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 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 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)

The use of microcomputers as communication aids for physically handicapped children and adults is described. Characteristics of stationary speech output communication aids addressed include encoding by single switch users, an easy to change vocabulary through the use of an "editor," capability to speak via synthesized speech in addition to…

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

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…

The report describes programs and equipment being evaluated by a project designed to identify and provide microcomputer based devices and materials for students with handicapping conditions. Software/courseware descriptions are organized according to copyright programs and public domain programs. Commercially available products are listed with…

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 paper presents a description of and a rationale for a single-stroke LOGO package for physically handicapped students. The package is intended to promote cognitive decision making via a simplified single-stroke keyboard approach. Sequential behaviors of nonhandicapped students learning to use the system are described. Physically handicapped…

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)