schlichting%v70nl.DECnet@NUSC.ARPA ("V70NL::SCHLICHTING") (12/21/87)
There seems to be enough network interest to post a summary of the responses I received to my request for software and hardware for persons with special needs. Suggested sources for Hardware and Software 1. There used to be a research group at the Univ. of Mass. at Amherst developing software for the handicapped. The principal investigator was Dr. Stan Kulikowski. His address is Kulikowski@CS.UMASS.EDU; his phone is (413) 545-2744. 2. I-Fan Chen-Hall <RJH%OZ.AI.MIT@MC.LCS.MIT.EDU> suggested an adaptive firmware card or the LIGHT TALKER or TOUCH TALKER by Prentke Romich Co. (216) 262-1984. Other hardware sources include: Trace Research & Development Center on Communication, Control, and Computer Access for Handicapped Individuals. (608) 262-6966 Technical Aids and Systems for Handicapped, Inc. (416) 475-2212 Another individual suggested an eye-typer which serves as a keyboard replacement device and consists of a keyboard like device with a lens in the middle. It was designed for quadraplegics and persons with limited motor control. For information contact: Dr. Mark Friedman Carnegie-Mellon University Robotics Institute 5000 Forbes Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa. 15213 A similar device, ERICA, eye-gaze response interface computer aid, was also suggested . The user selects one of several choices outlined on a screen grid - such as read a book. It was developed by Thomas Hutchinson, professor of Biomedical Engineering at the Univ. of Virginia. 3. There is a Special Education Software Center in Columbus, Ohio (800) 327-5892 or 327-2711 voice or data lines (800)772-7373 or (614)263-1132 for a free software search. If you call by voice speak to Chuck Lynd Of LINC Resources who is very knowledgeable about Special Ed software. 4. The Health Education Electronic Forum (704) 264-0674 (300/1200baud, 24hrs) Michael Pejsach, SYSOP, has set up Apple Systems and peripherals for people with special needs. Leave a message on the board and perhaps he can suggest software and peripherals. 5. In Canada, the Augmentative Communication Service (ACS) of the Hugh MacMillan Medical Center (formerly the Ontario Crippled Childrens Centre) has many O.C.'s working with the adaptive firmware card in conjunction with word processors, children's games, and educational programs. They have used this card for at least 4 years, and are intimately familiar with it (and it's shortcomings). They can be reached at: Augmentative Communication Service Hugh MacMillan Medical Centre 350 Rumsey Rd. TORONTO, Ontario M4G 1R8 (416) 425 6220 Thanks again to everyone who kindly responded. Schlichting@NUSC.arpa ------