Three braille translation programs, which translate computerized text files into new files of ASCII representative grade 2 braille, are evaluated, including "Braille-Talk,""PC Braille," and "The Duxbury Translator." For each program, such items as documentation, ease of operation, formatting, embedded commands,…

A study investigated spell check programs to determine how they differ in producing target words in the first position in the replacement list for misspellings generated by 111 students with learning disabilities in grades 3-8. Overall, the spell checkers were ineffective in producing target words first in the replacement list. (Contains…

This paper discusses how students with disabilities can learn to keyboard using one hand. It lists keyboarding choices for those with a hand disability, including learning the one-hand method on the standard keyboard, changing the keyboard over to a One Hand Dvoark, buying a one hand keyboard, and using an alternative to typing, such as voice…

This paper describes different products to assist students who are only able to use one hand while typing. Information is provided on: (1) access features in Macintosh and Windows95, including Easy Access (Mac) and Accessibility Options (Win95) which allow the user to press a key such as the shift key and subsequently press the letter to be…

This paper describes the development of a new technique for augmentative and alternative communication text input, commercially known as T9. T9 stands for "typing with 9 keys." The basic T9 technology is designed so that 3 or 4 letters are printed on each of 7 keys, and an 8th key is used as an unambiguous "space" key. Each keystroke designating a…

Describes microcomputer-based hardware, software, and adaptive devices that are available to help disabled students based on experiences in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Highlights include speech synthesizers; devices for computer monitors that bypass the need to use a keyboard; switches sensitive to light, movement, and air; and word…

A survey of one region in Scotland attempted to identify the number and characteristics of children with dysgraphia, multidisciplinary and inter-professional services and relationships, and the role of electronic keyboards or word processors. Among detailed findings was that 20 percent of children had stopped using keyboards with the most frequent…

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…

Discussion of assistive technology for students with learning disabilities in general education classrooms first reviews computer supports for writing including talking word processors, word prediction software, portable note-taking devices, prewriting organizers, multimedia prewriting prompts, and editing/publishing software. It then considers…

Technological solutions have enabled postsecondary students with learning disabilities to compete equally with nondisabled peers in the educational environment. Such solutions have included a variety of educational software, word processing applications, and adaptive technology. Educational software has many benefits over more traditional…

This curriculum and set of support materials are intended to help special educators and others incorporate assistive writing technologies into the writing curriculum and teach the student with a disability how to use the technology. Materials are included to be placed at each computer, which cover the operating basics for both Macintosh and…

Intermediate grade students with disabilities in written expression and emotional/behavioral disorders were trained to use discrete or continuous speech input devices for written work. The study found extreme variability in the fidelity of the devices, PowerSecretary and Dragon NaturallySpeaking ranging from 49 percent to 87 percent. Both devices…

This training module is part of a series that provides a basic introduction to using assistive technology with young children (ages 2 to 7) who have severe disabilities in more than one area of development. This module on education begins with an introduction which outlines the role of technology, myths and realities about technology, members of…

The resource guide identifies products which assist individuals with mobility impairments in accessing IBM (International Business Machine) Personal Computers or the IBM Personal System/2 family of products. An introduction provides a general overview of ways computers can help persons with mobility impairments. The main portion of the document…

The paper examines ways in which computers have radically altered and improved the lives of handicapped students. The visually impaired have been helped through the use of computerized braillers, embossers, and readers. Both adaptations of off-the-shelf software and specialized software have provided the visually impaired with magnification of…