Computerized Symbol Processors for Individuals with Severe Communication Disabilities

Although computerized devices have been used to aid handicapped individuals with their speech, little attention has been given to devices to aid them in producting written communication. The purpose of this article is to describe a study in which newly developed computerized systems were tested with nonspeaking individuals. Students in the study were pretested and posttested on their accuracy and speed in using the symbol boards. The results of the studies showed that students with severe communication impairments can be trained in a relatively short period of time to express themselves independently in writing. Regarding the relative merits of the two systems tested in the studies, it was concluded that both can be effectively used by severely and multiply handicapped students, although one system was viewed as having some unique advantages over the other. Recommendations for further research are discussed.