The current state of research into augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems is reviewed, and four dimensions of the study of communication handicap are described: structural, developmental, pragmatic (interaction), and technological. Recommendations regarding standardized research reporting procedures are offered in light of the…

Literature is reviewed on augmentative and alternative communication research and intervention for individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. The review focuses on prerequisites for intervention, symbol systems and sets, computer technology, and teaching strategies. Future research directions are outlined, and clinical and educational…

Three types of rapid message composition for non-speaking persons, classified according to keyboard, are described: sequential keyboard, "semantic" input through iconic representation, and chord keyboard. The strengths, drawbacks, and potential of each type are discussed for a user population with good keying ability and normal cognitive and…

The paper explores the spectrum of communication needs of physically handicapped individuals, focusing on six basic areas: (1) conversation, (2) messaging, (3) portable writing needs, (4) workstation writing, (5) access to computers and information processing equipment, and (6) access to controls and control panels needed for daily living or…

The document consists of 30 author contributed chapters concerned with augmentative communication service delivery. Chapter titles and authors are: "Communication Options for Persons Who Cannot Speak: Planning for Service Delivery" (David Beukelman); "Planning Service Delivery Systems" (Roland Hahn II); "Planning Ohio's…

Speech synthesis and speech recognition systems offer access to communication and information for students with communication disabilities, thus eliminating major historical barriers to learning for these students and allowing them to participate in the school environment. This guide describes two ways of producing speech synthesis: (1) by…

This guide outlines who may benefit from augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) approaches, such as individuals with speech handicaps, visual impairments, physical disabilities, and cognitive impairments. The guide distinguishes between "low tech" approaches such as signal systems and communication boards and "high…

A statewide (Pennsylvania) survey examined stressors and family supports of 59 families with children (ages 3 through 12) who use augmentative and alternative technology. The Parenting Stress Index and the Family Support Scale revealed that both parents perceived child-related variables of acceptance and demand as stressful but that mothers and…

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 resource guide contains 91 one-page profiles of Texas agencies and consultants providing assistive technology services to persons with disabilities. Profiles are in alphabetical order and contain general information (name, address, phone number, contact person, cost of services, population served, number served, waiting list, and referral…

This paper describes a rural Hispanic community's efforts to identify and develop a program for gifted students in grades 2-6 who are also mildly to moderately handicapped (learning disabled, behavior disordered, or communication disordered). The "Twice Exceptional" (2E) program, in Los Lunas, New Mexico, is a modified full-time separate…

The Trace Center gathers and organizes information on communication, control, and computer access for handicapped individuals. The information is disseminated in the form of brief sheets describing print, nonprint, and organizational resources and listing addresses and telephone numbers for ordering or for additional information. This compilation…

This newsletter issues offers suggestions to individuals with disabilities whose requests for assistive technology equipment or services have been refused due to an agency's financial situation. Parents asking for services for their child should point out that federal laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act guarantee a child's…

This conference proceedings document serves to establish the state of the art, highlight important methodological and conceptual issues, and identify priorities for future research in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. The document includes the papers from two opening presentations, issue papers and reactant papers, a…