The paper addresses computer-based augmentative writing systems for physically disabled and visually impaired students and augmentative communication systems for nonverbal speech-impaired students. Among the components described are keyboard support systems, switch systems, alternate interface systems, support software, voice output systems, and…

This discussion of assistive technology (AT) provides case studies, a definition of AT, and consideration of its benefits and challenges. The Assistive Technology Project, a two-year qualitative study, looked at AT evaluation, funding and acquisition, training, daily use, factors affecting implementation, and demands on school personnel. (DB)

This paper describes a computer-assisted communication system successfully used in three cases of "locked in syndrome" (in which the only reliable motor functions are eye movements). The paper concludes that patients who survive locked in syndrome for several weeks should be given the chance to communicate via a suitable system. (DB)

This study examined the effects of demographic factors, disability status, and individual internal resources to the long-term psychosocial adjustment of 88 married women with orthopedic, neurological, and internal chronic diseases. Results suggest that sense of coherence and socioeconomic status, rather than disability status variables, accounted…

Interviews with 16 teachers and parents of 9 children with motor disabilities in special instruction groups at Swedish schools suggested that parents, although generally reporting satisfaction with their children's education, had very little influence on contents and methods of their children's school activities. Intervention goals dominated over…

This New Zealand study examined attitudes toward persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) via a survey of 35 people with SCI, 27 SCI rehabilitation workers, 16 outpatient hospital rehabilitation workers, and 37 people from the general population. Results were analyzed in terms of age, ethnic identity, gender, professional training, and amount of…

Based on experiences with use of microcomputers in a business computer programing curriculum at a community college, this article suggests guidelines for designing a computer laboratory that will meet the needs of disabled students. Specific hardware and software aids are recommended, and the importance of faculty attitude is discussed. (three…

A survey of 36 state consultants in early childhood special education evaluated their perceptions of available developmental assessment instrumentation for the identification of children with developmental delays (ages 3-5). Results showed a need for assessment instruments that facilitate parent involvement and a need for special norms for…

Explores how people with disabilities use computer technology, as well as the issues involved in using this technology to access electronically published materials. Topics discussed include definitions of disability; uses of adaptive technology; the physical environment; documentation, training, and support; problems in accessing electronic media;…

This article describes mainstreaming efforts at an East Sussex (England) school serving students with physical disabilities but no major learning impairments. Mainstreaming students into their local schools involved parental support, preparation of mainstream schools, multidisciplinary support networks, and a carefully implemented transfer…

Effects of printed factual information and three augmentative communication techniques on attitudes of nondisabled adults toward nonspeaking adults with physical disabilities were studied. Additional information about the nonspeaking individual and increasing sophistication of the augmentative communication techniques were both found to improve…

A 39-year-old man who was blind, diabetic, and had a double amputation with chronic renal failure and peripheral vascular disease was treated with thermal biofeedback to reduce his depression through increased self-control, to minimize pain, and to facilitate healing of a pregangrenous hand. On treatment discharge, his mental and physical states…

Discusses physical disabilities and laws for "mainstreaming." Presents a checklist for classroom safety for the physically disabled. (PR)

Discussion of components of preverbal communicative competence in typically developing infants is related to development of children with severe physical impairment (SPI). Specifically, eye gaze, attention, and gesture are described as they relate to reciprocity, consistency, and predictability of infant-caregiver interactions. Intervention…

Presents a diminutive overview of research and a case study of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS), a rare, genetically complex congenital disorder. Prenatal diagnosis of this case included omphalocele, hydonephrosis, and possible horseshoe kidney, detected by ultrasound. The characteristics of this disability and related problems are discussed.…