The paper discusses the need to exercise greater experimental control over instructional variables in the investigation of sensory communication aids for the deaf. An analysis of several recent papers with respect to control of instructional variables, the need for better procedural descriptions in research reports and its relationship to…

The application of microcomputers for handicapped individuals has tremendous potential. Barriers needing research include: access by the handicapped to the available software, aids that are portable, the problem of obsolescence. (SEW)

This article briefly describes sensory aids for individuals with hearing impairments, such as the visible speech translator, the cochlear implant, and the digital hearing aid, and identifies common trends. The article stresses factors affecting the development of sensory aids in the past and how these factors are likely to influence the future.…

This hearing relates to the provision of assistive technology devices and services for disabled individuals, focusing on the need for a coordinated federal effort to assist states in the provision of these services. Proposed legislation (S. 1586, the Technology to Educate Children with Handicaps Act, called TECH Act) would establish assistive…

The article considers advantages and limitations of tactile, auditory, and visual means of microcomputer access for blind students. Discussed are electronic braille, paper braille, the Optacon, synthesized speech, and enlarged print. Improved multimedia access technology is predicted for the future. (Author/DB)

Reports the results of a survey of 50 academic libraries that have Kurzweil Reading Machines and discusses librarians' responses to both factual and opinion questions about use of the machines. The questionnaire used in the survey is included. (Author/CLB)

This brochure explains what a cochlear implant is, lists the types of individuals with deafness who may be helped by a cochlear implant, describes the process of evaluating people for cochlear implants, discusses the surgical process for implanting the aid, traces the path of sound through the cochlear implant to the brain, notes the costs of…

Hearing-impaired children in mainstreamed classes require assistive listening devices beyond hearing aids, lipreading, and preferential seating. Frequency modulation auditory training devices can improve speech intelligibility and provide an adequate signal-to-noise ratio, and should be incorporated into regular classes containing hearing-impaired…

Discusses literacy materials for hearing impaired persons and lists four Canadian and four American support services for such persons. (DF)

This article looks at both the problems of restrictive barriers (physical, administrative, social) to educational opportunities for the handicapped and at alternative solutions, particularly in terms of personnel needs and financial concerns directed toward the removal of these barriers. (Author/SJL)

Discusses ways in which microprocessors are aiding the handicapped in three major areas: (1) compensation (sensory, communication, and compensation for control); (2) management (personal and educational); and (3) instructional delivery (uses, advantages, problems, educational compatibility, instructional design, technical adequacy). (EJS)

This paper examines the goal of providing transparent computer access to people with disabilities, especially those with visual impairments. First, four basic strategies to provide this population with access to technology are identified: (1) building features into the computer, operating system, or application programs; (2) using adaptive…

The author examines Maria Montessori's philosophy and methods of music education for children, with its emphasis on sensory, manipulative materials and instruments designed specifically for the young child. (KC)

Considerations for determining the cost effectiveness of campus programs and devices for disabled students and examples of current programs/services are presented, along with planning strategies and selected annotated resources. Specific questions that should be considered in initiating a program or purchasing equipment are listed. Programs that…

Describes specific plans for making environmental education accessible to disabled people by adapting trail systems and facilities for safety, interpretative programing, and access. Encourages the inclusion of disabled people in the wide variety of environmental education programing by presenting solutions to traditional barriers. (MCO)