[comp.edu] Teleconference : Assistive Devices

tzippy@dasys1.UUCP (Tzipporah BenAvraham) (12/08/88)

Assistive device conference
 
  A video teleconference designed to highlight the newest technical
achievements which enhance computer usage for the disabled and handicapped
populations of America is scheduled for April, 1989. Communication aids and
devices to assist special needs individuals will be the focus of the event.
  The teleconference will include a panel discussion and video segments about
selected aids and devices designed to make computer use easier and more
efficient for disabled persons.
  Public television stations are being encouraged to participate in the
teleconference by using their broadcast facilities to receive the
teleconference and then share it with their local community.  The stations may
either invite representatives to their studios for a live viewing of the
teleconference, or they may rebroadcast the entire event to local school
districts and homes.  Rehabilitation agencies, regional adaptive device center,
and state departments of education will also be invited to view the
teleconference.
  Stations may additionally plan demonstrations of the devices following the
teleconference through the cooperation of national distributors, local dealers,
and computer hardware vendors. Finally, follow-up training, support and preview
activities for school special education staff, rehabilitation agencies and
other community organizations and individuals could be another contribution of
the local stations.
  The Software Communications Service (SCS of the Central Educational Network,
Chicago) and Education TURNKEY Systems, Inc. (Falls Church, VA) have set April
27, 1989 as the date to jointly conduct the national teleconference.
  The possibility of this joint effort is in great part the result of the
Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act, signed
into law this past August, and the subsequent funding under a US Dept of Educ/
Office of Special Education Programs Grant, which was received during October,
1988.
  For additional information, please contact Brian Callahan of SCS/CEN via
CompuServe(73407,201) or 312-390-8700 

-- 
Tzipporah BenAvraham
Big Electric Cat Public UNIX
..!cmcl2!phri!dasys1!tzippy