Describes the criteria used by optical disk (CD-ROM) database publishers to select test sites; the responsibilities of and benefits to test site libraries; and plans for future use of test sites. The experiences of Texas A&M University are discussed and suggestions are offered to libraries wishing to become test sites. (CLB)

Two audiologists discuss the measurement of hearing aid benefits by means of the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB). They also report on numbers of listening problems identified using the APHAB subscales, and identify areas where further benefits are more and less likely. (DB)

This article compares two electronic aids that send out an elliptical cone of ultrasonic sound that bounces back as a usable information signal for individuals with blindness. The Polaron is better for people who are predominantly route travelers or with limited hand use. The Mowat Sensor is better for travelers in a variety of environments. (JDD)

Intended for libraries contemplating the purchase of a bookmobile, this guide suggests evaluating the population it will serve and the programing that will be offered; collecting staff and public input; and having a consultant develop technical specifications, just as one would have an architect design a building. (four references) (LAE)

This study of the effects of lenses of different colors on the visual abilities and comfort of 20 patients with retinal disease found that, in home trials, the critical issue was density more than color. Office tests of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity with colored lenses did not predict subjective benefit. (Author/JDD)

The development and evaluation of a "kiddy cane" for use with young children with blindness, aged 2-6, is described including development of the prototype, field testing, modifications resulting from feedback from specialists, and ongoing evaluation. (Author/DB)

Comparison by 40 users of 2 technologies--Verbal Landmark and Talking Signs--that provide speech messages to hand-held receivers for blind travelers found that, on all measures, the Talking Signs system proved superior to the Verbal Landmark system. This was attributed to Verbal Landmark's more cognitively demanding technology. (DB)

Explains how commissioning can help to ensure that all components in a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system will work together as designed. Bowdoin College's experience with commissioning is highlighted. (GR)

This book describes the type and condition of playground equipment in community parks in the United States, and indicates the current status of safety of that environment. The results are then compared to play theories to explore the ways the environment stimulates play. Appropriate suggestions for change are made. Chapters cover the following…

Although children are not miniature adults, they are often treated as such when participating in many youth sport activities. Young athletes, for example, are generally expected to participate in sporting events with equipment that has been designed for adults. What effect might scaling down such equipment have on the young child's performance?…

The document makes up the appendixes to the final report of a program to evaluate user satisfaction, practicality, reliability, and maintainability of the Digicassette (or Portable Braille Recorder--PBR), an electronic braille reading and writing machine and an audiotape recorder which is compact and easy to carry around. Materials include the…

DATA FOR THIS DESCRIPTION OF EDUCATIONAL TELEVISION USE IN HAWAII PUBLIC SCHOOLS WAS COLLECTED BY QUESTIONNAIRES ADMINISTERED DURING PERSONAL INTERVIEWS WITH THE PRINCIPAL AND EDUCATIONAL TV COORDINATOR AT EACH SCHOOL. USE OF TV WAS REPORTED TO BE MORE THAN DOUBLE THE NATIONAL AVERAGE. (LH)

Designed for the architect and student, the text concerns the health of the disabled as seen through the eyes of the architect. The total environment of the handicapped is the focal point of the approach. It begins with schools; then looks at medical treatment and rehabilitation as dealt with in hospitals, special rehabilitation centers, and…

The experiences of public and private educational institutions with slant track videotape recording systems were surveyed. The users were requested to describe the type and brand of equipment they owned and to rate the machine's reliability and ascertain other performance factors. The survey also investigated the method of selection of equipment,…

It is noted that supervision of construction by school district inspectors is a twofold task--first, to provide a safe structure, and second, to insure that all phases of construction are performed in conformance with plans, specifications and other applicable codes, regulations, and directions. Within this context, guidelines are presented for…