The author describes a workshop he gave on the application of microcomputers in special education in which the voice recognition capacity of the computer was able to understand the speech of a deaf teacher. It marked the first time in his life that his speech was understood. (CL)

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…

ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) network technology handles the real-time continuous traffic flow necessary to support desktop multimedia applications. Describes network applications already used: desktop video collaboration, distance learning, and broadcasting video delivery. Examines the architecture of ATM technology, video delivery and sound…

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)

Describes a project which developed a shared electronic environment of virtual reality using satellite telecommunications technologies to create desktop multimedia networking. The origins of the concept of shared electronic space are explained, and the importance for human communication of sharing both audio and visual space simultaneously is…

This paper presents elements of the computer graphics environment including information on: Lotus 1-2-3; Apple Macintosh; Desktop Publishing; Object-Oriented Programming; and Microsoft's Windows 3. A brief scenario illustrates the use of the minimization principle in presenting a new product to a group of international financiers. A taxonomy of…

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)

The application of microtechnology in a school for multiply handicapped children is explained to include a language arts program stressing sentence formation and letter matching, production of artificial speech, and communication aids for physically impaired children. Adaptations for severe physical involvement and for visual impairments are…

Project FIT (Full Inclusion through Technology) provides notebook computers for children with severe disabilities. The computers offer many input and output options. Assessing the students' equipment needs is a complex process, requiring determination of communication goals and baseline abilities, and consideration of equipment features such as…

This column describes British technological aids that can support children with communication and writing difficulties, including (1) writing aids such as predictive typing, abbreviation expansion systems, and alternative keyboards; and (2) socially interactive communication aids such as synthetic speech using portable computers. (JDD)

This report describes management and technical security considerations associated with the use of personal computer systems as well as other microprocessor-based systems designed for use in a general office environment. Its primary objective is to identify and discuss several areas of potential vulnerability and associated protective measures. The…

Discusses the new Universal ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) standard, which promises simple, high-bandwidth access over standard telephone lines. Topics include varieties of DSL; voice and data capacities; adapters and installation for personal computers; Internet backbone capacity; and headend access. (LRW)

Continuous Attitudinal Response Technology (CART) is an alternative approach to testing students' instantaneous response to teacher behaviors in the classroom. The system uses a microcomputer and video technology device that allows researchers to measure subjects' instantaneous responses to static and continuous stimuli, graphic or verbal. A…

The conference proceedings contains 23 papers on telephone relay service, real-time captioning, and automatic speech recognition, and a glossary. The keynote address, by Representative Major R. Owens, examines current issues in federal legislation. Other papers have the following titles and authors: "Telephone Relay Service: Rationale and…

At the University of Delaware student-teacher communication within the classroom was enhanced through the implementation of a versatile, yet cost efficient, application of computer technology. A single microcomputer at a teacher's station controls a network of student keypad/display stations to provide individual channels of continuous…