Technology and Disability - Volume 5, issue 3-4

Authors: Brown, Denise L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Functional Electrical Stimulation [FES]-augmented in-home standing is a life-changing and time consuming assistive technology with the significant potential for increasing the independence of persons with Spinal Cord Injury [SCI]. Although positive psychological benefits are often cited as expected outcomes, little is known of the psychologically related effects of participation in FES research applications. To investigate these variables, four older adolescents/young adults with SCI who used FES to stand in their home environments were recruited. This study explores the age specific constructs of self-image, the disability specific constructs of personal independence and handicap, and the person-specific construct of device match for …these older adolescents. Results are described in light of disabled adolescents' needs, and future research areas are identified. Show more

Keywords: Functional electrical stimulation [FES], Spinal cord injury [SCI], Older adolescence, Personal independence, Handicap, Self-image, Quality of life [QOL], Assistive technology match

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-411

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 295-311, 1996

Authors: Albaugh, Patti R. | Fayne, Harriet

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Multimedia technology has presented teachers with an interesting dilemma: the richness of information in multimedia courseware cannot be adequately accessed and processed by an students. The learning disabled student, in particular, lacks some of the metacognitive skills that support their navigation through informational multimedia. In order to construct a supportive environment for the learning disabled student, however, the teacher needs to know what predisposition the student has towards the specific technology. This article describes the manner in which the Educational Technology Predisposition Assessment (ETPA) was modified for a middle school audience and how that modification could be extended for an …audience of learning disabled students. Show more

Keywords: Technology, Assessment, Multimedia, Learning disabilities, Media attributes, ETPA

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-412

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 313-318, 1996

Authors: Keefe, Barbara | Scherer, Marcia J. | McKee, Barbara G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The delivery of instruction through the use of computers, television, and other technologies is growing as the cost of these technologies decreases and the cost of teachers increases. A research project was designed to determine characteristics of students who successfully completed coursework in American Sign Language via distance learning compared to those who were not students who successfully completed coursework in American Sign Language via distance learning compared to those who where not successful. The Tennessee Self Concept Scale, Learning Styles Inventory, Survey of Technology Use and Educational Technology Predisposition Assessment were completed by 120 students prior to beginning instruction …in American Sign Language and learning how to operate the course technologies. After completion of ASL I and, for continuing students, ASL II, successful students compared to those determined to be less successful. Items from the Survey of Technology Use and Educational Technology Predisposition Assessment were the best predictors of ASL I and ASL II course grades and proficiency/satisfaction with use of the course technologies. Show more

Keywords: Distance learning, Technology utilization, Outcomes assessment, Technology and user interface, American sign language

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-413

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 319-326, 1996

Authors: Sax, Caren | Fisher, Douglas | Pumpian, Ian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: If outcomes for adults include valued membership in their community and work environments, then schools must assume responsibility for providing opportunities for meaningful participation and relationship-building among all students. A full range of supports and services, including the use of assistive technology, are required if students with severe disabilities are to realize these outcomes. Three case studies, illustrating the use of assistive technology in supporting students with severe disabilities in general education classrooms, are described and analyzed in this article.

Keywords: Assistive technology, Severe disabilities, Inclusive education, Trans-disciplinary teams

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-414

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 327-334, 1996

Authors: Walls, Richard T. | Batiste, Linda C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: When a disability interferes with the performance of an essential job function, a low-tech or high-tech accommodation may allow the worker to perform that function. Information on 141 cases that concerned fatigue was analyzed based on the Job Accommodation Network database. Industry, occupational category, career progression, causative factor, job function, and accommodation suggestion were the variables in these cases. In the primary analysis, 24 job functions (e.g. work at full production level, work at standing height) were related to 10 accommodation suggestions (e.g. flexible work schedule, purchase equipment). Results are discussed in terms of proactive versus reactive accommodations for fatigue …in the workplace. Show more

Keywords: Job accommodation, Fatigue, Rehabilitation, Employment, Workplace

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-415

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 335-343, 1996

Authors: Dowler, Denetta L. | Hirsh, Anne E. | Kittle, Ryan D. | Hendricks, Deborah J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A sample of Job Accommodation Network cases was examined to describe accommodations made in the workplace. An analysis of successful accommodation cases from an informal survey was conducted to determine the accommodation outcomes. The surveys revealed that businesses are making reasonable accommodations that they perceive as effective, economically beneficial, and that improve worker productivity and satisfaction. Accommodations are made across types of industry, types of jobs, and job functions. Most accommodations in this sample involved purchase of a product. Over half of the accommodations were for those in professional/para-professional and clerical job classes. A variety of disabling conditions were included …in the sample, but individuals with upper extremity limitations as a result of amputation, arthritis, and repetitive strain injuries represented the highest proportion of the sample. The cost figures for these accommodations as reported by the employers were consistent with accommodation cost information found in the literature. Show more

Keywords: Americans with Disabilities Act, Job Accommodation, Reasonable Accommodation, Employment

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-416

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 345-354, 1996

Authors: Mann, William C. | Hurren, Dianne | Charvat, Barbara | Tomita, Machiko

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Falls, fall injuries, fear of falling, and difficulty rising from a fall are significant related problems for frail elders. This study used a multivariants analysis to study differences between frail elders reporting one or more falls in the past 5 years, and those reporting no falls. Of 392 subjects, 186 (47%) reported a fall. Subjects reporting falls were more physically disabled, used more devices designed for physical disabilities, had more home environmental problems and used less assistive devices for vision impairment.

Keywords: Aging, Disability, Injury, Prevention, Mobility

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-417

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 355-369, 1996

Authors: van der Loos, H.F. Machiel | Hammel, Joy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The Vocational Training Facility (VTF) developed a three-workstation classroom as part of a project to test a new approach to the vocational training of students with physical disabilities. The three VTF workstations were equipped with an array of commercial and prototype assistive devices and software to facilitate the access to curriculum and daily-living materials. This article focuses on the prescription and set-up procedures, the use of assistive technology (AT) and its integration within a vocational training workstation, as well as a model for designing reasonable accommodation (RA) solutions that address the needs and capabilities of the individual student, the requirements …of the job and the demands of the work environment. Show more

Keywords: Vocational training, Assistive technology, Computer adaptive access, Worksite assessment and reasonable accommodation

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-418

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 371-382, 1996

Authors: Cooper, Rory A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Driven by a desire to improve their sports performance, a few wheelchair users began to challenge the rules for wheelchair sports. In so doing the flame of a revolution was lit. By producing their own wheelchairs, standard wheelchair technology was challenged. During the late 1970s, several companies arose out of the demand for custom sports chairs for daily use. The demand for improved performance and lighter weight was great enough to support an industry because the large wheelchair manufacturers at the time did not recognize this change in the market place, the door was left open for new players. Although …there has been recent consolidation of many of the original ultralight wheelchair manufacturers, growth continues. This trend should produce some exciting technologies to reduce costs and improve quality. Show more

Keywords: Wheelchairs, History, Sports and Design

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-419

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 383-392, 1996

Article Type: Calendar

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-1996-53-420

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 5, no. 3-4, pp. 393-393, 1996