress and severe limitations in sign/symbol repertoires of most children.…

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)

A study involving 10 adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and 10 controls found subjects had problems with procedural function, descriptive function, cohesion relations, and narrative function. They also showed problems in functional communication and in general pragmatic ability. Discrete problems in comprehension and in presuppositional…

This pilot study estimated the incidence of nondysphasic language and communication problems following right cerebral hemisphere damage (RHD) in 11 subjects who completed language assessments within 2 weeks of onset and again 3 months later. Results found some language impairment for 50% of the sample and marked difficulties for 20%. (Author/DB)

This article proposes the use of a rehabilitative diagnostic approach to evaluate individuals having communication disorders in the context of the International Classification of Impairment, Disabilities and Handicaps (ICIDH). It suggests the use of computer-assisted communication aids and offers guidelines for using such aids to assess…

A study examined the educational and behavioral characteristics of 35 children (ages 6-15) with autism in the United Arab Emirates. Student characteristics included hyperactivity, social withdrawal, stereotyping, distraction, and communication problems. The results also may reflect the failure of existing educational centers in meeting the…

This paper describes preliminary development of a microcomputer system to facilitate extended conversation on a broad topic for people of normal intelligence who are physically disabled and lack speech. The paper concludes that, with prestorage and preorganization of potential speech acts, satisfactory computer-assisted, real-time conversations…

This study evaluated the use of TALK, a computer-based augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system, in the social communications of a nonvocal woman with motor neurone disease. She was able to achieve an average conversational rate of 42 words per minute (wpm) using TALK, compared with 2 to 10 wpm with other AAC systems using…

Danquah Communication System (DanCS) symbol boards were developed to provide an inexpensive augmented communication device with a computerized voice interface to help nonverbal individuals with severe mental retardation or other severe disabilities to more easily communicate their needs and reduce aggressive behaviors. Evaluation with 30 subjects…