assistive computer technology for ms-dos training … pdf/act for ms-dos.pdf · assistive computer...

Assistive Computer Technology ForMS-DOS Training Guide

High Tech Center Training UnitOf the California Community Colleges at theFoothill-De Anza Community College District

21050 McClellan RoadCupertino, CA 95014

(408) 996-4636

Rev. 5/3/95.

• WordPerfect 5.1 (Dos)

Publisher:WordPerfect Corporation1555 N. Technology WayOrem, Utah 84057(801) 225-5000

System Requirements:PC/MS-DOS machines

Description:

Retail Cost $495.00

Pull-down menus and mouse support are important new features ofWordPerfect 5.1. All major commands can be run from these pull-downmenus. Mouse support makes it easier to select a block or menu item, or toscroll the screen. Another new feature is support for easy creation of tables: auser can simply choose the initial number of rows and columns for the table.The mail merge function and label creation are more powerful and easier touse than in prior versions of WordPerfect. Additional features include: centeror right justification of text; setting tabs that are relative to a margin (when amargin is changed, tabs move with it); and easily moving families within anoutline.

A WordPerfect Workbook is included with the software program whichintroduces new features and techniques for creating and editing documents.An on-line tutorial program is also included which introduces the keyboardand basic word processing skills.

Memory requirements: 384K of free memory and a hard drive, or if runningon a two disk drive system, each drive must be at least 720K or larger. A harddisk is recommended and installation is relatively simple.

Recommended Uses:Students benefit from learning to use this all-purpose word processor in anumber of ways. Because WordPerfect is the most widely used word processorin the MS-DOS/PC-DOS environment, students develop potential job skills asthey learn to use the program. Students are able to work in mainstreamcampus computer labs (most of which use WordPerfect) when they knowWordPerfect. Students cannot learn assistive technologies in a vacuum; theyneed a software environment in which to learn these tools, and WordPerfectprovides a flexible, versatile environment in which students can learn tomanipulate access tools.

WordPerfect can be used very simply. As few as thirteen commands provide astudent with basic document production skills.

ACT for MS-DOS 1

Basic Use:Many books and materials are available which lead a new user through thebasics of WordPerfect. Information in this guide is not intended to provide in-depth instruction, but is designed to provide a very concise list of usefulcommands.

WordPerfect 5.1 may be operated through keyboard commands or through theuse of drop-down menu options. It is suggested that beginning students maybenefit from using commands to run WordPerfect. In this way, students canuse older versions of WordPerfect which did not come with a drop down menufunction.

It is possible to use a mouse with WordPerfect when the drop down menu isused.

Intermediate and Advanced Use:

Formatting Text:The following format settings are automatically applied to all new documents:

1. Margins:Left, right, top and bottom margins are set for 1".

2. Line Spacing:Text is single-spaced.

3. Page breaks and page numbering:Page break is automatically inserted after 55 lines.Page numbering is off.

4. Tabs:Tabs are set at .5" (every 5. spaces).

About the WordPerfect Reveal Codes Window:

WordPerfect does not display formatting commands on screen, but they may beseen in a special window, the Reveal Codes window. Pressing Alt-F3 opensthis window on the lower half of the screen. The upper half of the screendisplays text at and around the cursor position. The Reveal Codes windowdisplays the same text with the formatting commands which have beenselected. Formatting codes and text may be deleted or added in the RevealCodes window.

Format changes to previously formatted text can only be made in the RevealCodes window. Enter Alt-F3 again to close the Reveal Codes window.

•

•2 ACT for MS-DOS

Changing Margins:

1. To set a new left margin, first press Shift-F8, then 1, and then 7. Enterthe new starting number for the left margin and then press Enter.

2. To set a new right margin, first press Shift-F8, then 1, and then 7. Enterthe new starting number for the right margin and then press Enter.

3. To set a new top margin, first press Shift-F8, then 2, and then 5. Enterthe new number for the top margin and then press Enter.

4. To set a new bottom margin, first press Shift-F8, then 2, type the newnumber for the bottom margin and press Enter.

Changing Line Spacing, Justification and Centering Text:

1. To change line spacing, first press Shift-F8, then 1, and then 6. Enterthe number of spaces between the lines (2 for double spacing), then pressEnter. The Reveal Codes window must be used to change or deletespecial line spacing.

2. To turn right justification on or off, first press Shift-F8, then 1, and then3. Press y or n and Enter to turn right justification on or off.

3. To center text on current line, press Shift-F6 and enter text.

Changing Page Breaks:

1. To insert a hard page break at the cursor position, press Control- Enter.

2. To remove a hard page break, move the cursor to the beginning of theline just below the break and press Backspace.

Changing Page Numbering:

1. Position the cursor on the page at which new numbering is to begin.First press Shift-F8, then 2, and then 6. Enter the new page number andpress Enter.

Clearing and Setting Tabs:

1. To clear all tabs, first press Shift-F8, then 1, then 8, and then Control-End.

2. To set a single tab stop, first press Shift-F8, then 1, and then 8. Move thecursor to the desired position on the tab ruler and press L (for a standard

• tab).

ACT for MS-DOS 3

•3. To delete a single tab stop, first press Shift-F8, then 1, and then 8. Movethe cursor on the tab ruler to position of the tab to be removed and thenpress Delete or Backspace.

Special Printing Features:

1. To underline text, first press F8 and then enter text. When throughentering text to be underlined, press F8 again. Text will change color.To underline text previously entered, use the Reveal Codes window.

2. To boldface text, first press F6 and then enter text. When throughentering text to be boldfaced, press F6 again. Appearance of text willchange. To boldface text previously entered, use the Reveal Codeswindow.

Creating Headers and Footers:

Note: Headers and footers will not be visible on the screen. Use the RevealCodes (Alt-F3) or View Document (Shift-F7, 6) commands to view thetext.

1. To create a header, first press Shift-F8, then 2, and then 3. SelectHeader A or B, select page placement, enter header text, and then pressEnter.

2. To create a footer, first press Shift-F8, then 2, and then 4. Select Footer Aor B, select page placement, enter footer text, and then press Enter.

Re-formatting Text:

When margin settings are changed, all text entered after the line at which thenew margin setting was made will conform to new margin setting. Previouslyentered text below the new margin setting will automatically re-format as thecursor passes through it. Once margin settings (other than default marginsettings) are in place, they can only be changed by deleting the old setting inReveal Codes window and setting new ones.

Marking a Block of Text:

Place the cursor under the first character of the text to be included in the blockand press Alt-F4. Move the cursor with the arrow key through the text to bemarked. Stop the cursor on the last character in the block to be marked.Proceed with appropriate block function. To cancel or back out of marking ablock, press Alt-F4 again.

4 ACT for MS-DOS

•

S

Copying a Block of Text

Define the block of text with Alt F4. Press Control F4 and select 1 for Block, andthen 2 for Copy. The highlighting will disappear on the text; move the cursorto the position where the text will be duplicated and press Enter.

Moving a Block of Text

Define the block of text with Alt F4. Press Control F4 and select 1 for Block andthen 1 for Move. The defined block disappears from the screen. Move thecursor to the position where the text is to be inserted and press Enter.Notes:

1. It is necessary to use a command switch option when using WordPerfectwith other access technologies. The Ink option appended to the standardcommand which loads WordPerfect causes WordPerfect to allow otherprograms to take over the keyboard. The following example illustratesthe use of this option as WordPerfect is loaded.

C:>wp/nk

2. It is necessary to set the WordPerfect cursor speed control to Normal (noenhanced cursor speed). The command key sequences necessary toinstall this change follow:

Shift-Fl to open Setup Menu3 to select Environment6 to select Cursor SpeedBack out of the menu with F7

Some terminate and stay resident (TSR) programs will not operatewithin WordPerfect unless this setting is installed.

3. If students who are blind will be using a screen reader withWordPerfect, it is best to change the default status line units of measureto the option which tracks the cursor by row and column. The commandsequence for this change is as follows:

Shift-Fl to open Setup Menu3 to select Environment8 to select Units of Measure3 to select Status Line Displayu to select row and column option

ACT for MS-DOS 5

6 ACT for MS-DOS

right 1 character ....................................right 1 wordright to end of lineleft 1 character ...left 1 wordleft to beginning of lineup 1 lineup to top line on screen ........up to beginning of documentdown 1 line .......................down to bottom line on screendown to end of document .....

Right Arrow........................................... Ctrl-Right Arrow

EndLeft Arrow

............................................. Ctrl-Left ArrowHome-Left Arrow

.............................................. Up ArrowHome-Up ArrowHome Home-Up ArrowDown ArrowHome-Down ArrowHome Home-Down Arrow

up to top of previous page .......................down to top of next pageup to top of current page .....down to bottom of current page

PgUp......................... PgDn

Ctrl-Home Up ArrowCtrl-Home Down Arrow

1 character left of cursor ........................1 character above cursorword at cursor ..............word to left of cursor............................

Backspace........................ Delete

Ctrl-BackspaceCtrl-Backspace (cursor atspace beyond word to beerased)Home-DeleteCtrl-EndCtrl -PgDn

word to right of cursor ............................from cursor to right end of line ................delete page .............................................

•

• Wordperfect Summary Of Commands

To Move Cursor Press

To Scroll Press

To Insert PressText Ins ................................................a line ....................................................

(On/Off)Enter

To Erase Press

ACT for MS-DOS

S

Changing Text Format Pressleft or right margin ................................ Shift-F8, 1, 7top or bottom margin ........................... Shift-F8, 2, 5right justification ...................................Shift-F8, 1, 5center text ........................................... Shift-F6line spacing on screen ............................ Shift-F8, 1, 6paragraph indent ...................................use first tabinsert a page break ..................................Ctrl-Enteromit page numbering ...........................Shift-F8, 2, 7starting page number ............................. Shift-F8, 2, 6set or clear a tab ..................................... Shift-F8, 8underline text ........................................ F8boldface text ........................................... F6create a header ................................... Shift-F8, 2create a footer ..................................... Shift-F8, 3

Marking and Moving Text Pressmark block of text ...................................F12 or Alt F4delete marked block of text ....................... Backspacemove marked block of text ....................... F4, B, Mcopy marked block of text ......................... F4, B, C

Special Functions Press save and continue ...................................F10save and close ......................................... F7, Y, Nsave and exit .......................................... F7, Y, Ycancel and continue .............................. F7, N ,Ncancel and exit ........................................ F7, N, Yview document ....................................... Shift-F7open a window ........................................ Ctrl-F3

(shift from window to window) ............ (F3)access spell check................................. Ctrl-F2access thesaurus ....................................Alt-Flto print ................................................... Shift-F7

8 ACT for MS-DOS

• Instant Definitions (DOS )

Publisher:Word Science Corporation1415 Oakland Blvd., Suite 220Walnut Creek, CA 94596(510) 939-1190

System Requirements:

Retail Cost: 839.00

This program is designed for use on IBM PC/ PC/XT, PC/AT, PS/2, andIBM compatibles. The program requires 4k of. RAM and a hard drive withat least 2.5 MB of available space.

Description:Instant Definitions provides immediate access to information from theAmerican Heritage Dictionary (Office Edition) for over 116,000 words, wordforms, and phrases. This on-line dictionary allows the user to browsethrough detailed information which includes multiple definitions,hyphenation, parts of speech, usage notes, synonyms, and samplesentences. It also is possible to get definitions for words appearing in adefinition.

The program can be used as a stand-alone terminate and stay resident(TSR) program, or it can be configured to work specifically with aparticular word processor. It is recommended that the program beconfigured to work with WordPerfect (versions 5.x). A version for theinterim release of WordPerfect 6.0 (text mode only) is projected for releasein January 1994.

Recommended Uses:This program is especially useful for persons needing definitions for wordsappearing on the spell check suggestion window of WordPerfect. Wheninstalled to run with WordPerfect, Instant Definitions is "smart" about thespell check screen, and it is possible to get a definition for each wordsuggestion.

Basic Use:Easy Use in WordPerfect SpellCheck:

Pressing Alt D activates a highlight bar in the spell checker suggestion list.Use the arrow keys to move the highlight bar to a word for which adefinition is desired. Tap the Enter key to bring up a definition for thatword.

Easy Use in WordPerfect Thesaurus:

Pressing Alt D activates the highlight bar in the thesaurus window. Movethe highlight bar to the desired word and press Enter. To requestinformation about additional words in the thesaurus window, press Escapeto remove the Information window, then press the Alt D to repeat theprocess.

Intermediate Use:Standard Operating Commands

Once the program is installed and loaded in memory, the following hotkeycommands operate the program:

Alt D Word DefinitionThis command provides information about the word at the cursor.

Alt B Phrase CaptureThis command is to be used when information is desired for more than oneword, e.g., sweat shirt.

Alt A Options MenuThis displays a menu selection bar at the top of the screen which providesaccess to every program function except permanent changes or removalfrom memory within an application program.

Commands to Use When Instant Definitions is onscreen and active:

Alt B Browse dictionary headwords

Alt H Retrieve list of words browsed

Alt I Use this inside Suggestions, Browse, History orDictionaryScan boxes; word at Instant Definitions cursorwill be inserted in application document.

Alt S Begin DictionaryScan to search for word occurrences

Alt R Return to Search Results List after retrieving a completedefinition display from the list.

Notes:

•

•

•

Turbo Lightning (DOS)

Publisher. Retail Cost: $ .00Borland, Inc.(Discontinued by Borland andtemporarily available from theHigh Tech Center Training Unit.)


Description:Spell-checking documents is an important component of assistive computertechnology for students with learning and other disabilities. Automatic spell-checking allows learning disabled students with poor spelling skills toconcentrate on document creation rather than on the mechanics of spelling.

There are two basic types of spell checking programs: real-time and fulldocument. Turbo Lightning is a real-time spelling checker. A real-timespelling check program continuously monitors spelling as the document isbeing typed. The user is immediately notified if a word has been misspelled. Afull document spell-check program corrects spelling in an entire document, orselected portions, generally after writing is complete. Some real-time and full-document spell-checkers also include a thesaurus.

A real-time spell-check and thesaurus used in conjunction with a fulldocument spell-check provides the most complete assistance for students withlearning disabilities.

Basic Use:To load Turbo Lightning from the hard drive, type light at the C: prompt.

About the Dictionary

1. Turbo Lightning works by monitoring the spelling of words as they arebeing typed. When a spelling error occurs, that is, when TurboLightning cannot find a similarly spelled word in its dictionary, a beepwill sound.

2. Press the Minus (-) key on the numeric key pad. Turbo Lightning willdisplay a window of possible spelling choices (it may be necessary to usethe PageDown key to see all the suggested words).

ACT for MS-DOS 11

3. Words may be selected by entering the letter in front of the word or usingthe up and down arrow keys to locate the highlight bar on the word to beselected and pressing Enter. Either method will cause Turbo Lightningto replace the misspelled word with the one chosen from the window.

4. If the word is found to be correctly spelled, a small window appears withthe statement "Spelling Confirmed." Pressing Escape will cause thewindow to disappear.

5. To escape from a dictionary window at any time, simply press theEscape key.

About the Thesaurus

1. To see synonyms for a word, place the cursor anywhere in the chosenword or in the space just after the word and press the Asterisk (*) key onthe numeric keypad. A list of possible synonyms will appear in awindow similar to the dictionary window.

2. To select a word, press the letter in front of the word or use the up anddown arrow keys to position the highlight bar over the desired word andpress Enter. Turbo Lightning will automatically replace the word in thetext with the word selected from its window.

Intermediate Use:EnvironmentsTurbo Lightning can be configured to work with many application programs.The configuration can be set from the menu or from the command line.Permanent configurations can only be saved through the Turbo Lightningmenu.

1. Press Alt Home and a drop-down menu appears across the top of thescreen. Selecting the Environments option displays a list of programssupported by Turbo Lightning. Pressing the letter in front of the optionautomatically configures Turbo Lightning to work with that program.

2. Press the Escape key to return to the DOS prompt or to the applicationprogram. To permanently change Turbo Lightning to this newconfiguration, select the Setup option from the Main menu and fromthat menu, select choice D (Save SetUp / Options / Environment).

3. To set a configuration from the command line:• first load Turbo Lightning into memory by typing light and thenpressing Enter.

• then type envi (letter) where the letter is that listed by theapplication in the Environment menu (e.g., envi f loads TurboLightning configured for WordPerfect).

12 ACT for MS-DOS

• Turbo Lightning Hot KeysCommands to search for a misspelled word or to do a full screen check arelisted in the Options section of the Main menu in Turbo Lightning. This menuis accessed by pressing the Alt and Home keys and then choosing 0 forOptions. The following is a list of the Hot Keys as they are presently configuredon High Tech Center versions of Turbo Lightning.

Alt Home .................................. Main menuAlt Up Arrow ............................ Last bad wordMinus (on numeric keypad) ........... Check wordAlt Right Arrow ............................ Screen checkAlt PgDn ...................................... Review screenAsterisk (on numeric keypad) .......... ThesaurusAlt Down Arrow ........................ Toggle auto proof

Instructions to Modify Hot keys in Turbo Lightning1. Bring up the Turbo Lightning menu with appropriate hot key(s).2. Press 0 for Options to open that menu.3. Move the highlight bar to the desired hot key command and press Enter.4. Enter the keys which make up the new hot key command (no more than

two). The "Enter New Key" window automatically disappears.5. Change any other hot key commands.6. Use the Left Arrow to move to the Setup menu.7. Select the Save option by entering d or moving the highlight to that

selection and pressing Enter. The Turbo Lightning menu closes.

• The new hot key commands are now installed and active, and there is noneed to restart the program.

Notes:

ACT for MS-DOS

•

14 ACT for MS-DOS

ZoomText Plus (DOS)

Publisher: Retail Cost .50Ai SquaredP.O. Box 669Manchester Center, VT 05255-0069(802) 362-3612

System Requirements:ZoomText requires an IBM PC or compatible computer (PC, XT, AT, PS/2, 386,or 486) with a VGA or EGA graphics adapter and a EGA or VGA displaymonitor.

Description:ZoomText Plus is a software based large print display program whichmagnifies both text and graphics. It is fully compatible with the majority ofcommonly used text based applications (WordPerfect, dBase, Lotus, etc.) andmany graphics applications. ZoomText can adjust screen color, textmagnification, and is able to track the cursor, mouse, or highlight. Thetracking options may be used separately or in combination. ZoomText also hasthe capability to track the speech cursor for most screen readers. The programprovides a variety of useful magnification features including a "magnifyingglass mode" and enlargement of a single line of text.

The program contains a wide array of options which benefit persons with lowvision. Scrolling of enlarged text is smooth and very controllable. Enlargedcharacters are well formed and easy to read. ZoomText Plus also includes aversion (Ztwin) which works in the Microsoft Windows environment.

Recommended Uses:ZoomText Plus is intended for use by persons with low vision. It may also be ofvalue to individuals with learning disabilities.

Basic Use:Starting ZoomTextTo start ZoomText, type zoomtext at the DOS prompt.

Turning ZoomText Off and OnWhen ZoomText is active, pressing Alt Delete turns it off. This command, likemost most two-key commands, is performed by holding the Alt key down andpressing the Delete key. To turn ZoomText back on, press Alt Insert.

ACT for MS-DOS 15

Using the Pop-Up Menu System or Hot Keys to Set Features

When ZoomText is active, pressing Alt Insert will call up the Main menu.Selections are made by moving the menu bar with arrow keys to the desiredselection and pressing Enter. Pressing the first letter of the selection will alsochoose the option. For some ZoomText features, the menu selection processcan be bypassed with hot key commands.

Hot Keys for Functions

•

To go into ReviewTo View LocationTo Enlarge TextTo Make Text Smaller

Alt Scroll LockAlt Asterisk (on numeric keypad)Alt Plus (on numeric keypad)Alt Minus (on numeric keypad)

Using ZoomText:

Setting Font SizeHolding down the Alt key and pressing the Plus key on the numeric keypadwill make the text larger. Alt Minus (on numeric keypad) makes text smaller.

ZoomText operates at two levels of resolution: Full and Quick. In Full mode,text has better resolution with smoother edges. The Quick mode is 4 timesfaster than the Full mode and supports fonts to 16X. The Full mode onlysupports text to 8X. ZoomText defaults to Full mode in graphic environments.

When large text is used on slower machines, the Quick mode will prove to bemost efficient.

Getting Around the Screen With ZoomTextZoomText will follow the cursor around the screen if Cursor Track is on.ZoomText key commands will move the viewing window around the screenwithout changing cursor position. After using any of the key commands listedbelow, pressing Escape will return the viewing window to cursor position.

Scroll LeftScroll RightScroll UpScroll Down

Jump LeftJump RightJump UpJump DownGo to Center

Alt Left ArrowAlt Right Arrow

Alt Up ArrowAlt Down Arrow

Alt HomeAlt End

Alt PageUpAlt PageDownAlt 5 (on numeric keypad)

16 ACT for MS-DOS

• Intermediate Use:Other ZoomText Features:

Menu OptionsZoomText has many features which may be customized through a drop downmenu or hot keys. Some menu options are discussed below.

The ZoomText menu contains eight options:

ZoomThis menu controls the way in which ZoomText functions as a screenmagnifier. There are five options:

Full Mode This mode uses the full screen as zoom window, has the highestresolution, and magnifies to 8X.

Quick Mode This mode uses the full screen as zoom window, is four times fasterthan full mode, and magnifies to 16X.

Line Mode This mode magnifies a single line of text which moves vertically withtracking; all other text is unmagnified. On an EGA monitor, text in themagnified line cannot exceed 5X.

Area ModeThis mode magnifies a sizable rectangle which may be placed anywhereon the screen; the window does not move with tracking.

Glass Mode This mode magnifies a sizable rectangle which moves with tracking.

MagnificationFont size can be set through direct menu selection or through hot keys(Alt Plus or Alt Minus). In Full mode, magnification goes to 8X; inQuick mode to 16X, and in a graphic environment, ZoomText defaults toFull mode and will not get larger than 8X.

WindowThere are four viewing window control mode options: the View optionsallows the user to relocate the viewport in relation to the normal screen(Alt Asterisk {on numeric keypad] is the hot key for this action); theScroll, Move and Resize options affect the content, location or size of thewindow. Three other choices are window attribute toggles.

S

ACT for MS-DOS 17

•ReviewThe automatic screen review mode (the same as "scrolling" in the Vistascreen enlarging program) is toggled on through this menu. The hotkey for this is Alt Scroll Lock. Escape stops Review.

Ways in which the Review functions behave are set through options inthis menu, e.g. vertical review or horizontal review. Arrow keys can beused to control the Review direction.

FontsThere are three fonts: default font is PC, the largest, thickest font; theother two styles are Helvetica and Courier.

TrackZoomText can be set to track the cursor, mouse, or highlight. It also willtrack some screen reader cursors. The tracking functions can be usedseparately or in combination. (ZoomText will only recognize a mousedriver equivalent to a Microsoft mouse driver version of 6.0 or later.)

JustifyThe Justify function controls how and when the viewing window movesin relation to tracking motion. Setting Justification at Center causesZoomText to position the cursor at the center of the screen except when itis moving from the left margin to center. Text will scroll to the left ofcursor as the cursor remains stationary in the center. Other options areavailable, but Center justification is best for general use.

In addition to the Justify options, there is one other option on this menuwhich affects basic ZoomText use: the Jump feature. There are twooptions under Jump. If Margin is selected, all ZoomText movementcommands performed with Alt and a special key will move the viewingwindow to the margin of the screen, e.g. Alt Home moves the viewingwindow to the left margin, Alt PageUp moves the viewing windowdirectly up to the top margin. If Window is selected, Alt movementcommands will move the viewing window only in increments of thewindow size.

ColorsThe Color menu provides the ability to set individualized colorpreferences. In addition to a full color palate, there also is a toggle forblack on white display or the reverse.

Suggested Default SettingsThe following features are suggested as default settings. They may beinstalled through the menu or through command switches when ZoomText isloaded.

18 ACT for MS-DOS

•

•Option Setting

FullCommand Switch

Mode /zmTrack Cursor /tc+

Mouse /tm+Highlight /th+

Justify Center /jcJump Margin /jjm

Notes:

•

ACT for MS-DOS 19

S

20 ACT for MS-DOS

•

PC Magazine Cursor Definition Utility (DOS)

Publisher: Retail Cost: SFreePC MagazinePublic domain and may be duplicated and distributed at will. The smallprogram file (cursor.com) can be obtained from the High Tech CenterTraining Unit.

System Requirements:PC/MS DOS machines

Description:The PC Magazine Cursor Definition Utility allows the user to modify the shapeof the cursor. The cursor can be made taller and thicker, for example, tofacilitate easier visual discrimination.

Recommended Uses:Users with low vision and some students with learning disabilities may findthe default cursor difficult to distinguish from text on the screen. Theprogram allows each user to select a cursor size from a grid of options.

Basic Use:1. To load the largest cursor available, type: cursor/aa at the drive prompt.

To load any other cursor, type: cursor/(any coordinates).2. To look at other cursor options, type: cursor at the drive prompt, and use

the arrow keys to navigate around the grid.3. Press the Space Bar to view the cursor with text.4. Press Enter to select the cursor and exit.

Notes:1. This program must be loaded after Turbo Lightning.2. A similar cursor utility, WordPerfect Cursor Definition Utility, is

bundled with WordPerfect 5.1.

ACT for . MS-DOS 21

Vocal Eyes (DOS)

Publisher: Retail Cost: $450.00GW Micro310 Racquet DriveFort Wayne, IN 46825(219) 483-3625

System Requirements:MS-DOS compatible computer and speech synthesizer

Description:Vocal Eyes is a versatile screen reading program. A screen reader is asoftware program which converts text from the screen to information whichcan be spoken by a speech synthesizer. Screen readers, primarily designedfor use by blind computer users, are also useful for students with low visionand for some students with learning disabilities.

Vocal Eyes can be used as an auditory text editing and reading tool forstudents with learning disabilities.

Recommended Uses:For Students with Visual Impairments:

Vocal Eyes is useful for students with low vision as well as for students whoare non-sighted. Students requiring very large text on the screen will oftenbe more productive if they use a screen reader in conjunction with their textmagnification software.

For Students with Learning Disabilities:

Vocal Eyes now supports the following options useful for students withlearning disabilities: a moving cursor highlight on the word being read;the ability to change the foreground and background colors of the movinghighlight.

Some students with learning disabilities will benefit from editing theirwritten documents by hearing what they have written. Students exhibitingthe following errors in written text may benefit from using a screen reader forediting purposes: semantic confusions; verb tense omissions; or omission ofmorphemic markers such as plural endings. Other students may need tohear what they have written in order to monitor the content of what they arewriting.

Sentence ReadingAlt Right ArrowAlt Left ArrowCtrl S

reads next sentencereads previous sentencereads current sentence

Paragraph ReadingCtrl 0Ctrl PCtrl Q

reads previous paragraphreads current paragraphreads next paragraph

Basic Use: •For Students with Learning Disabilities:

Word ReadingCtrl Right Arrow reads current wordCtrl Left Arrow reads previous word

Speak and SpellCtrl W reads word at cursor

pressing Ctrl W a second timecauses Vocal Eyes to spell the word3rd time does military spelling

For Students with Visual Impairments: •Reading Commands

Up Arrow moves cursor directly up one line andreads it

Down Arrow

Left or Right Arrow

Ctrl Left or Right Arrow

Alt Left Arrow

Alt Right Arrow

moves cursor directly down one lineand reads it

moves cursor one character to left orright and reads it

moves cursor to beginning of previousor next word and reads it

reads previous sentence and moves cursorto beginning of previous sentence

reads next sentencecursor placed at beginning of sentenceread.

•

•

•

Intermediate Use:Vocal Eyes has a unique mnemonic interactive command set. Holding downthe Ctrl key and pressing the C key will cause Vocal Eyes to read thecharacter at the cursor. Holding down the Ctrl key and tapping the W keycauses Vocal Eyes to read the word at the cursor, and Ctrl S reads currentsentence; Ctrl P reads current paragraph; Ctrl L reads current line.

Commands to read previous or current cognates of the above commands relyon alphabetic order: for example: Ctrl B reads previous character, Ctrl Dreads next character.

Quick Interactive Keyboard Commands

Ctrl B, C, D reads previous, current or nextcharacter

Ctrl V, W, Y reads previous, current or next wordrespectively

Ctrl K, L, M reads previous, current or nextline respectively

Ctrl R, S, T reads previous, current or nextsentence respectively

Ctrl 0, P, Q reads previous, current or nextparagraph respectively

Alt Down Arrow moves cursor to next sentence andreads it

Alt Up Arrow moves cursor to previous sentence andreads it

Alt R reads to end

Alt C reads bar

Ctrl \ brings up Vocal Eyes menu

Ctrl N Vocal Eyes will ignore next command

Ctrl X Silence

•

Special Vocal Eyes Features •

Two Types of Review Mode: Standard and VE Cursor

Standard Review ModeCommands: Alt Starts review mode

Alt Exits review modeEscape Exits review mode

Tapping the Alt key once invokes the standard review mode. The reviewcursor always moves to the position of the application cursor. In standardreview mode it is possible to read information from any place on the computerscreen. The application program screen is frozen and does not change as thereview mode cursor moves. The Vocal Eyes reading hot keys which work inthe application mode are also available in the review mode. When reviewmode activities are completed, it is necessary to exit back to the applicationmode.

VE Cursor Review Mode (works only when Numlock is off)

Command: Minus (on numeric keypad) Starts VE review

The VE cursor is an interactive review mode. This means that is possible toreview the screen and have the underlying application program remainactive. When the VE cursor is invoked, the cursor goes to the last place theVE cursor was used; this is a major difference from the standard review modewhich always begins with the review cursor at the application cursor position.There in no visible VE cursor.

If a keystroke which is not a VE command is entered, Vocal Eyes will allowthe keystroke to go to the application program. In this way, it is possible towork in the application and use the invisible VE cursor to read any portion ofthe screen. Additionally, it is also possible to use the standard review modeand the VE cursor review simultaneously.

VE Cursor Commands

The VE Cursor is controlled through the numeric keypad. The Numlockkey must be off.

7 or Home1 or End8 or Up Arrow2 or Down Arrow

9 or Page Up3 or Page Down

4 or Left Arrow

moves VE cursor to column 1 of current linemoves VE cursor to end of current linemoves VE cursor to previous line and reads itmoves VE cursor to next line and reads it

moves VE cursor to top left of screenmoves VE cursor to first column of last line

moves VE cursor to left and reads the character •

• 6 or Right Arrow5 or Center

Period or DeletePlus

moves VE cursor right and reads the characterreads character under VE cursorsecond tap pronounces character mnemonicallyspeaks current VE cursor positionroutes application cursor to the VE cursor

More VE Cursor Commands (using the Numpad Zero key)

It is possible to use the Zero key on the numeric keypad as a special shift key.Each numeric key command listed below must be prefixed with the Zero key helddown.

•

7 or Home9 or Page Up8 or Up Arrow4 or Left Arrow6 or Right Arrow5 or Center

1 or End3 or Page Down2 or DownPeriod or DeletePlus

reads text from beginning of the line to VE cursorreads the text from VE cursor to end of linereads current linemoves VE cursor left by word and reads wordmoves VE cursor right by word and reads wordreads word currently under VE cursorsecond press spells wordthird press spells word mnemonicallyreads first line of screenreads last line of the screenreads all from VE cursor to end of screenreads application cursor positionroutes VE cursor to application cursor position

Standard Review Mode Commands (use after tapping Alt key to go intoreview mode)

Once the Alt key has been tapped, review mode is "on." The keyboard only performsVocal Eyes functions. Tap Alt or Escape to exit review mode and return toapplication cursor position and application functions.Cursoring Commands

•

Left ArrowRight ArrowHU

Up ArrowDown ArrowKJ

Ctrl Left ArrowCtrl Right Arrow

Ctrl Up ArrowCtrl Page UpCtrl Down Arrow

moves cursor to previous character and reads itmoves cursor to next character and reads itmoves cursor to previous character and reads itmoves cursor to next character and reads it

moves cursor up one line and reads itmoves cursor down one line and reads itmoves cursor up one line and reads itmoves cursor down one line and reads it

moves cursor to previous word and reads itmoves cursor to next word and reads it

moves cursor to top left of current windowmoves cursor to top left of current windowmoves cursor to first column of last line of window

Apostrophe

Alt Left Arrow

Page Up

Left Bracket

Alt Right ArrowPage DownRight BracketEnter

HomeEnd

Ctrl HomeCtrl End

moves cursor to first column of last line on window

moves cursor to first character ofcurrent line and reads it

moves cursor to first character of current lineand reads it

moves cursor to first character ofcurrent line and reads it

moves cursor to end of current line and reads itmoves cursor to end of current line and reads itmoves cursor to end of current line and reads itmoves cursor to beginning of next line and reads it

moves cursor to previous sentence and reads itmoves cursor to next sentence and reads it

moves cursor to previous paragraph and reads itmoves cursor to next paragraph and reads it

•

Other Review Mode Commands

Find Command

There are three ways to perform a search:

F (string to be searched) followed by EnterBegins search from upper left corner to lower right

F (string) followed by Greater Than (>)Begins search from cursor position to end

F (string) followed by Less Than (<)Begins search from cursor position to top

Marker Commands

M prompts for marker number to drop at cursor positionG prompts for marker to go to

Block Commands

P places a mark at the cursor positionmarks put at top left and bottom right of text to be copied

R sends data to block buffer; replaces any previously thereT sends data to block buffer; adds data to text in buffer

•

•

• Miscellaneous Commands

LVCGrave Accent

Exit Commands

EscapeAlt EscAlt X

reads line at cursortoggles between character, word or line read for arrow keyssends data directly to synthesizersends next command not as review command

exits review mode; cursor returns to application positionexits review mode; routes video cursor to review cursorexits review mode; routes video cursor to review cursor

•

Using Word Perfect 5.1 and Vocal Eyes

Reading in WordPerfect

All of the standard interactive read hot keys work. There are some additionalspecial commands in the default Vocal Eyes configuration for Word Perfect:

Alt W reads entire work area lines one through twenty-fourAlt S reads status line; this is actually line twenty-fiveCtrl A reads WordPerfect cursor positionAlt R reads entire document from the cursorPlus reads current work area

Using WordPerfect Spell Check

1. Enter Ctrl F2 to start spell option in WordPerfect.2. Select Option 3 to begin a full-document spell check.3. Once a misspelled word is highlighted on screen, use the following

commands to explore context:

Ctrl W

Ctrl LAlt 0

reads word highlighted by spell checkenter Ctrl W another time and word is spelledenter Ctrl W a third time and word is spelledmnemonicallyreads line highlighted word is inreads and spells words suggested as correct spelling

•

Using the Thesaurus

1. Place WordPerfect cursor at or in word to look up.2. Invoke the thesaurus by entering Alt Fl.3. The following commands read thesaurus columns:

Alt XAlt YAlt Z

reads first column of suggestionsreads second column of suggestionsreads third column of suggestions

Using WordPerfect Files DirectoryIf default WordPerfect colors are used for blocked text (white on red), VocalEyes will automatically read content of menu bar as it is moved by arrowkeys.

Notes:

•

•

•

Flipper (v 4.02) (DOS)

Publisher:OMNICHRON1438 Oxford StreetBerkeley, CA 94709(510) 540-6455

System Requirements:MS-DOS compatible computer and speech synthesizer

Description:Flipper is a versatile screen reading program. A screen reader is a softwareprogram which converts text from the screen to information which can bespoken by a speech synthesizer. Screen readers, primarily designed for use byblind computer users, are also useful for students with low vision and for somestudents with learning disabilities.

Flipper can be used as an auditory text editing and reading tool for studentswith learning disabilities because the program can be simplified so that only avery few easy-to-use reading commands are available.

Recommended Uses:For Students with Visual Impairments:

Flipper is useful for students with low vision as well as for students who arenon-sighted. Students requiring very large text on the screen will often bemore productive if they use a screen reader in conjunction with their textmagnification software.


Some students with learning disabilities will benefit from editing their writtendocuments by hearing what they have written. Students exhibiting thefollowing errors in written text may benefit from using a screen reader forediting purposes: semantic confusions; verb tense omissions; or omission ofmorphemic markers such as plural endings. Other students may need tohear what they have written in order to monitor the content of what they arewriting.

Basic Use:For Students with Visual Impairments:

Reading CommandsUp Arrow moves cursor directly up one line and

reads it

Retail Cost $495.00

ACT for MS-DOS 31

Down Arrow moves cursor directly down one line andreads it

Left or Right Arrow moves cursor one character to left or rightand reads it

Control Left or Right Arrow moves cursor to beginning of previous ornext word and reads it

Alt Left Arrow moves cursor to period of previoussentence and reads that sentence

Alt Right Arrow reads current or next sentence; cursor isplaced at period of sentence read.

Alt Up Arrow reads current sentence; does not movecursor

Alt Down Arrow reads from cursor to end of file -

Quick Interactive Keyboard CommandsThese commands do not move the cursor and are designed not to remove theuser's hands from basic keyboard position. All commands are prefixed by theLeft Alt key for greatest convenience, although either Alt key may be used if thekeyboard has two.

Alt U, I, 0 reads previous, current or next LINErespectively

Alt J, K, L reads previous, current or next WORDrespectively

Alt M, Comma, Period SPELL previous, current or next WORD

Alt P reads entire screen from cursor position

Alt or Control stops speech

Alt Y reads second line above cursor

Quick Interactive Special CommandsAlt H access talking Help function

Alt F "flips" to a different configuration. Twoseparate configurations of Flipper can beloaded simultaneously; the user canalternate between the two by using the Alt Fcommand (to switch between a version for a

32 ACT for MS-DOS

• spread sheet and a word processor, forexample).

Alt and a number reads a block of text which has been defined(and numbered) in the review mode; it can beaccessed and read by this Quick command.

Review Mode Entay/Exit CommandsAlt-; (Semicolon) enters review mode

C exits review mode, places cursor at beginningof last word read in review mode

Escape exits review mode, returns cursor toapplication position

Review Mode Reading Commands

•

reads previous current or next line;cursor remains at same vertical columnnumber in each line

reads previous current or next word; cursoris placed at beginning of word

reads previous current or next character

moves cursor one character to left or rightand reads that character

moves cursor directly up one character andreads that line

moves cursor and reads word above, below,before or after initial cursor position,depending on arrow key used

U,Ior0

J,KorL

M, Comma or Period

Left or Right Arrow

Up or Down Arrow

Control with arrow


Flipper now has a review mode option (Alt-Control F3) which causes Flipper tohighlight a words as it reads in review mode.

Basic Reading Commands

Up Arrow reads line above cursorDown Arrow reads line below cursor

ACT for MS-DOS 33

Left or Right ArrowControl Left or Right Arrow

reads a single characterreads word-by-word (backward orforward)

•Alt Left Arrow reads previous sentenceAlt Right Arrow reads current or next sentence

Features Necessary for Intermediate and Advanced Use:For Students with Visual Impairments:

Special Review Mode FunctionsB moves the cursor to cursor position at last exit from review

mode.

D enters Definitions menu where major changes can be made toFlipper key commands, functions and windows

E reads color enhancement (attribute) at cursor position.

F flips between primary and secondary Flipper configuration. •G "grabs" selected text for pasting with Shift 8

H enters Help mode. Use Alt Spacebar to exit Help mode.

P reads entire screen regardless of cursor position.

S supports an extensive array of text search commands.

T announces time of day if there is a clock running in thecomputer.

W sets width of screen area to be read.

X drops marker on screen

(Slash) announces position of review mode cursor

(Semi-colon) returns cursor to prior position in review mode.

Backward or Forward Cursor Motion

Preceding many standard review mode commands with a number willcause cursor motion:

34 ACT for MS-DOS

• 501 will move forward 50 words.50 u will move backward 50 words.

10 i will move the cursor to line 10.10 k will move to tenth word on the line.10 , will move to 10th character of line.

10 p will begin reading of current page starting at line 10.

Quick Cursor Motion in Review ModePreceding some standard review mode commands with special keys willresult in very specific cursor motion:

Shift U, I and 0

Shift J, K and L

Shift M and Period

will move cursor to first, middle andlast line of screen, respectively.

will move cursor to beginning, middleor end of current line, respectively.

will move cursor to beginning or end ofcurrent word, respectively.

• Special Review Mode Spelling CommandsShift Comma will spell entire current word.

Alt M, Comma, or Period will read the left, current ornext character mnemonically

Function Key Toggles in Review ModeNumerous options are easily set through using function keys bythemselves or in combination with other keys. Unless stated otherwise,these options are only available in the review mode.

Basic Toggles

Fl Automatic output

F2 Extended automatic output

P3 Non-stop review mode

F4 Autoload configurations

F5 Override all symbols on

F6 Use DOS cursor on screen•

ACT for MS-DOS 35

P7 Use margin boundaries for active screen reading area. If not on, •those defined through the W option will be used.

F8 Normal automatic output or delayed automatic output

F9 Whole keyboard echo

F10 Alphabet/word echo

Function Key Options with the Control KeyControl Fl Punctuation toggle

Control F2 Not used

Control F3 Spell everything

Control F4 Do not spell automatic output

Control F5 Count spaces when reading lines

Control F6 Count spaces when reading words

Control F7 Foreground colors On/Off

Control F8 Background colors On/Off

Control P3 Black foreground colors defined as inverse

Control F10 Speak enhancement changes

Function Key Options with the Alt KeyAlt Fl Beep when computer stops after Alt key

Alt F2 Click while screen changes

Alt F3 Cursor beeps at line change in application mode

Alt F4 Click during disk access

Alt F5 Not used

Alt F6 Not used

Alt F7 Case sensitive search options

Alt F8 Cursor options to use when aborting a paragraph read

Alt F9 Echo Shift, Alt and Control keys

ACT for MS-DOS

Alt F10 Turn on Caps Lock message

Function Key Options with the Shift KeyShift Fl Increase speech rate

Shift F2 Decrease speech rate

Shift F3 Blank announcement

Shift F4 Read line numbers in review mode

Shift F5 Caps announcement style used in read mode

Shift F6 Caps announcement style for spell mode

Shift F7 Spell part numbers which contain letters and digitsShift F8 Pass through all ASCII text to synthesizerShift F9 Read digit strings as numbers

Shift F10 Send numbers to synthesizer without interpretation

Function Key Options with Alt ControlAlt Control Fl Do not speak commands in macros

Alt Control F2 Keyboard control protection on

Alt Control F3 Highlight word in review mode (for students withlearning disabilities or low vision)

Alt Control F4 Turn off Alt number keys

Function Keys in Voice Control ModeModifying Flipper voices can be done after pressing V in review mode

Flipper uses three voices as it works: a keyboard echo voice, a commandvoice, and an automatic output voice. Parameters for each voice can beset separately, or, they can be set to be the same at all three levels.

After voice control mode is toggled on, the following function keycommands , if prefixed with a special key or not will modify voices:

Prefix ChartFunction key aloneShift plus function keyAlt plus function key

Modifies all three voicesModifies automatic output voiceModifies keyboard echo voice

ACT for MS-DOS 37

Control plus function key Modifies command voice

Fl Raise speech rate

F2 Lower speech rate

F3 Raise volume

F4 Lower volume

F5 Raise pitch

F6 Lower pitch

F7 Raise inflection of synthesizer

F8 Lower inflection of synthesizerF9 Raise an auxiliary parameter for the synthesizer

F10 Lower an auxiliary parameter for the synthesizer

Using the Help Function in Review ModeIn review mode, pressing Control and then any key when the full Helpmode is loaded results in a statement of that key function and directionsto initiate the process. With this "context sensitive" help function, theuser can learn the many options available in Flipper.

An example: pressing the V key in Review mode allows the user tochange voice options. When Flipper can access the full help mode andControl V is pressed, the following occurs:

Flipper announces, "You can use this key to change the voice of thesynthesizer . . . . "

SearchingFlipper also has a very elaborate screen search capacity. A search isinitiated by pressing the letter S in review mode. To search for a word,type in the word and then press Enter. Once the pattern to be searchedhas been defined, the following commands will begin the search:

Alt J search backwardAlt K start at top of screen and search forwardAlt L search forward

In addition to text searches, special features may also be looked for: anycapital letter, any digit, an upper left or lower right corner form symbol,enhancement attributes and others.

•

38 ACT for MS-DOS

Using Flipper and WordPerfect

Basic reading commands

•

Ctrl Down ArrowCtrl Up ArrowAlt Down ArrowCtrl BackspaceDeleteBackspace

Alt 7Alt 8

reads first sentence of next paragraphreads first sentence of previous paragraphreads to end; tap Alt again to stopdeletes and reads current worddeletes and reads current characterdeletes and reads character left of cursor

reads status linereads page number and row and column

•

Using WordPerfect Spell Check

1. Start the spell check with Control F2

2. The status line is automatically read if the WordPerfect configuration isin use.

3. Select Option 3 for whole document spell check.

4. The word highlighted by the spell check will be automatically spoken.

5. Understanding context of mispelled word:Alt K will read the wordAlt I will read the lineAlt Comma will spell the word

6. To read spell check suggestioins, go into review mode with Alt Semi-colon.

7. Enter 15i to move review cursor to line fifteen of screen.That moves the review cursor to the first line of spell check suggestions.Flipper will read the content of the line. Use the down arrow to gothrough each line of suggestions.

8. Once the word is found, exit review by pressing Escape.

9. Enter the letter of the correct word. Wordperfect corrects the word andhighlights the next word in spell check list.

ACT for MS-DOS 39

10. As the highlighted word appears on screen, Flipper will announce it.Repeat steps 5-9.

Reading the WordPerfect Directory

1. Tap the F5 key to initiate the List Files command.

2. Press Enter to bring up the directory announced by Flipper.

3. When the WordPerfect configuration is loaded, and defaultWordPerfectcolors are used, content of the highlighted is automatically read as themenu bar is moved with the arrow keys.

Reading in the Reveal Codes Window

1. Bring up the Reveal Codes Window by holding down the Alt key andpressing F3.

2. Flipper will automatically read the content of the code display whenreading with Alt I.

3. Move cursor through text using up or down arrow key. •

40 ACT for MS-DOS

Flipper (DOS)

Publisher:OMNICHRON1438 Oxford StreetBerkeley, CA 94709(510) 540-6455

System Requirements:MS-DOS compatible computer and speech synthesizerDescription:Flipper is a versatile screen reading program. A screen reader is a softwareprogram which converts text from the screen to information which can bespoken by a speech synthesizer. Screen readers, primarily designed for use byblind computer users, are also useful for students with low vision and for somestudents with learning disabilities.

Flipper can be used as an auditory text editing and reading tool for studentswith learning disabilities because the program can be simplified so that only avery few easy-to-use reading commands are available.Recommended Uses:For Students with Visual Impairments:

Flipper is useful for students with low vision as well as for students who arenon-sighted. Students requiring very large text on the screen will often bemore productive if they use a screen reader in conjunction with their textmagnification software.


Some students with learning disabilities will benefit from editing their writtendocuments by hearing what they have written. Students exhibiting thefollowing errors in written text may benefit from using a screen reader forediting purposes: semantic confusions; verb tense omissions; or omission ofmorphemic markers such as plural endings. Other students may need tohear what they have written in order to monitor the content of what they arewriting.

Basic Use:For Students with Visual Impairments:

•Reading Commands

Up Arrow moves cursor directly up one line and readsit

Retail Cost $495.00

ACT for MS-DOS 41

16/

•

Down Arrow

Left or Right Arrow

Control Left or Right Arrow

Alt Left Arrow

Alt Right Arrow

moves cursor directly down one line andreads it

moves cursor one character to left or rightand reads it

moves cursor to beginning of previous ornext word and reads it

moves cursor to period of previous sentenceand reads that sentence

reads current or next sentence; cursor isplaced at period of sentence read.

Quick Interactive Keyboard CommandsThese commands do not move the cursor and are designed not to remove theuser's hands from basic keyboard position. All commands are prefixed by theLeft Alt key for greatest convenience, although either Alt key may be used if thekeyboard has two.

Alt U, I, 0 reads previous, current or next LINErespectively

Alt J, K, L reads previous, current or next WORDrespectively

Alt M, Comma, Period SPELL previous, current or next WORD

Alt P reads entire screen from cursor position

Alt Spacebar stops speech

Alt Y reads second line above cursor

Quick Interactive Special CommandsAlt H access talking Help function

Alt F

Alt and a number

"flips" to a different configuration. Twoseparate configurations of Flipper can beloaded simultaneously; the user can alternatebetween the two by using the Alt F command(to switch between a version for a spread sheetand a word processor, for example).

reads a block of text which has been defined(and numbered) in the review mode; it can beaccessed and read by this Quick command.

•

42 ACT for MS-DOS

Review Mode Entry/Exit CommandsAlt-; (Semicolon) enters review mode

C exits review mode, places cursor at reviewmode position

PAcape exits review mode, returns cursor toapplication position

Review Mode Reading CommandsU,IorO reads previous current or next line;

cursor remains at same vertical columnnumber in each line

J, K or L reads previous current or next word; cursor isplaced at beginning of word

M, Comma or Period reads previous current or next character

Left or Right Arrow moves cursor one character to left or right andreads that character

Up or Down Arrow moves cursor directly up one character andreads that line

Control with arrow moves cursor and reads word above, below,before or after initial cursor position,depending on arrow key used

ACT for MS-DOS 43

•


The High Tech Center Training Unit has configured a version of Flipperdesigned for use by students with learning disabilities. Easy-to-use commandsin Flipper allow for several basic reading patterns. It is possible to read asingle word, a single line, a single sentence or, when in a word processingdocument, all the text on the document screen. It is also possible to readwords suggested by the spell check.

The two small files which set Flipper to work with WordPerfect are loaded in abatch file which loads Flipper and WordPerfect. When a student wants tobegin reading with Flipper, it is necessary to enter a command which turnsFlipper on. When the student is through using Flipper, entering the samecommand will turn Flipper off. A user familiar with Flipper will be able toaccess other Flipper functions through the review mode.

To Turn Flipper On:

To turn Flipper on, hold down the Alt key and press the f key. Flipper willbecome active and announce "secondary." The following commands willperform basic reading functions.

Basic Reading Commands

Up ArrowDown Arrow

Left or Right ArrowControl Left or Right Arrow

reads line above cursorreads line below cursor

reads a single characterreads word-by-word (backward orforward)

Alt Left Arrow reads previous sentenceAlt Right Arrow reads current or next sentence

Reading the Spell Check Suggestions: Alt and a number (0.9)

Once the spell check word suggestion window is on the screen, it is possible toread the words suggested by holding down the Alt key and pressing a numberfrom 0 through 9. The first word suggested by the spell check is read byholding down the Alt key and pressing the number 1. Holding down the Altkey and pressing 2 will read the second word, etc. The command Alt Zero (0)causes Flipper to read all word suggestions from choice J forward (if there arethat many suggestions).

44 ACT for MS-DOS

Features Necessary for Intermediate and Advanced Use:For Students with Visual Impairments:

Special Review Mode Functions

T announces time of day if there is a clock running in the computer.

B moves the cursor to cursor position at last exit from review mode.

S supports an extensive array of text search commands.

E reads color enhancement (attribute) at cursor position.

P reads entire screen regardless of cursor position.

W sets width of screen area to be read.

F flips between primary and secondary Flipper configuration.

H enters Help mode. Use Alt Spacebar to exit Help mode.

Semi-colon returns cursor to prior position in review mode.

ekward or Motion

Preceding many standard review mode commands with a number willcause cursor motion:

501 will move forward 50 words.50 u will move backward 50 words.

10 i will move the cursor to line 10.10 k will move to tenth word on the line.10 , will move to 10th character of line.

10 p will begin reading of current page starting at line 10.

Quick Cursor Motion in Review ModePreceding some standard review mode commands with special keys willresult in very specific cursor motion:

Shift U, I and 0 will move cursor to first, middle and lastline of screen, respectively.

Shift J, K and L will move cursor, to beginning, middle orend of current line, respectively.

ACT for MS-DOS 45

Shift M and Period will move cursor to beginning or end ofcurrent word, respectively.

Special Review Mode Spelling CommandsShift Comma will spell entire current word.

Alt M, Comma or Period will read the Left, current or nextcharacter in military alphabet.

Function Key Toggles in Review ModeNumerous options are easily set through using function keys bythemselves or in combination with other keys. Unless stated otherwise,these options are only available in the review mode.

Basic Toggles

Fl Automatic output

F2 Count spaces when reading words

F3 Read word or line when using Up or Down arrow keys

F4 Read numbers as separate digits or as numbers

F5 Announce enhancement (attribute) changes (further Controlledby Control F7 or Control F8)

FB Read graphics symbols. An elaborate advanced option exits.

F7 Use margin boundaries for active screen reading area. If not on,those defined through the W option will be used.

F8 Caps announcement for all reading tasks

F9 Whole keyboard echo

F10 Alphabet/word echo

Function Key Options with the Control KeyControl Fl Punctuation toggle

Control F2 Spell everything

Control F3 Read color enhancement defined by Alt Underscore

Control F4 Automatic Lightbar mode

46 ACT for MS-DOS

Control F5 Announce jump or no after arrow key use

Control F6 Forced Lightbar mode

Control F7 Foreground colors On/Off

Control F8 Background colors On/Off

Control F9 Click

Control F10 Cursor beeps

Function Key Options with the Alt KeyAlt Fl Extended or normal automatic output

Alt F2 Count spaces when reading lines

Alt F3 Silent after Arrow keys

Alt F4 Case sensitive search

Alt F5 Keyboard echo off for special keys (Ctrl, Alt, Ret, Shft)

Alt F6 Keyboard echo off for Arrow and Backspace keys

Alt F7 Return announcement in block read

Alt F8 Pitch change announcement for capitals ("cap" is default)

Alt F9 Hardware cursor toggle (used in Lotus 123)

Alt F10 Force enhancement cursor (use with WP spell check)

Function Key Options with the Shift KeyShift Fl Increase speech rate

Shift F2 Decrease speech rate

Shift F3 Blank announcement

Shift F4 Beep when ready (output silenced; program ready)

Shift F5 Beep when watched line changes (use w/ Backslash option)

Shift F6 Read area of screen related to watched line in above option

ACT for MS-DOS 47

Function Key Options with Alt ControlAlt Control Fl Silent Autokey

Alt Control F2 Change Quick key prefix from Alt to Control

Alt Control F3 Turn off Quick mode

Alt Control F4 Turn off Alt number keys

Function Keys in Voice Control ModeThe following commands take effect after the user has pressed the V keyin Review mode (activating the Voice Command level)

Fl Raise speech rate

F2 Lower speech rate

F5 Raise pitch

F6 Lower pitch

P7 Raise inflection for Artic; change voice for DEC

F8 Lower inflection for Artic; change voice for DEC

F9 Raise volume

F10 Lower volume

Using the Help Function in Review ModeIn review mode, pressing Control and then any key when the full Helpmode is loaded results in a statement of that key function and directionsto initiate the process. With this "context sensitive" help function, theuser can learn the many options 6■Milable in Flipper.

An example: pressing the V key in Review mode allows the user tochange voice options. When Flipper can access the full help mode andControl V is pressed, the following occurs:

Flipper announces, "You can use this key to change the voice of thesynthesizer . . . . "

SearchingFlipper also has a very elaborate screen search capacity. A- search isinitiated by pressing the letter S in review mode. To search for a word,

•

•

ACT for MS-DOS

type in the word and then press Enter. Once the pattern to be searchedhas been defined, the following commands will begin the search:

Alt J search backwardAlt K start at top of screen and search forwardAlt L search forward

In addition to text searches, special features may also be looked for: anycapital letter, any digit, an upper left or lower right corner form symbol,enhancement attributes and others.

ACT for MS-DOS 49

41

•

50 ACT for MS-DOS

•

Flipper for WordPerfect 5.0/5.1

IntroductionThe filename for this High Tech Center Training Unit (HTCTU) configurationof Flipper for WordPerfect (5.0/5.1) is called wpnew.flp, and is loaded as asecondary configuration. The default start.flp version of Flipper is loaded asthe primary configuration. Use Alt F to switch between configurations. TheHTCTU configuration has the following default settings and windowdefinitions.

Flipper Review Mode TogglesFl Display Echo is turned off

F9 Keyboard Echo is turned off

Control F6 Automatic light bar mode is off(Turn on when reading WordPerfect directory.)

Alt F10 Forced inverse video tracking is off.(Turn on when using spell check function.)

Shift F5 Beep when changes occur in watched area ison (Turn off if no beep is desired when statusline [line 25] changes.)

Windows Defined1 Defined as line 25, columns 1-80.

2 Defined as lines 24 and 25.

3 Defined as line 6 to line 24, columns 2-26.(This is the first column of thesaurus window.)

4 Defined as line 6 to line 24, columns 28-52.(This is the second column of thesauruswindow.)

5 Defined as line 6 to line 24, columns 54-78.(This is the third column of thesauruswindow.)

ACT for MS-DOS 51

•

How to Hear Contents of Status LineThis version of Flipper is set to beep when line 25 changes (the status line). Ifthis toggle is on (Shift 5 in review mode), any change to status line is indicatedby a brief beep. Pressing Alt 1 will always read the contents of line 25 withoutmoving the cursor.

Sometimes it will be necessary to read both lines 24 and 25 if there is a two-linedisplay of command options. Pressing Alt 2 will read the contents of theselines without moving the cursor.

How to Read Contents of Spell Check WindowUsing Forced Enhancement Cursor Option (Alt F10 toggle)

Set inverse video colors for word highlighted by spell check

NOTE: In order for Flipper to successfully locate inverse video on the screen,the highlight for the misspelled word must contain black text on a greybackground. If WordPerfect is using another set of colors, it is necessary touse the WordPerfect Set-Up menu and do the following:

Press Shift Fl to open the Set-Up menu, then 2, then 1, then 1. Move the cursorto the Blocked text option: press A to set Black for foreground; move the cursorright to the Background column and press H to set the background (grey).Press F7 until back at the main file level. Default WordPerfect colors are greytext on a red background (settings H,E on color settings menu).

Invoke the spell check function with Control F2. Check, using Alt 1, to selectwhich spell check option is desired. Enter the number of the appropriateselection and press Enter.

Wait for WordPerfect to put up word suggestions. To check what word hasbeen searched, go into the Review mode with Alt-Semicolon. WhenWordPerfect is operating with inverse video colors for blocked text, and Flipperis using a forced enhancement cursor (Alt F10 in review mode), the cursorautomatically moves to the word highlighted by the spell check when reviewmode is entered. Read the word using standard review mode commands, andthen perform the following search to read the words suggested as possiblecorrect spellings: search for the capital A. which begins the word search listby entering S, then a., Enter. Read through the suggestions a word or line at atime.

If the forced enhancement cursor is not being used (when Alt F10 is set fornormal cursor), read the words suggested by the spell check as describedbelow:

Enter S for search, Control I (which tells Flipper to search for inversevideo), Alt K (which begins a search from top of screen), Return. The

52 ACT for MS-DOS

cursor will land at the first letter of the word highlighted as misspelled.Read the word with standard review mode commands. Then perform asearch for the A. which appears on the word suggestion line by pressingS, to invoke the search, then a. then Enter. Flipper performs a non-case-sensitive search unless this function has been toggled on (Alt F4 toggle).

The word selection list always appears on line 15 at column 3.

How to Hear Contents of Thesaurus WindowTo activate the thesaurus in WordPerfect, place the cursor under the word tobe searched and enter Alt Fl. The thesaurus window will appear on screen.This window is composed of three vertical columns. In the High Tech Centerversion of Flipper, window 3, 4, and 5 are configured to match these areas.Pressing the Alt key plus the number of the column window number readsthat column and does not move the cursor:

Pressing Alt 3 causes Flipper to read the contents of the left thesaurus column.Pressing Alt 4 causes Flipper to read the middle thesaurus column. PressingAlt 5 reads the last column.

Pressing Alt 1 always reads the bottom status line without moving the cursor.Use this command to determine command options available when using thethesaurus.

How to Read the File DirectoryIt is easy to read the WordPerfect directory. Go into review mode and toggle onthe automatic light bar mode (Control F6); exit review mode (Esc). Flipper willnow read the contents of the highlighted bar of the menu directory when thearrow keys are used. Toggle the forced inverse video cursor option off afterusing the directory to return Flipper to normal cursor tracking.

How to Read the Reveal Codes WindowTo read in the Reveal Codes window, make sure that the forced enhancementcursor option is toggled on and WordPerfect is using inverse video colors (A,H)for Blocked text on the color menu. Invoke the Reveal Codes window bypressing Alt F3. Flipper automatically reads the content of a highlighted codedisplay when reading interactively at the line level, e.g., with Alt K or witharrow keys.

ACT for MS-DOS 53

54 ACT for MS-DOS

•

Sound-Proof (DOS)

Publisher: Retail Cost $1,500.00HumanWare, Inc.6245 King RoadLoomis, CA 95650(916) 652-7253


Description:Sound-Proof is a combination of hardware and software. A board-level speechsynthesizer is driven by the Sound-Proof screen reading program. Designedspecifically for persons with learning disabilities, Sound-Proof enables theusers to review and proofread work using sound. In this way, students cancatch errors by hearing them. Sound-Proof works transparently with wordprocessing and a variety of other text based applications.

Recommended Uses:Sound-Proof is recommended for any sighted person needing or wanting to editdocuments by ear.

Basic Use:Sound-Proof is loaded prior to the application with which it is to be used.

1. Pressing the Shift Key and Space bar will activate Sound-Proof anddisplay a menu of options at the bottom of the screen.

2. The command set is simple and straight forward: select the desiredreading Mode (e.g., w for Word, s for Sentence, p for Paragraph) andbegin document review by pressing the Right Arrow key command.

3. Pressing the Space Bar will cause Sound-Proof to read from the Sound-Proof cursor highlight to the end of the screen. Pressing the Space Baragain will stop Sound-Proof at any point when it is reading.

Basic Commands:

Shift Space Bar - Activates/Deactivates Sound-ProofW - Word ModeS - Sentence ModeP - Paragraph ModeDown Arrow - Read Current Word, Sentence or Paragraph

ACT for MS-DOS 55

•Left Arrow - Read Previous WordRight Arrow - Read Next WordUp Arrow - Read Previous Text UnitDown Arrow - Read Next Text UnitShift-Arrow Keys - Silent NavigationSpace Bar - Start/Stop SpeakingHome Home - Move reading cursor to top of screenSlash (/ on alpha keyboard) - Tap once to read current word

- Tap twice to spell current wordQ - Quit Sound-Proof, return to application

Sound-Proof with a Mouse:

It is possible to use Sound-Proof with a three button mouse. To use a mousewith Sound-Proof, load the mouse driver before Sound-Proof. To use a mousewith the application program, load the mouse driver after Sound-Proof.

Notes:Sound-Proof is, by far, the simplest system for auditory text editing on the PC.Sound-Proof operates in a kind of permanent review mode similar to thereview mode used by screen-reading systems for blind computer users.Extensive reading capability is provided in the review mode, but Sound-Proofmust be exited before text editing can take place. For ease of text editing, theprogram will automatically place the word processing cursor at the point inthe document where the reading cursor was located when Sound-Proof wasexited.

The text and background colors of the reading cursor can be selected toenhance visual tracking. Extensive adjustments are provided for readingspeed and voice pitch. The speech synthesizer provides very accurate wordpronunciation (superior to DECtalk in some areas) and, although somewhatrobotic in tone, is highly understandable.

Individual user preference profiles (up to 10) can be saved and recalled for easeof use. Sound-Proof can be used in combination with Turbo Lightning and/orLanguage Master.

The "hot-key" combination used to invoke Sound-Proof once it has been loadedinto memory can be altered to avoid conflict with the word processor or otherprograms which may be resident in memory.

•

56 ACT for MS-DOS

AccessDOS 1.1 (DOS )

Publisher: Retail Cost $Distributed by various manufacturers. See notes for how to obtain it.

System Requirements:Current version of MS-DOS

Description:AccessDOS provides some accommodations for some of the most commondifficulties that people with physical disabilities encounter in using thecomputer's input devices--that is the keyboard and the mouse. It also canassist some people with hearing impairments.

Recommended Uses:AccessDOS provides keyboard access for persons with physical disabilities.Audio alerts are converted to visual feedback for persons with hearingimpairments.

Basic Use:1. Type "ados" to start the program. You can type a slash-A (/A) or slash-

X (/X) after the "ados." to install AccessDOS with whatever settings youlast saved.

2. Move the highlight, using the up or down arrow key, until it rests onthe command you wish to adjust, then press the enter key.

3. Make the adjustments of your choice using the arrow keys then pressEnter.

4. Choose Install/Run from the File menu to install AccessDOS with thenew changes.

There are three ways to get on-screen help (instructions) in AccessDOS:

1. Go to the help menu. When you first enter AccessDOS, you will see thefile, adjust and help menus. If you pull down the help menu, you willsee a list of the functions of AccessDOS. Select the one you want, andhelp information for that function will appear on the screen.

2. Press the Fl key. You can press the Fl key at any time while you are inAccessDOS to see help information about the functions with which youare currently working.

3. Watch the hint line. At the very bottom of the screen is a hint line. Thisline always tells you what action you are ready to take. The hint lineappears for all choices on all menus.

Intermediate Use:To make AccessDOS install or load automatically each time the computer isrestarted, you should insert the command ADOS /A into your autoexec.batfile. If you are using a mouse, ADOS /A should be located after thecommand to load the mouse driver.

Notes:AccessDOS is available free from IBM by calling 800-426-7282. It is alsoavailable from Microsoft Download Service at 206-936-6735. The file todownload is the DOS Supplemental Disk. This file is also available atftp://ftp.microsoft.com/Softlib/MSLFILES/SUP622.EXE.

•

•

Filch (DOS)

• Publisher:Kinetic Designs14231 AnatevkaOlalla, WA 98359(206) 857-7943System Requirements:MS-DOS compatible computer

Description:Filch provides a variety of ways to modify the operation of the standardcomputer keyboard. For example, the key-repeat rate can be slowed or stopped,special purpose keys (Control, Alt, and Shift) can be electronically held down,and an electronic "key-guard" effect can delay keyboard response until a keyhas been selected and held down for a specified period of time. The programworks transparently with the majority of standard computer applications aswell as other assistive software.

Recommended Uses:The program is recommended for use by persons who experience difficultyusing an unmodified keyboard. Typically, Filch is recommended for personswith mild to moderate hand tremor, persons who type with a single pointingdevice (single digit, headstick, or mouthstick), and persons with mild tomoderate spasticity. It can also be used by low-vision or blind individuals toprevent unwanted key repetitions.

Basic Use:To begin using Filch, at the DOS prompt type filch and press the Enter key.Filch will load and display a menu of configuration options.

Filch settings can only be set at the command line. To set Filch parameters,type filch at the drive prompt and then list the parameters to be used. Tospecify the parameters, follow this pattern:

filch Ix# (where x represents the parameter letter and # representsthe numerical value of the parameter letter)

The Slash character always precedes a parameter letter. The parameter letteris always followed by a value, usually a number. Any Filch parameters can beloaded in at one time and need not be listed in any particular order.

Retail Cost $100.00

ACT for MS-DOS 57

A typical selection of parameters might look like this:

C>filch /t100 /ml Irl /c70

This configures Filch to:•stop the automatic key repeat function for a time,•have special keys latch when struck and then release after next

character is entered,•place a small window which shows status of latched keys at

row 1, column 70

Pressing the Enter key at this point will complete the loading process. WhenFilch has already been loaded into memory and is reloaded to modify or add tocurrent settings, the program will display a message. If this prompt appears,press the Spacebar to complete the loading process.

Basic Filch Commands

The following parameters are those most frequently used.

/t# The /t# parameter controls the length of time a key must be helddown before the automatic key repeat function begins. The rangefor this value is 1 - 127. The larger the number value listed afterthe /t# the longer the time before the automatic key repeatfunction occurs. The value /t100 is commonly used.

/s# The /s# parameter controls the rate at which the automatic keyrepeat occurs. A value of /s10 or /s15 may eliminate the need tostop the key repeat function. This setting is useful for studentswho exhibit slow visual tracking abilities.

/d# The /d# parameter (delay parameter) controls the length of time akey must be depressed before the action registers as a keystroke.This is a useful option for users with poor muscle control whomay brush against extra keys as they use the keyboard. Thesmallest value, Idl, usually is enough to prevent excesskeystrokes.

This option may prove frustrating for someone who tends to typewith near normal accuracy and should be used only for thosestudents who consistently brush extra keys. Re-evaluate studentsusing the Id# value after a month of regular computer use to see ifcoordination has improved. Typing speed will increase if the /d#option can be removed.

/m# The Im# or mode parameter has a range of 1 -4 and invokesdifferent styles of key latching so that multiple keystroke entriescan be performed. Generally, the /m1 value is the only one used.

58 ACT for MS-DOS

/m 1 This latches the Control, Alt, Left and Right Shift keys. Thekey will remain latched until an alpha or numeric key ispressed. In this mode, the computer can be restarted bypressing Control, Alt and Del keys sequentially rather thansimultaneously. This is the most frequently used Modeparameter.

/r#, /c# The /r and /c parameters are used when a Mode parameter hasbeen selected. The /r and /c values represent row and columnindicators which can be used to position a window showing thestatus of the latching keys. The computer screen is divided into 25rows (vertical axis) of 80 columns (horizontal axis) each.

The /r parameter indicates which row to place the windowon: for example, /r23 is near the bottom of the screen

The //c# parameter indicates which column to place thewindow on: for example, /c34 is near the middle of thescreen.

hit /c1# The /rl and /c1 parameters are row and column indicators forplacement of a status window which indicates what speciallocking keys are latched: e.g., Caps Lock, Num Lock, ScrollLock. Again, placement of this window will depend upon whichprogram is being used. (note that the second character of eachparameter is the letter 1, not the number one)

Notes:

How To Change Parameter ValuesParameter values may be changed from the command line without restartingthe computer.

To completely disable a parameter, enter that parameter with a value of zero,e.g., /d0. This will have the effect of nullifying a prior /d# setting.

To Disengage FilchFilch may be toggled off at any time by pressing Alt Escape. To toggle Filchback on, enter Alt Escape again, or press Alt three times in succession.

How to Increase Cursor Navigation Speed When /t or /s Values Used(for students who must use single key access)

Rapid cursor navigation movement usually done by holding down an arrowkey is not possible if a /t# or Is# value is used. However, Filch has a machineswitch parameter (/pc) which reinstates rapid cursor movement from thearrow keys on an expanded keyboard. This option is not compatible with the/d# value. When the /pc option is used, the Control and Alt keys on the right •side of the alpha keyboard are disabled; the upper six

ACT for MS-DOS

keys of the middle bank are also disabled, but the four arrow keys move thecursor rapidly through the text as if Filch were not installed.

This command switch setting speeds up editing for students who use a singlefinger, or head stick or mouth stick to enter keystrokes.

Location Of Status Window PositionWhen a latching mode (/ml) is installed, status windows should be used sothat it is easy to see what keys are currently latched. Below is a suggestedplacement for latching and locking status windows in a WordPerfectenvironment. These values do not interfere with the menu or command lineprompts.

/r24 /c77 /r123 c177

Filch And Application Cursor ControlIf an application program has a cursor speed control setting, this option mustbe disabled for Filch to work effectively. Filch must be able to control keyboardoutput.

Instructions for disabling the cursor control function in WordPerfect follow:

It is necessary to set cursor speed to Normal. To do this, access theWordPerfect Setup menu with Shift-F1, select item 2, Cursor Speed, and thenselect option 6, Normal cursor speed. Exit WordPerfect so that it permanentlyinstalls this cursor setting as one of its standard set-up parameters. Thismust be done prior to loading Filch with WordPerfect.

60 ACT for MS-DOS

HandiWORD v. 3.0 (DOS )

Publisher: Retail Cost $295.00

Microsystems Software, Inc.600 Worcester RoadFramingham, MA 01701(508) 626-8511


Description:HandiWORD is a statistically weighted word predictor which can savekeyboard input time. HandiWORD learns what words are used most often andadjusts itself to predict those words first. The more HandiWORD is used, themore it learns to "think" like the user. HandiWORD will co-exist with otherapplications, providing keystroke equivalents that are transparent to mostprograms.

In addition to the extensive dictionary that is provided with HandiWORD, theuser can add words and remove words. HandiWORD even allows the user tocreate "application specific" word prediction libraries. For example, onedictionary can be used when writing letters and another when using technicalcomputer terms.

This new version of HandiWORD preserves the features of the 2.0 version andadds the following features:

• Dictionaries can now hold up to 7000 words• The Dictionary can reside in extended memory (EMS)• The user can select from four positions for the word prediction set:

Line 1Line 25Line 26in a vertical Drop Box at the application cursor

Recommended Uses:HandiWORD reduces time of text entry for persons with motor disabilities. Itmay also be practical for individuals with severe spelling difficulties byproviding word choices already spelled correctly.

Basic Use:The following is a brief description of basic HandiWORD functions, how to usethem, and a list of command switch options which control the wayHandiWORD will operate.

ACT for MS-DOS 61

How to Use The Word Prediction FunctionThe program places a word suggestion line across the screen. The earlyversion of HandiWORD places the line at the top of the screen; the currentversion allows the user to place this horizontal line on any line on the screen.A vertical word suggestion display is not an available option.With no keystrokes currently entered the default display line contains wordendings and common punctuation marks. (The default number of suggestionsdisplayed is 9, but it is possible to re-configure HandiWORD so fewer selectionsare offered.)

As soon as the first keystroke of a word to be typed is entered, the HandiWORDstatus line changes and is filled with a list of nine words beginning with thefirst letter of the word being typed. The user then selects the number in front ofthe desired word, the word is automatically completed, and the cursor isplaced one space beyond the word completed.

It is possible to add a suffix to the word just completed by pressing one of thenumbered selections on the default status line. HandiWORD automaticallymoves the cursor back one space, adds the suffix and then (once again) placesthe cursor one space beyond the word just completed.

If the desired word does not appear after the first keystroke is entered,HandiWORD continues to change its status line display to match the sequenceof letters entered. This will occur until the phrase "no matching words foundin the dictionary" appears.

How to Add to HandiWORD •If a frequently used word is not in the HandiWORD dictionary, type the wordand press Control Tab. The word suggestion line disappears and the replaceline appears. The replace line contains the following text: Add W/E?. Select W(for "word") and the word is automatically added to HandiWORD. Press theSpacebar to continue typing.

How to Use the Text Expansion FunctionIn addition to adding words, it also is possible to enter abbreviations whichstand for phrases. It is possible to enter the letters "htc" and have themautomatically expand to the phrase "High Tech Center for the Disabled." Allabbreviations are user-defined. A total of 1,500 characters may be included inone expansion. The text expansion capability will also support macros forprogram keyboard commands. Text entry time can be further reduced byconsolidating frequently used multiple keystroke program commands into onemacro.

Adding a PhraseType a two or three letter sequence which represents the phrase to be added toHandiWORD. The abbreviation should not be a word and should be in lowercase only, and may contain more than the two or three letters suggested in theabove example. Press Control Tab. The replace line occurs with the followingphrase: Add W/E? Select E, and enter the exact phrase to be added and then

62 ACT for MS-DOS

press Return. The abbreviation and phrase are automatically added toHandiWORD. To insert the phrase into a document, type the abbreviation andselect it from the word suggestion line.

•

Other Commands

Control-Shift L Move prediction lineControl-Shift S Save current dictionary file

Deleting a Wrong Selection—the Oops KeyIf a wrong number is selected and an incorrect choice appears on the screen,and if no other text has been added, pressing the Zero (0) key will remove theselection. The entire word or expansion will be deleted.

Command to speed up word selectionPressing the Semi-colon after the first letter of a word has been entered willcause the contents of the word suggestion line to scroll. In this way, it issometimes possible to reduce the amount of time it takes for a word to appear.

To Turn off the HandiWORD DisplayTo de-activate the HandiWORD display, use the default command Left Control-Spacebar. To return the display, enter this toggle command again.

Command Line OptionsThere are a number of options which can be set by the command line. Theformat for a command line option is to precede the letter option by a slash:e.g., hword/k+. There is no limit to the number of command options loaded inat one time. It is not necessary to remove HandiWORD from memory beforere-configuring it; the new values will be in place and all other options remainunchanged. A list of the most useful options appears below.

/Cs,w,b Color (hex) s=select #; w=word; b=box

/D(dict) Select dictionary file; e.g., (/Dhistory.dct)

/E Do not use EMS for dictionary.

/F(+/-) Force frequency update off/on

/H Don't scan high memory for HandiWORD

/K(+/-) Numerics from KeyboardThe default setting is /K- which allows HandiWORD to respond to wordselection numbers from the standard keyboard. Using /K+ instructsHandiWORD to respond only to numbers from the numeric keypad.

/L(location) Location of word list: T=Top; B=Bottom; C=Cursor; X=Extra

/M(size) Reserve space for added words

•ACT for MS-DOS 63

/P PermanentUsing this option in the command line permanently configures HandiWORDand it will maintain switch settings in place when the /P option was invoked.

/Q Quiet load (no sign-on)

/R(0-99) Re-WriteUsing this function causes HandiWORD to keep track of frequency of wordsused and place those words used most frequently at the top of the word list.The default option is /R1 which instructs HandiWORD to update its dictionaryafter each word selection. Using a default of /R6 would cause the update tooccur after every sixth word has been selected. To disable the dictionaryupdate function, just use /RO.

It is suggested by the company that this rewrite (or learn) option be turned offafter two or three months of HandiWORD use. In this way the user comes toknow exactly what keystrokes comprise most frequently used word, e.g., cr2would always be crystal.

/U Unload HandiWORDThis command removes HandiWORD from memory if loaded last.

hword? HelpTyping hword? at the drive prompt will list the current options in use byHandiWORD.

Notes:

64 ACT for MS-DOS

•

Introduction to Batch Files

A batch file is an ASCII text file containing a list of things for the computer todo. Batch files can only be created, modified or saved using the DOS textformat of your word processor or text editor.

There are two types of batch files. The first is an automatically executing batchfile which is always named autoexec.bat. The computer's operating systemlooks for the existence of the autoexec.bat file upon start-up. If the file is found,its contents are automatically executed. Thus, the file name autoexec.bat.

Another type of batch file (and for our purposes, the most usual for students inHigh Tech Centers) simply contains the file extension .bat, which can beaccessed by the user when desired. A batch file can be on the hard drive or ona floppy disk.

Batch files are analogous to recipes. Each batch file contains the softwareingredients which create an appropriate access environment for an individualstudent with a disability. Batch files allow environments to be tailored to theprecise access requirements of a particular student with a particular set ofneeds.

Batch files provide the ultimate in portable access. If the commands to executea student's entire access library can be established on a single floppy disk, thatstudent will have the ability to use computer resources anywhere on thecampus. (Provided the access software is installed on those computers.) Thedegree of access inherent in a batched access system is one of the hallmarks ofthe High Tech Center's approach to providing enhanced use of computers bystudents with disabilities.

As with most things, the key to success in using batch files is early planning.To begin, determine which access software the student will require. Next,decide what start-up values to those pieces of software should be employed.Once the appropriate configuration has been determined, creating a batch fileis simply a process of listing those programs in their correct order and withthe appropriate start-up values. Personalized software start-up settings needto be set only once. Should further adjustments to the start-up values benecessary, modifications can easily be made to the batch file.

For example, a batch file for "John" on a floppy disk (to be loaded from the A:drive) called john.bat can look like this:

C:filch /t100lightA:C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

ACT for MS-DOS 65

The following explains the functions of the elements above:

C: - Logs onto the hard diskfilch /t100 - Loads Filch with a typematic

parameterlight - Loads TurboLightningA : - Logs back onto the student data diskC: \wp51\wp/nk - Loads WordPerfect; files automatically

saved to the student data disk

These programs would load and create the appropriate assistive technologyenvironment which allows John to effectively use the computer for wordprocessing. "John" has slow manual responses and frequently is unable totake his finger off a key in time to avoid registering a second keystroke. Heneeds to use Filch configured to delay the automatic key repeat function.Turbo Lighting is employed to compensate for John's difficulties with correctspelling and WordPerfect is used as a word processor. (Note: the Ink extensionafter WordPerfect tells the program that it will be sharing memory 'with othersoftware; in this case, Filch and Turbo Lightning.)

To activate the file john.bat, it is only necessary to type the file name, john, atthe A:> . DOS prompt and press Enter. This begins the automatic loadingprocess.

Note: DOS text files (also called ASCII text files) do not contain invisiblecharacters, formatting codes, or other artifacts specific to a particular wordprocessor.

SAMPLE BATCH FILES

An important consideration when assembling any batch file is the order inwhich programs are to be loaded into memory. This is not an arbitraryarrangement. In many instances, failure to load programs in proper ordercan result in system crashes or faulty operation of access software. Thefollowing is a list of various batch file configuration options which have beendeveloped by the High Tech Center over the last several years. They are by nomeans the only possible combinations; they do, however, work.

1. Floppy Disk Hard Disk

light C:envi f lightC: \ wp51 \ wp/nk envi f

A:C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

66 ACT for MS-DOS

This is a standard batch file for a learning disabled student or anyone wishingto work with Turbo Lightning running with WordPerfect.

•

ACT for MS-DOS 67

2. Floppy Disk

flipperC: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

Hard Disk

C:FlipperA:C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

This file for a learning disabled student provides spoken text output for reviewpurposes because it loads in a screen reader, Flipper.


zoomtext C:light zoomtextcursor /aa lightC: \ wp51 \ wp/nk cursor /aa

A:C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

This file loads in Zoomtext, Turbo Lightning, a large cursor and then the wordprocessor. This configuration might be used by a student with low vision. Thecursor program must be loaded in after Turbo Lightning.


zoomtext C:cursor /aa zoomtextC:\wp51/wpp/nk light

cursor /aaA:C: \ wp5 1 \ wpp/nk

This file is similar to that in #3, but Publishers Powerpak (wpp/nk) has beenadded and Turbo Lightning is not included. The student is now able to havelarge print hard copy on a laser printer or 24 pin dot matrix printer.


flipper C:filch /t100 flipperC: \ wp51 \ wp/nk filch/t100

A:C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

68 ACT for MS-DOS

This is a typical file for a blind student: Flipper, the screen reader, is loadedin, then Filch with a parameter to eliminate unwanted duplicate keystrokesand then the wordprocessor. This combination requires the availability of aDECtalk or other speech synthesizer.


zoomtext C:flipper zoomtextcursor /aa flipperC: cursor /aawp/nk A :

C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

This configuration provides talking large print which may be of value for lowvision and/or learning disabled students.

7. Hard Drive

C:filch /m1 /r24 /c15 /r124 /c123lightenvi bmr/q

This batch file is designed for a student with an orthopedic disability whichprevents two keys from being held down at the same time. Filch is givenseveral operating parameters and then the remaining programs are loaded bythe batch file.

The /ml parameter invokes mode 1, a latch once and release state for allspecial keys (Control, Alt, Shift) so that multiple keystroke commands may bemade; a status window is placed on the bottom line and indicates the latchedstatus of the Control, Alt and Shift keys; another status window is placednearly adjacent to the first--this window indicates the status of latching keys:e.g., NumLock, Scroll Lock;

Turbo Lightning is loaded and configured for MultiMate, the environmentwhich works with MindReader. MindReader loads in without the appearanceof the shareware screen; the /q tells MindReader not to begin with itsshareware screen.

ACT for MS-DOS 69


filch /ml /r0 /c70 Irl 3 /c170 C:C: filch /m1 /r24 /c77/r123 /c177light lightA: A:C: \ wp51 \ wp/n.k C: \ wp51 \ wp/nk

This batch file also is for someone with an orthopedic disability. The keyboardrequirements are the same (i.e., assistance in making multiple keystrokecommands) as above, but in this case the individual will be working withTurbo Lightning and WordPerfect.

9. Floppy Disk

filch /ml /r24 /c15 /r124 /c123 /dlmr/q

This example is not substantially different from #7 except for the addition of/d1 which sets up a keyboard delay factor so that keys brushed before the targetkeystroke will not register.

Note:Certain combinations of access software require more disk storage space thanis available on a floppy disk, therefore, they can only be configured on harddrive systems.

BUILDING BATCH FILES

Making a Batch File for 'Susan"

Note: In this exercise, the student data disk is always in the A: drive

1. Put floppy in the A: drive.

2. Open WordPerfect• a blank document screen appears

3. Type in the content of the batch file, beginning at the first line of the documentand press Enter at the end of each line:

c:\filch/t100a:c:\wP51\wPinkc:Vdch/t0

4. Save the file as a DOS text file (Control-F5,1,1,).

•

70 ACT for MS-DOS

• j5. Name the file a:susan.bat, and press Enter.

• This batch file loads Filch with the automatic key repeat rate modified;WordPerfect is loaded so that whenever Susan saves a file, the fileautomatically be placed on the data disk in the A: drive. Filch values areremoved, although the program still remains in memory. Drive A:remains as the active drive.

• To use this batch file, Susan inserts her data disk into the A: drive. Shelogs to the A: drive (if necessary) by entering a: and pressing Enter. ThenSusan types: Susan and presses Enter. The programs loadautomatically.

•

ACT for MS-DOS 71

• Curriculum

About the Adapted Computer Technology CurriculumAttached is curriculum for five different classes which can be offered throughthe Adapted Computer Technologies Component of the High Tech Center. Thefive classes are listed below.

1. Computer Access Evaluation

2. Adapted Keyboarding

3. Computer Access I

4. Computer Access II

5. Computer Access Projects

Taken in the order listed, they can be seen as a sequence, but they need not be.Computer Access I could be the first course a student takes.

Curriculum Structure

The courses are designed to allow for flexibility in managing student flowthrough the curriculum. Typically students are referred to the High TechCenter by other instructors and counselors; typically an interview with thestudent will reveal to the instructor if the student is a candidate for theEvaluation and Keyboarding courses or a candidate for Computer Access I.

The first two courses listed above, Computer Access Evaluation and AdaptedKeyboarding, can easily serve as filters and proving grounds for students whomay be questionable candidates for High Tech Center Courses. At the sametime, these courses provide useful time to assess involved students and providea means for developing keyboarding skills before students actually beginworking on word processing tasks.

Computer Access Evaluation

This course can be structured in two ways: it can be set up as a fixed meetingtime with a student over a period of weeks, or it can be done in a time-intensivefashion. The structure is left up to the college and the specialist who will bedoing the evaluations.

Not all students need to take this class. This course is primarily designed toallow for assessment of severely involved students; a learning disabled student

ACT for MS-DOS 73

who only needs to use a spelling check program as an access tool would not bean appropriate candidate for this class.

This course may be taken concurrently with the keyboarding class.

Alktpied.Ke3kaarding

Many students come to High Tech Centers with poor keyboarding skills. As ageneral rule, it is recommended that students be referred to mainstreamtyping classes to learn keyboarding skills. This course is designed for thosestudents who cannot function productively in mainstream typing courses.

This is not seen as a co-requisite for Computer Access I if students haveinadequate typing skills. For such students it should be a PRE-requisite. Inthat way, student participation in Computer Access I is not hampered by lackof knowledge of the keyboard.

Experience has shown that simultaneously attempting to master keyboarding,an access technology and word processing is frequently too much for studentsto assimilate in a productive manner.

A student who successfully completes the class will have developed touchtyping skills and a basic typing rate of at least 20/22 words per minute.Students with significant orthopedic disability will exit this course withfamiliarity of key locations.

Low vision or blind students may require specialized instruction.

Computer Access I

This course introduces the use of an access technology appropriate to astudent's disability in the context of basic word processing.

Students who do not require the assessment or keyboarding class will usuallyenroll in this course.

This is a basic introductory course and generally not repeated. Successfulstudents simply move on to varied activities in the Computer Access II course.

Computer Access

This is the second semester to Computer Access I. Usually there are two typesof course work being done in this class: word processing and other softwareapplications such as spreadsheets and database managers. Other softwareapplications being taught will most probably be instructor-dependent.

74 ACT for MS-DOS

Additional versions of this class can be created to meet these specific softwareapplication needs or subject area needs.

Computer Access Projects

This course is intended for students who have completed High Tech Centercurriculum and need to use High Tech Center facilities in order to competesuccessfully in academic course work. Students enrolled in this coursetypically need assistance in learning to use new applications of their accesstechnology.

•

ACT for MS-DOS 75

•

76 ACT for MS-DOS

•

•

Course Title: Computer Access Evaluation

121: Rmisikicsaa

A student must be eligible for services and instruction from Disabled StudentPrograms and Services through appropriate verification of a primary disabilityby certificated personnel and be able to benefit from the programs and servicesoffered by the High Tech Center.

Class Format:

Individualized assessment, by arrangement.

Units:

One-half unit of credit for a total of nine hours of individualized assessmentactivities.

A determination of a student's access requirements may be required in orderto determine the feasibility of that student's participation in High Tech Centerclasses.

The first step in this process is to ascertain whether or not a match can bemade between the technological capabilities of the Center and the disabledstudent's access requirements.

Course 121r2CdigiSMI

This course is designed to provide a means for in-depth computer accessevaluation in order to determine an appropriate access environment for astudent with a disability or multiple disabilities. Likely participants in thiscourse would include students who are multiply handicapped, severelyphysically disabled, have acquired brain injuries resulting in secondaryorthopedic and/or visual disabilities, re-entering disabled older students, blindor other students on recommendation of instructional staff.

1. Through assessment and evaluation the student will be matched withthe disability-appropriate adaptation in the following areas:

A. Keyboard access

ACT for MS-DOS 77

B. General mobility and seatingC. Cognitive processing abilitiesD. Educational goals

2. On the basis of the assessment, it will be determined if the student canbe appropriately served by the access technologies available in the HighTech Center.

3. As determined by instructor evaluation, the student must exhibitappropriate adaptive behavior for successful participation in theeducational setting.

Course Content and Scope;

MODULE A: Intake interview and review of student's history including:

1. Educational goals and objectives.2. Existing familiarity with computer systems, if

any.3. Review of existing medical records, if appropriate.4. Review of academic records, if appropriate.

MODULE B/C: Diagnostic instruction to evaluate (where appropriate):

1. Keyboard access capabilities.2. Mobility and seating.3. Ability to manage tasks associated with basics of

access technology and computer system.

a. Can the student carry out multi-part instructions.b. Can the student perform physical tasks necessary

for computer use; e.g., turning on computer,inserting disk.

MODULE D:

MODULE E:

MODULE F:

Prescriptive selection and assembly of appropriate array ofaccess devices based on mobility and access evaluation.

Basic introduction to and trial use of access devices.

1. Adjustment of access devices based on student use.

Recommendations and referrals.

On the basis of the evaluations undertaken in this class, theinstructor will prepare a prescriptive list of appropriateadaptive technologies and discuss the results with thestudent.

•

•

78 ACT for MS-DOS

MODULE G: Development of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) forstudents who will be taking other High Tech Center classes.

Curriculum Components Not Appropriate:

1. Reading and Writing Assignments,

2. Outside Assignments

3. Critical Thinking

EtiMaCafietb2Sthtinatawliimr

Individualized assessment by the instructor.

A student will receive one-half unit of credit upon completion of the sevencourse modules.

Grading:

The course is offered on a Credit/No-Credit basis.

Course Completion Outcome:

1. Computer access systems are evaluated and student is/is notrecommended for enrollment in other High Tech Center courses.

2. Generation of an IEP for students who successfully can use a computerthrough the use of adapted technologies provided in the High TechCenter.

3. If no appropriate access technologies are available through High TechCenter and student is referred to other resources.

Text/Supplies;

Items of a personal nature, e.g., mouthstick, head wand, or unique accessdevice, must be provided by the student.

ACT for MS-DOS 79

• Course Title: Adapted iKeyboardng

Fre-Requisite/Co-Requisite:

1. A student must be eligible for services and instruction from DisabledStudent Programs and Services through appropriate verification of aprimary disability by certificated personnel and be able to benefit fromthe programs and services offered by the High Tech Center.

2. Computer Access Evaluation may be required as a pre-requisite or co-requisite, if appropriate.

Class Format:

This course is a lab class.

Units:

This is a variable unit class. One-half unit of credit will be granted uponcompletion of 24 hours of lab work; or, one unit of credit will be granted uponcompletion of 48 hours of lab work.•Rationale:

Touch typing skills are useful for appropriate speed and performance in wordprocessing tasks. This course is necessary for students who are not able toparticipate successfully in mainstream typing classes.

Adapted computer technologies will be incorporated into the context ofsoftware keyboarding tutorials.

Course Description:

This course is designed to teach keyboarding basics to disabled students whomust use adaptive technologies for successful access to the keyboard or screenand/or are unable to compete successfully in mainstream typing classes.

ibiectims1. The student will demonstrate, by the end of the course, effective use of an

appropriate access technology, if needed (e.g., Zoomtext Plus, Filch), inconjunction with the software program used to teach keyboarding bycompleting lessons independently.

ACT for MS-DOS 81

2. The student will demonstrate key-stroking proficiency with at least one 410computer keyboard in order to complete the minimum requirements ofthis course. This key-stroking proficiency will demonstrate familiaritywith the following areas:

A. The alpha-numeric components of the computer keyboard (theQWERTY configuration).

B. The specialized areas of the keyboard (the numeric keypad, the arrowkeys, the function keys) and the special control keys (e.g., Control,Alt, Delete, Esc).

3. The student will develop appropriate touch typing techniques on thealphabet portion of the keyboard.

4. The student will achieve a minimum typing rate of 22 words per minutewith a maximum of two uncorrected errors per minute on a three-minute timed test of copy writing in order to be recommended for furtherinstruction and service through the High Tech Center.

(This words-per-minute minimum criterion is that recommended in theKeyboarding Curriculum Guidelines published by the State ofWashington in July, 1986.)

5. For a student whose disability prevents a minimum typing criterionscore, demonstration of familiarity with the physical configuration ofthe keyboard layout will be required. These students might typicallyinclude but are not limited to: persons with orthopedic disabilities,neuromuscular disorders or acquired brain injury.

pliinitantentAndala=

Touch typing skills will be taught through the use of software tutorials. TYPEis an example of a software program which is compatible with accesstechnologies: e.g., Zoomtext Plus, which provides access for low visionstudents, and Filch, which provides keyboard control for orthopedicallyimpaired students unable to efficiently use a standard keyboard. Anykeyboarding tutorial with similar compatibility with access technologies maybe used.

If the program TYPE is used, the following would serve as appropriate coursecontent:

The student will learn:

1. The keyboard layout.

ACT for MS-DOS

2. Which finger types which key.

3. Good technique in keystroking.

The student will monitor keystroking activity by observing graphicallydisplayed keystroke patterns as evaluated by a typing program.

4. To keep his or her eyes on the screen.

5. To develop speed in typing short sequences of keys.

6. To develop accuracy in typing short sequences of keys.

7. To develop speed in typing short phrases, sentences, paragraphs.

8. To develop accuracy in typing short phrases, sentences, paragraphs.

9. Will successfully copy text for a one minute timed writing at a grossstriking rate of at least 22 words per minute allowing for two errorwords per minute. *

10. Will successfully copy text for a three minute timed writing at a grossstriking rate of at least 22 words per minute allowing for two errorwords per minute. *

*Note: These timed writings will be administered by the instructor.

Course outline components not appropriate to this course;

1. Reading and Writing Assignments


Critical Thinking:

Critical thinking is inherent in working through a sequenced softwareprogram.

1. In order to proceed successfully through a sequenced program, astudent must deduce which menu option is most appropriate uponcompletion of a task if there are no specific instructions.

To do this, the student must analyze and evaluate his performance on the taskjust completed and must use deductive reasoning to make most appropriatemenu choice.

ACT for MS-DOS 83

Primary Method of Instruction:

Instructor-supervised computer assisted instruction in a lab setting.

Means of Instruction:

A student's familiarity with the keyboard will be measured by performance ontimed typing tasks.

1. The student will achieve a minimum typing rate of 22 words perminute with a maximum of two uncorrected errors per minute on athree-minute timed test of copy writing.

In some instances the instructor may decide that a student's disabilitylegitimately prevents him or her from reaching the target minimum speed.For such a student, demonstration of obvious familiarity with the physicalkeyboard should be the factor determining successful completion of the class.

Students who are unable to meet the target minimum speed, and who have nomitigating disabling condition, should be regarded as not yet ready for HighTech Center classes.

Grading:

This course is offered on a Credit/No-Credit basis.


Assuming the absence of intervening disabilities, the student will, uponsuccessful completion of this course, demonstrate touch typing skills and abasic typing rate of at least 22 words per minute with a maximum of twouncorrected errors per minute. The student may demonstrate a familiaritywith more than one type of computer keyboard.

leztawinlimEauthzet

None

84 ACT for MS-DOS

S

Course Title: Computer Access I

ErakamisittiCsaisuaiital

1. A student must be eligible for services and instruction from DisabledStudent Programs and Services through appropriate verification of aprimary disability by certificated personnel and be able to benefit fromthe programs and services offered by the High Tech Center.

2. Successful completion of and referral from the Computer AccessEvaluation class may be required.

3. Adapted Keyboarding is required as a prerequisite if a student does nothave adequate touch typing skills (approximately 20 wpm).

Notes: Touch typing skills are not required for a student with orthopedicdisabilities, but such a student must have an established, independent meansof accessing the keyboard.

Class Format:

Lecture two hours per week with 1-2 hours of lab per week.

Units;

Two units of credit are allowed (three units can be earned if 48 hours of labtime are completed)

Rationale:

Access to microcomputers is necessary for many disabled students toparticipate sucessfully in post-secondary eduction.

Since written communication is a primary requirement for success in bothacademic and job-related environments, the course introduces the use ofspecialized computer access systems within the context of word processing.

Course Description:

Designed for students with visual, physical, language impairment, learningdisabilities or deafness, this course provides training in the use of computeraccess technologies which enhance a disabled student's ability to access anduse microcomputers.

ACT for MS-DOS 85

Training in the use of computer access technologies will occur within thecontext of word processing. Students will be familiarized with basic conceptsof word processing used by the majority of industry-standard word processors,e.g., WordPerfect.

Moans,1. Evaluation and selection of access technologies appropriate to the

student's disability if the student has not completed the ComputerAccess Evaluation class.

2. Instruction in the use of access technologies appropriate to the student'sdisability in the context of word processing. Specialized areas ofinstruction might include individual and/or small group instruction inthe use of:

A . MindReader:A specialized word processing environment for moderately toseverely orthopedically disabled, learning disabled, and deaf orhard-of-hearing students.

B. Turbo Lightning:A continuous, real-time spell-checker and thesaurus for use by alldisability groups.

C. Zoomtext Plus:Software for large text on computer screen and from printer forlow vision or learning disabled students.

D. Flipper/DECtalk:Screen reading and speech output for blind, low vision, learningdisabled or language impaired students.

E. Filch:Keyboard adapter for physically disabled, learning disabled, lowvision or blind.

F. HandiwordFree-standing utility which provides word prediction inapplication programs (e.g., in WordPerfect 5.1 or Lotus); thisprograms speeds up the text entry process for students withphysical disabilities which limit keyboard entry.

4P

•

86 ACT for MS-DOS

Course Content and Scope:

Rationale for Course Structure

The total instructional period for use of specialized access devices will be fourweeks. The remainder of the semester will be spent in using the accesstechnology in the context of word processing.

It is anticipated that blind students will require the entire four weeks forbeginning efficiency with screenreading techniques. Moderately physicallydisabled students will require two weeks to develop beginning proficiency withtheir specific access technology; all other students will require approximatelyone week to develop beginning proficiency.

Upon achievement of beginning competency levels with appropriate accesstechnologies, students will use the balance of this initial four-week period toreview computer keyboarding skills through the use of keyboarding software.Within the remaining 12 weeks, the following competencies will be acquired inthe approximate time periods listed.

Weeks 1-4 The student will develop competency in a specialized accessadaptation and review basic keyboarding skills.

Week 5 The student will become familiar with basic use ofmicrocomputers in conjunction with specialized computeraccess systems.

The student will understand and appropriately perform:

1. Disk handling2. Basic startup procedures3. Basic DOS commands*

* optional

Week 6 The student will be able to understand and define thefollowing word processing concepts and structures.

1. Word processing2. File3. Document4. Word wrap5. Edit6. Format7. Pagination8. Spelling check9. Data disk/program disk

ACT for MS-DOS 87

Weeks 7-9 Using appropriate adaptive technology, the student will beable to open or edit a document and use the following basicword processing procedures:

1. Move cursor to any point on screen2. Erase, insert and edit text3. Change margins, line spacing and tab settings4. Move marked blocks of text within document5. Print a file6. Save and retrieve word processing documents

Weeks 10-16 The student will successfully apply computer accesstechnologies and basic word processing skills in creatingand editing:

1. Business letter format2. Memo format3. Essay format4. Outline format

Week 17 Course review

Week 18 Final exam

Readings and Writing Assignments:

1. Students will read chapters from assigned text.

2. Students will complete many writing assignments in the context of wordprocessing tasks. Examples:

a. content appropriate to a business letterb. a tutorial manual which details basic word processing commands

and tasksc. short essays on specified subjects

Outside Assignments;

Readings in the assigned text.

Critical Thinking:

Critical thinking is involved in the successful execution of all computer tasks;e.g., which command is appropriate to which situation.

Examples of specific projects which require critical thinking:

ACT for MS-DOS

1. Students will independently solve unfamiliar problems: students willbe given a "jumbled" file and will reassemble it into an appropriateform matching hard copy by using word processing commands (e.g.,block moves, deletions). Students will not reassemble the file bysimply typing in the correct form.

2. Students will apply principles of editing in a word processor byediting a severely misspelled and poorly produced file. Students willbe expected to analyze word usage and, if necessary, determine thesemantically correct word as spelling is corrected. Students willobserve standard typing format protocol in the editing of this file.

3. The student is expected to prioritize steps to complete assignments; isexpected to plan how to complete required lab time; where applicable,the student is expected to apply concepts learned in this class toassignments for other classes.

Method of Instruction:

This class will be conducted on a small group or individual basis.

Means of Evaluation:

Grades are arrived at as follows:

30% Class assignments20% Quizzes20% Midterms30% Final

Typical examinations will require a knowledge of word processing commandsand the actions they perform.

Students will also be evaluated on the successful completion of "hands-on"tasks given as evaluation measures.

Gradi'ne;


S

ACT for MS-DOS 89


Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be familiar withthe access devices appropriate to his or her disability and will demonstrateknowledge of basic word processing skills.

A basic college-level text for the specific word processor used is required.Students are requested to provide two floppy disks.

Items of a personal nature such as a mouth stick or head wand, or a uniqueelectronic access device must also be provided by the student.

•

90 ACT for MS-DOS

Course Title: Computer Access II

Pre-Requisite/Co-Requisite:


Instructor approval and successful completion of Computer Access I isnecessary. The instructor may directly refer a student into Computer AccessII if the student has had prior experience with access technologies andexhibits adequate touch typing skills.

Class Format:

Lecture two hours per week plus 1-2 hours of lab per week.

Units:

Two (or three with a total of 48 hours of lab work).

Rationale:

This course is designed to further refine computer access skills developed by astudent. Students who have completed Computer Access I may have developedonly a beginning competency in their prescribed access technologies and willrequire additional instruction in order to fully utilize their access systems.

Course Description:

This course is designed for disabled students who have successfully completedComputer Access I. Students will enhance their computer access skillsthrough the completion of assignments or projects.

Objectives:

Objectives will be individualized and based upon studenteducational/vocational objectives. Possible objectives are stated below.

1. For students pursuing advanced word processing tasks:

ACT for MS-DOS 91

•

The student will demonstrate skill in the use of a computer accessapplication in the context of advanced word processing tasks such asmailmerge functions, columnar block moves, editing multipledocuments, advanced formatting and stylistic techniques which requiresophisticated knowledge of a particular access device.

2. For students learning other software applications:

The student will develop competency in the use of an adapted computerapplication in conjunction with such widely used computer programs asspreadsheets, database managers, accounting systems or computerassisted design.

ESBUMPS624ggiaLaUSUZwz

Course content will depend upon the unique access needs of the student andtype of skills to be developed by the student.

Typical examples of course modules could include one or more ofthe following:

1. Development and refinement of screenreading skills for blindstudents. This might include a sequence of activities encompassingscreen reading techniques for advanced word processingapplications or other software programs.

2. Development and refinement of access skills for low-vision studentsin the context of visually intensive software applications such asspreadsheets or desktop publishing.

3. Further basic access skills development for students with extremelyslow text entry capabilities (head wand or mouth stick keyboardentry, or limited manual entry) in the context of word processing orother applications.

)Readings and Writings:

1. Students will be assigned readings from required texts as needed tolearn new applications.

2. Writing assignments are components of almost all word processingtasks.

•

•

92 ACT for MS-DOS

40

Outside Assignmentsz410 Students will be required to complete outside assignments which will involve

deciding on the style and manner of completing basic in-class, hands-onprojects.

Critical Thinking:

Critical thinking skills are involved in all activities of this class. Students willbe required to synthesize new information and apply it to known and newsituations as they develop skills in using their access technology in the contextof new applications.

Example:

A student will develop an instructional manual describing the use of his/heraccess device in conjunction with a new computer application.

Method of Instruction

This class will be conducted primarily on an individual and small grouplecture/lab basis.


30% Class assignments20% Quizzes20% Midterms30% Final

Example:

Read and edit complex text files including indented paragraphs, columnartext, on screen help menus and other frequently used text display modes.

Grading:


Course Completion Outcome:,

Upon successful completion of this course the student will demonstratesophisticated access skills in conjunction with advanced word processing orother software applications.

ACT for MS-DOS 93

4Text/Supplies Required;

Student supplies own disks. Texts as required by type of computer accessproject.

ACT for MS-DOS

•

• Course Title: Computer Access Projects

Pre-Requisite/Co-Requisite:


Instructor permission is required. It is expected that students who enroll forthis class will be able to work independently in the lab except for new aspects ofthe access technology which they are employing.

Class Format:

This course is a lab project course.

Units:

This is a variable unit course; one unit of credit will be granted uponcompletion of 48 hours of lab work. One-half unit of credit will be granted uponcompletion of 24 hours of lab work.

Rationale;

This course is designed for students who have completed the regular HighTech Center curriculum and who must learn new and advanced areas of theiradapted technologies in order to complete other classroom assignments orspecial projects.

Course Description:

This course is designed for students who require access to specialized adaptivetechnologies in order to complete assignments for other classes in which theyare concurrently enrolled.

CSLUMEDIESItbrilE

1. The student will learn new skills associated with highly specificapplications of his/her access technology.

2. The student will acquire advanced problem-solving skills in the use ofhis/her access technology in the context of practical day-to-day use.

ACT for MS-DOS 95

Course Content and 4 • pe:

1. The student will meet with the instructor to discuss the project whichthe student wishes to complete.

2. Based on this student/instructor discussion, the instructor willdetermine the validity of the project and what new aspects of thestudent's access technology must be taught within the context of thisassignment.

3. The student will complete a contractual agreement which details thework to be done, the ACT assistance to be required, and the estimatedlength of time needed to complete the assignment.

Basic instruction will involve new applications of access technologies used inthe High Tech Center. Applications will vary from student to student.

Typical examples of such work would be a low vision student learning to useaccess technologies with software required for an accounting class; or, a blindstudent using a screen reading program to develop complex screen layouts fora database program.

The following course outline components are not appropriate to this course:

1. Reading and Writing Assignments


Critical Thinking:,

Critical thinking is directly involved in the successful completion of all aspectsof work for this course: the ability to work independently without requiringspecific instruction except in the new use of the access technology is ademonstration of use of critical thinking skills.

Method of Instruction:

This class will be conducted on a lab basis.


Completion of class project and mastery of new access application as describedin student/instructor contractual agreement.

96 ACT for MS-DOS

Grading.

This course is offered on a Credit/No-Credit basis only.

Course Completion Outcome;

The student will have successfully used his or her type of adaptive technologyin a new context.

ieztauwkirItatilite&

Student must provide own disk.

•

ACT for MS-DOS 97

•

98 ACT for MS-DOS

Running A High Tech CenterTHE DELIVERY SYSTEM

Ray LovellAdapted Computer Technologies Specialist

El Camino College

Introduction

How can all this fabulous hardware and software be presented to the studentin a most efficient manner? One of the truly exciting elements about thedevelopment of a High Tech Center is that at present, there is no "one" bestmethod to deliver this package. These programs are far too young to havealready established a set protocol. Each Center is unique and will developdifferently depending on the individual needs of the students and availableresources. The following pages will discuss, in general terms, some of themajor issues relative to the development and daily operations of a High TechCenter.

thmaitax

From the onset, three key terms are critical for the orderly development of aprogram. These terms are organization, communication, and "consistency".At all times keep in mind that the primary mission of the High Tech Center--in its simplest form--is to provide computer access.

Organization is important in any learning environment. However, it isparticularly significant within a High Tech Center. An ordered environmentwill facilitate student and staff use.

Communication is obviously important when working with students. A goodworking relationship between instructor and student is especially importantwithin the High Tech Center, because the human factor can help eliminatestudent fears regarding technology.

It is also important that the students communicate with their otherinstructors (Disabled Students Program and mainstream instructors). In thisway, these instructors become aware of the available resources within theHigh Tech Center and can then urge other students to use the center.

Consistency is a critical element in providing the student with an environmentthat is stable and predictable. The simple act of moving a student from onekeyboard to another may, for that student, prove to be a confusing change.While the specialist may see this as a relatively insignificant difference, thestudent who is not yet comfortable with the hardware may find it difficult tomake this transition.

ACT for MS-DOS

Intitial Assessment

One of the first things to do is to meet individually with the students and assesstheir particular needs. What would be the special hardware/softwarerequirements that would enable them to access and benefit from the computer?The following are some of the areas that the specialist will want to explore:

What is the nature of the student's disability? Does the student have seizures?Has the student ever used a computer before? If so, what hardware/software?Does the student have requisite keyboard skills? Does the student have sensoryand/or processing deficits?

Based on this initial interview, a general profile of the student can beestablished. This information combined with input from other ProgramSpecialists (Learning Disabilities Specialist, Hearing Impaired Specialist,Speech/Language Specialist, Visually Impaired Specialist, PhysicalDisabilities Specialist) will assist in determination of appropriatehardware/software combinations for individual students. Much of thisinformation can be recorded in the form of a check sheet (see Form A) andmaintained as part of the student's I.E.P. within the High Tech Center.

asheshiUg

One of the most important tools a specialist will use in running a High TechCenter is a scheduling board. Such a board will record which student will beassigned to which computer for what period of time. This particular tool cantake many forms. They range from elaborate (and expensive) electronicscheduling boards to magnetic boards to chalkless blackboards. If resourcesare really limited, a simple clipboard may suffice (see Form B). As basic asthis may sound, it is critical that the method of scheduling students beestablished prior to the start of the semester. This scheduling board will serveas the ultimate arbitrator and fend off many potential scheduling conflicts.

When scheduling students, it is hest to give priority to those students who areenrolled in High Tech Center classes. Other disabled students may haveaccess to the equipment on a "time available" basis. As a general rule,students should not be allowed to reserve computer time more than one weekprior to the needed date. This policy will reduce the number of wasted timeslots as a result of students not showing up for their reserved time.

The general design for special classes within the High Tech Center arecustomarily a Lecture/Lab or Lab only format. The following are threecommon approaches to organization of the Lab section:

1. All students enrolled in a specific class section meet at the same timefor the lab.

100 ACT for MS-DOS

2. At the beginning of the semester each student meets with theinstructor and identifies on the scheduling board the lab times thatthey wish to reserve.

3. Students sign up for available lab time on an ongoing basisthroughout the course of the semester.

Students may work individually or be assigned a lab partner.

If the students are going to be working as partners, it is obvious that theywould need to have similar adaptive hardware/software requirements (referback to the student's I.E.P., Form A, for this information). Assigning labpartners is an important and difficult task. Students should be matchedaccording to general academic and social skills. Lab partners can bereassigned at a later date if the original assignment is not appropriate.Generally, assigning students to work as partners work best for the firstseveral weeks of the semester. However, as the students gain confidence onthe equipment, they tend to move at different rates. At some point, providedthere is available equipment, the High Tech Center specialist will probablywant to have the students work independently.

It is best to work with beginning blind students in a small class setting.Detailed individualized assistance is necessary initially, and the other blindstudents in the class will benefit from listening. Additionally, having studentswork together in a class provides for a shared body of knowledge which createsthe possibility of peer tutoring during lab times.

First Class Sessions

It is important that the students understand the basic "ground rules" whenworking in the lab (i.e., lab hours, no copying of software, scheduling ofcomputers, etc.). This information should be well posted and a copy given toeach student (see Form C as a representative sample).

Starting with the first class session, the students need to maintain a record oftheir computer time. A simple "Sign-out" sheet on a clip-board can be used forthis purpose (see Form D). Students are instructed to record their lab hours onthe form after each class session. At the end of each month these hours areentered into the computer for tabulation.

If a lecture/lab model has been established, generic computer concepts can beaddressed during the lecture session. Common keyboarding mistakes mayalso be addressed at this time. More in-depth, individualized instructionwould be given to those students who require it during the lab session.

While a computer keyboard is similar in many ways to a standard typewriter,it also has many non-traditional keys. It is important that the studentsinitially grasp the basic concepts of these special keys.

ACT for MS-DOS 101

•The method and ease with which the students are introduced to the computerswill greatly effect their success in the lab. Assure students they cannot"break" the computer if they press a wrong key.

Get the students "up and running" on the computer as quickly as possible.Structure the initial class sessions so that the students experience immediatesuccess. A useful pattern to follow is to lead students through opening a file,performing initial keyboard input (not worrying about correcting keyboarderrors) and saving and printing the file. Students go home with "instant" hardcopy and a sense of accomplishment.

Start off the semester by assuming that the students know nothing about acomputer. The simple act of turning the unit on may be both exhilarating andthreatening for the students. Try to place yourself in the position of thestudents and identify with the potential anxiety they may be experiencing.

Keep it simple! While there are many things the students can do on thecomputer, at the beginning stages, give the students only that informationwhich they need to know. Start slow. Let students proceed at their own rates.Students grasp different computer concepts at dramatically different rates.Only give them information necessary to accomplish the required task athand. As individual students feel more comfortable at the keyboard, you canembellish their knowledge of these commands during their lab time.

Floppy Maintenance

Within the lab environment, floppy disks tend to propagate very quickly. It isimportant that the specialist develop a system of easy identification. On twomailing labels, place the student's name, class (Section #), applicationprograms and indicate whether it is the "A" or "B" disk. Place these labels onthe student's disks. It will then be possible to quickly identify a particular diskwithout having to boot it up. It is also a good idea to use the "LABEL"command from DOS to electronically place the student's name on their disks.

If more than one class section is being offered, color code the disk sleeves. Usea particular color code for each section. This will assist the student (and thespecialist) in quickly identifying the disks. It should always be the students'responsibility to place their disks in sleeves and return them to the appropriatelocation at the end of each lab.

Instructional Aides

High Tech Centers are regarded as instructional facilities staffed bycertificated personnel who may or may not utilize instructional aides. As aHigh Tech Center becomes larger, it may be necessary to hire an aide to assistwith specialist instruction and lab time. Instructional aides may take theform of volunteers, paid student help, cooperative career education, or college

102 ACT for MS-DOS

•

work study students. It is critical that these individuals receive some degree oftraining. If possible, for their first semester in the lab, have them sit in onclass lectures so that they have the same information as the students. Try to 'establish a scheduled training session each week. While this is very timeconsuming, it is time that is well spent!

It generally takes approximately a full semester before a new aide becomestruly productive within the lab. Once again, if your budget does not supportthis, they may be paid through college work study or cooperative careereducation.

Public Relations

High Tech Centers are really very unique. The equipment and software istruly on the cutting edge of technology. The potential for these programs istremendous. Share this technology with your colleagues! Working in avacuum is counter-productive.

Department of Rehabilitation - The specialist should invite the localDepartment of Rehabilitation District Administrator and staff for aworkshop/demonstration. At the workshop, invite individual counselorsto come and speak to the classes. Always maintain records on theseactivities and individual student referrals.

On Campus - A good place to start is to contact the computer scienceinstructors on campus and personally invite them for a tour of the HighTech Center. Set a specific date while on the phone! Try to plan the timewhen the students are actually working on the equipment. This showsthat the equipment is not just a collection of bells and whistles... it reallydoes work! During the visit suggest that they might want to bring theirclasses over for a demonstration. Remember, computer scienceinstructors are a valuable source of technical assistance. Otherdepartments that may find the High Tech Center to be particularlyinteresting are English and business.

Off Campus - Plan an open house for representatives of local industries.A good source of names and addresses are the members of the variousCitizens Advisory Committees already in existence on your campus.The local Chamber of Commerce might be interested. These contactscan be most valuable, if some day a fundraising activity is planned insupport of the High Tech Center.

Get a Phone Line

A phone line into the High Tech Center is an important resource. (If a directline is not possible, consider a cordless phone.) It is important that a phone beavailable within the Center for purposes of technical support. A modem in thelab will allow you to connect with the High Tech Center bulletin board, CC:.

ACT for MS-DOS 103

Final Thoughts 41,The development of a High Tech Center is a continual process. Do not expect toachieve an established program overnight. As the program grows, there willalways be more to learn. Once again, the field is far too new for any one personto have all the answers, so don't be afraid to try new ideas. Remember, thereare always the old standards to fall back on. High Tech Center instructors areall pioneers. That's what makes these centers so exciting.

104 ACT for MS-DOS

• Form A

Assessment Check Sheet

Name: S.S.#: Date:

Phone: Grade: P/F Letter

Disability: Seizures:

Functional Limitations:

Previous Computer Use? Yes No Level:

If Yes, Type(S):

Software Used:

Keyboard Skills: Poor Adequate Good

Adaptations Recommended:

Zoomtext Plus

Cursor Settings:

Filch Settings:

Flipper

Handiword

Laptop

Mindreader

Powerpak Settings:

Seebeep

Turbo Lightning

Wordperfect

Work with Lab Partner Name:

Work Indepently in Lab

ACT for MS-DOS 105

Form BHigh Tech Center Scheduling Sheet

For the Week of:

Computer #

1 I Monday 1 Tuesday I Wednesday J Thursday I Friday

8:00

9:00

10:00

11:00

12:00

1:00

2:00

3:00

4:00

5:00

6:00

7:00

8:00

•

•106 ACT for MS-DOS

Form C

High Tech Center Protocol

1. Make sure you have a reservation on the schedule board.

2. Sign in your hours on the clipboard.

3. If you will be absent, please call the special resource center so we cangive your time slot to another student (phone number).

4. If you miss two consecutive appointments you will lose your scheduledtime.

5. You may stop by the High Tech Center and see if a computer isavailable.

6. No software may be removed from the center at any time.

7. No copying of any programs is allowed.

8. If you bring in your own software it must first be checked in with thestaff.

9. No eating, drinking or smoking at any time.

10. Remain in the center only when working on a computer assignment.

11. The Center will remain open only when instructional supervision ispresent.

12. Treat the software and equipment gently. We want to keep it in workingorder for many years.

ACT for MS-DOS 107

Form D

High Tech CenterLab Sign-out Sheet

Date

NAME TIME IN TIME OUT

108 ACT for MS-DOS

•

•

Software and Hardware Used in The HTCTU

SoftwareApril 1995

Product Title/Description Access DOS-DOS(Software utility for keyboard control)

Vendor Address IBM Fulfillment CenterP.O. Box 3558Shireman's Town, PA 17011-9976(800) 426-7282

Est. Price No Charge

Product Title/Description Close View–MAC(Provided with versions 6.0 and greater of the MacintoshOperating System; Provides 2x to 16x degrees of magnification)

Vendor Address Apple Computer Corporation20525 Mariani AvenueCupertino, CA 95014(800) 800-2775 (Apple Computer Education Division)


Product Title/Description Cursor Program–DOS(Cursor definition program which allows the user to change shapeof cursor on screen)

Vendor Address Public Domain SoftwareAvailable from High Tech Center


•

Eradutlitleafacthatipa

Vendor Address

Est. Price

Easy Access–MAC(A utility provided with versions 5.0 and greater of the MacintoshOperating Systems; "Sticky Keys" provides both "latch/release"and "continuous latch" options. "Mouse Keys" allows thenumeric pad keystrokes to be substituted for mouse movements)

Apple Computer Corporation20525 Mariani AvenueCupertino, CA 95014(800) 800-2775 (Apple Computer Education Division)

No Charge

ACT for MS-DOS

Product Title/Description. Filch-DOS(Stops automatic key repeat function of DOS Computers) •

Vendor Address Kinetic Designs14231 Anatevka LaneOlalla, WA 98359(206) 857-7943

Est. Price 89.00

Product Title/Description Flipper-DOS(Screen Reader)

Vendor Address OMNICHRON1438 Oxford StreetBerkeley, CA 94709(510) 540-6455

Est. Price 495.00

Product Title/Description Han.diWORD-DOS(English only version; Speeds up text entry)

Vendor Address Microsystems Software, Inc.600 Worcester RoadFramingham, MA 01701(508) 626-8511

Est. Price

Product Title/Description

Vendor Address

295.00

inLARGE-MAC(Enlarges on-screen print for Macintosh)

Berkeley Systems, Inc.2095 Rose StreetBerkeley, CA 94709(510) 540-5535

Est. Price Educational Price 165.75

Product Title/Description Mindreader-DOS("Smart" wordprocessor with text compression)

Vendor Address Brown Bag Software(Possibly No Longer Available)

Est. Price 89.95

•

ACT for MS-DOS

Product Title/Description outSPOKEN—MAC(Screen reader for Macintosh)

Vendor Address Berkeley Systems, Inc.2095 Rose StreetBerkeley, CA 94709(510) 540-5535

Est. Price Educational Price 420.75

Product Title/Description SeeBeep-DOS(Utility program which prints "beep" or flashes the screen whenan auditory cue occurs in a software program)

Vendor Address Microsystems Software, Inc.600 Worcester RoadFramingham, MA 01701(508) 626-8511

Est. Price 20.00


Vendor Address

Thunder 7—MAC(An on-line spell check program with dictionary of definitionsthesaurus)

Baseline Publishing, Inc.1770 Moriah Woods Blvd. Suite 14Memphis, TN 38117(901) 527-2501

Est. Price 99.95

Product Title/Description Turbo Lightning—DOS(On-line spelling checker and thesaurus)

Vendor Address Borland International100 Borland Way P.O. Box 660001Scotts Valley, CA 95066(408) 461-9000

Est. Price Available from High Tech Center

ACT for MS-DOS


Vendor Address

Vocal Eyes–DOS(Screen reading program for blind with reading highlightoption for students with learning disabilities)

GW Micro310 Racquet DriveFort Wayne, IN 46825(219) 483-3625

•

Est. Price Regular version 450.00; Dragon version 500.00

Product Title/Description Zoomtext Plus–DOS, WIN(Large print display program which magnifies both text andgraphics)

Vendor Address Al SquaredP.O. Box 669Manchester Center, VT 05255(802) 362-3612

Est. Price 595.00; Educational Price 535.50

•

•ACT for MS-DOS

• Hardware

•

Product Title/Description,

Vendor Address

Accent Speech Synthesizers-Dos(Board level and free standing speech synthesizers for IBM &compatibles)

AICOM Corporation1590 Oakland Road Suite B112San Jose, CA 95131(408) 453-8251

Est. Price. Board Level 745.00Free Standing 995.00

Product Title/Description Adjustable Keyboard/Monitor Stand

Vendor Address Acrylic Art1290 45th StreetEmeryville, CA 94608(510) 654-0953

Est. Price 145.00

Product Title/Description Artic Transport Speech Synthesizer-DOS(Small-under 1 pound--portable synthesizer)

Vendor Address Artic Technologies55 Park StreetTroy, MI 48083(810) 588-7370

Est, Price

afthigtTiatMghiCriptian

Vendor Address

895.00

DragonDictate–DOS(Speech recognition system for MS-DOS computers)

Dragon Systems, Inc.320 Nevada StreetNewton, MA 02160(617) 965-5200 or (800) TALKTYP. (825-5897)

Est. Price Vocabulary Size 5,000-395.00; 30,000-695.00; 60,000-1695.00. Sound Card 325.00

•ACT for MS-DOS

Headmaster-MAC, DOS, WIN(For the Macintosh, this headset provides alternative keyboardand mouse input for persons unable to physically use a keyboardmouse)

Prentke-Romich Company1022 Heyl RoadWooster, OH 44691(216) 262-1984

1,195.00

HeadMouse-MAC, DOS, WIN(This headset provides alternative keyboard and mouseinput for persons unable to physically use a keyboard ormouse)

Origin Instruments Corporation854 Greenview DriveGrand Prairie TX 75050-2438(214) 606-8740

•Product Title/Description,

Vendor Address

Est. Price


Vendor Address

Est. Price 1,995.00

Product Title/Description Kurzweil Reading Edge(Scans printed material and pro

•ides spoken output)

Vendor Address Xerox Imaging Systems9 Centennial DrivePeabody, MA 01960(508) 977-2000

Est. Price 5,495.00

Product Title/Description OsCaR(Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software andscanner)

Vendor Address Telesensory Systems, Inc.455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043(415) 960-0920

Est. Price 1,595.00

ACT for MS-DOS

•

Product Title/Description PC DECtalk DTC07-AA-DOS(Advanced board level speech synthesizer)

Vendor Address Digital Equipment CorporationP.O. Box CS2008Nashua, NH 03061(800) 344 4825

Est. Price 1,195.00

Product Title/Description,

Vendor Address

Ransley Brailler-DOS(A "black box" system which provides continuous real timetranslation of any word processer file to grade II Braille)

Humanware, Inc.6245 King RoadLoomis, CA 95650(916) 652-7253

Est. Price 995.00

Product Title/Description Sound-Proof-DOS(Screen reader for students with learning disabilities)

Vendor Address Humanware, Inc.6245 King RoadLoomis, CA 95650(916) 652-7253

Est. Price


Vendor Address

Keynote Gold version 550.00; DECtalk version 650.00

Vista VGA-DOS(On-screen print enlarger)

Telesensory Systems, Inc.455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043(415) 960-0920 or (800) 227-8419

Est. Price 2,495.00

•ACT for MS-DOS

Product Title/Descriptiork Vista 2–DOS(On-screen print enlarger for IBM PS/2 computers) •

Vendor Address Telesensory Systems, Inc.455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043(415) 960-0920 or (800) 227-8419

Est. Price 2,595.00

ACT for MS-DOS

High Tech Center Sites

ACT for MS-DOS

•

ACT for MS-DOS

Allan. Hancock CollegeLearning Assistance Program800 South College DriveSanta Maria CA 93454(805) 922-6966 ext 3380Mark Malangko

Bakersfield Comm. CollegeSupportive Services1801 Panorama DriveBakersfield CA 93305(805) 3954334Donald Johnson

Cabrillo CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.6500 Soquel DriveAptos CA 95003(408) 479-6390Frank Lynch

Chabot College

•Disabled Student Prog. & Serv.25555 Hesperian BoulevardHayward CA 94545(510) 786-6916Melinda Matsuda

Citrus CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1000 West Foothill BoulevardGlendora CA 91741(818) 914-8677Marilyn Eng

College of MarinDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.835 College AvenueKentfield CA 94904(415) 485-9621Marie McCarthy

Antelope Valley CollegeDisabled Student Services3041 West Avenue KLancaster CA 93536(805) 943-3241 ext 239Louis Lucero

Butte CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.3536 Butte Campus DriveOroville CA 95965(916) 895-2455Richard Dunn

Cerritos Community CollegeInstructional Support Center11110 Alondra BoulevardNorwalk CA 90650(310) 860-2451 ext 2334Bob Hughlett

Chaffey CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.5885 Haven AvenueRancho Cucamonga CA 91701(909) 941-2394Sharlene Smith

College of AlamedaDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.555 Atlantic AvenueAlameda CA 94501(510) 748-2326Kerry Compton

College of San MateoDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1700 West Hillsdale BoulevardSan Mateo CA 94402(415) 574-6434Arnett Caviel

ACT for MS-DOS

College of the CanyonsDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.26455 North Rockwell Canyon RoadSanta Clarita CA 91355(805) 259-7800 ext 342Bruce Pelkey

College of the Redwoods-Del NorteDisabled Student Services883 West Washington BoulevardCrescent City CA 95531(707) 464-7457 ext 112Sandra Nightingale

College of the SequoiasDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.915 South Mooney BoulevardVisalia CA 93277(209) 730-3805Don Mast

CSU Long BeachDisabled Student Services1250 Bellflower Blvd. Room 206Long Beach CA 90840(213) 985-5401David Sanfilippo

CSU San JoseDisabled Student Serv. & Prog.One Washington SquareSan Jose CA 95192(408) 924-6000Martin Schuller

Cypress CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.9200 Valley View StreetCypress CA 90630(714) 826-2220 ext 104Christine Terry

Diablo Valley CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.321 Golf Club RoadPleasant Hill CA 94523(510) 685-1230 ext 607Terry Armstrong

College of the DesertDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.43-500 Monterey AvenuePalm Desert CA 92260(619) 773-2535Diane Ramirez

College of the Redwoods-EurekaDisabled Student Services7351 Tompkins Hill RoadEureka CA 95501(707) 445-6862Susan Mindus

Contra Costa CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.2600 Mission Bell DriveSan Pablo CA 94806(510) 235-7800 ext 220Pam Van Gilder

CSU San DiegoDisabled Student Services5300 Companile Dr. CL-110San Diego CA 92182(619) 594-6473Elizabeth Bacon

Cuesta CollegeLearning Skills CenterP.O. Box 8106San Luis Obispo CA 93403-8106(805) 546-3148Lynn Frady

De Anza CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.21250 Stevens Creek BoulevardCupertino CA 95014(408) 864-8753Steven Sellitti

East Los Angeles CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1301 Avenida Cesar ChavezMonterey Park CA 91754(213) 265-8785Joseph Nqj ar

•

•

•ACT for MS-DOS

•El Camino CollegeSpecial Resource Center16007 Crenshaw BoulevardTorrance CA 90506(310) 660-3296Lucinda Aborn

Foothill CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.12345 El Monte RoadLos Altos Hills CA 94022(415) 949-7056Rosemarie Menager-Beeley

Fullerton CollegeDisabled Student Learning Center321 East Chapman AvenueFullerton CA 92632(714) 992-7270Christine Terry

Grosssmont CollegeDisabled Student Services8800 Grossmont College DriveEl Cajon CA 92020(619) 465-1700 ext 114Mimi Lee

Imperial Valley CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.P.O. Box 158Imperial CA 92251(619) 355-6311Melvin Wendrick

Lake Tahoe Comm. CollegeDisabled Student ServicesOne College DriveSouth Lake Tahoe CA 96150(916) 541-4660 ext 264Katie Olsen

Las Positas CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.3033 Collier Canyon RoadLivermore CA 94550(510) 3734908

• Robin Adler-Goldsmith

Evergreen Valley CollegeDisabled Students Program3095 Yerba Buena RoadSan Jose CA 95135(408) 270-6447Bill Cook y

Fresno City CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1101 East University AvenueFresno CA 93741(209) 442-8237Janice Emerzian

Glendale Community CollegeDisabled Students Services1500 North Verdugo RoadGlendale CA 91208(818) 240-1000 ext 5450Joy Cook

Hartwell CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.156 Homestead AvenueSalinas CA 93901(408) 755-6760Wayne Davis

Irvine Valley CollegeSupportive Services5500 Irvine Center DriveIrvine CA 92720(714) 559-3243William Hewitt

Laney CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.900 Fallon StreetOakland CA 94607(510) 464-3428Carol Dalessio

Lassen Community CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.P.O. Box 3000Susanville CA 96130(916) 257-6181 ext 195Richard Springer

ACT for MS-DOS

•Los Angeles City CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.855 North Vermont AvenueLos Angeles CA 90029(213) 9534218Chad Woo

Los Angeles Mission CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.13356 Eldridge AvenueSylmar CA 91342-3244(818) 364-7734Rick Scuderi.

Merced CollegeDisabled Student Services3600 M StreetMerced CA 95348(209) 384-6155Richard Marashlian

Mira Costa CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.One Barnard DriveOceanside CA 92056(619) 757-2121 ext 300Loretta Bohl

Modesto Junior CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.435 College AvenueModesto CA 95350(209) 575-6708Celia Barberena

Moorpark CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.7075 Campus RoadMoorpark CA 93021(805) 378-1461Jan Andriese

North Orange County ROPSpecial Projects2208 SequoiaAnaheim CA 92801(714) 870-0930Kaye Turley

Los Angeles Harbor CollegeSpecial Programs & Services1111 Figueroa PlaceWilmington CA 90744(310) 522-8281Deborah Tull

Los Angeles Pierce CollegeSpecial Services6201 Winnetka AvenueWoodland Hills CA 91371(818) 719-6430Norm Crozer

Merritt CollegeAdapted Computer Learning Cntr.12500 Campus DriveOakland CA 94619(510) 436-2516Carla Tracy-Weber

Mission CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.3000 Mission BoulevardSanta Clara CA 95054(408) 748-2730Carol Toppel

Monterey Peninsula CollegeSupportive Services980 Fremont StreetMonterey CA 93940(408) 6464070Ron Baker

Mount San Antonio CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1100 North Grand AvenueWalnut CA 91789(909) 594-5611 ext 5640Mayne Thornton

Oxnard CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.4000 South Rose AvenueOxnard CA 93033(805) 986-5830Ellen Young •

ACT for MS-DOS

• Palomar CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1140 West Mission RoadSan Marcos CA 92069(619) 744-1150 ext 2378Ron Haines

Rancho Santiago CollegeAdapted Computer Tech. Center1530 West 17th StreetSanta Ana CA 92706(714) 564-6277Cheryl Dunn

Saddleback CollegeSpecial Services28000 Marguerite ParkwayMission Viejo CA 92692(714) 5824750Jody Hollinden

San Diego Mesa CollegeHigh Tech Center

•7250 Mesa College DriveSan Diego CA 92111(619) 627-2780Connie Russert

San Joaquin Delta CollegeDisabled Student Services5151 Pacific AvenueStockton CA 95207(209) 474-5330Karen Andersen

Santa Barbara City CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.721 Cliff DriveSanta Barbara CA 93109(805) 965-0581 ext 2365Janet Shapiro

Santa Rosa Junior CollegeDisability Resources Center1501 Mendocino AvenueSanta Rosa CA 95401(707) 5274906

• Patie Wegman

Pasadena City CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1570 East Colorado BoulevardPasadena CA 91106(818) 585-7042Emylu Weller

Rio Hondo CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.3600 Workman Mill Road.Whittier CA 90601(310) 908-3420Patrick Boyle

San Diego City CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.1313 Twelfth AvenueSan Diego CA 92101(619) 230-2513Helen Elias

City College of San FranciscoJohn Adams Campus-DSP&S1860 Hayes StreetSan Francisco CA 94117(415) 239-3381Dorene Cotter

San Jose City CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.2100 Moorpark AvenueSan Jose CA 95128(408) 288-3788Zeke Garcia

Santa Monica CollegeDisabled Student Center1900 Pico BoulevardSanta Monica CA 90405(310) 452-9265Judith Schwartz

Shasta CollegeHealth & Handicap ServicesP.O. Box 496006Redding CA 96049-6006(916) 2254710Parker Pollock

ACT for MS-DOS

•Sierra CollegeDisabled Services5000 Rocklin RoadRocklin CA 95677(916) 781-0599James Hir' schinger

Southwestern Comm. CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.900 Otay Lakes RoadChula Vista CA 91910(619) 421-6700 ext 6471Greg Sandoval

U.C. DavisDisability Resource Center170 South SiloDavis CA 95615(916) 752-3184Maureen Brodie

Vista CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.2020 Milvia StreetBerkeley CA 94704(510) 841-8431 ext 251Joe Bielanski

West Valley CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.14000 Fruitvale AvenueSaratoga CA 95070(408) 741-2010Pam Luster

Solano Community CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.4000 Suisun Valley RoadSuisun CA 94585-3197(707) 864-7145Will Barnes

Taft CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.29 Emmons Park DriveTaft CA 93268(805) 763-4282 ext 276Jeff Ross

Ventura CollegeEducational Assistance Center4667 Telegraph RoadVentura CA 93003(805) 654-6300Orlene Bowers

West Hills CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.300 Cherry LaneCoalinga CA 93210(209) 935-0801 ext 225Marsha Tarver

Yuba CollegeDisabled Student Prog. & Serv.2088 North Beale RoadMarysville CA 95901(916) 741-6993Jay Simpson

•

ACT for MS-DOS

508 Regulations

ACT for MS-DOS 125

ACT for MS-DOS

Iis

• as MO Ma NI la • •mlw •1•1 alb

ar AD an • ai WM MI

at MP MP MO St MI ISe■ aim ■■ 1IM MM. IN■

MI I 1111E1 NIB IB M ON lb

Managing End UserComputing For UsersWith Disabilities

•General Services AdministrationInformation Resources Management Service

Patricia A. SzervoCommissionerInformation Resources Management ServiceU.S. General Services Administration

agiA.4_)Judith A. ParksAssistant CommissionerOffice of GSA Information SystemsU.S. General Services Administration

Managing End User Computing for Users with Disabilities has been prepared by-theClearinghouse on Computer Accommodation (COCA) of the Information ResourcesManagement Service (IRMS), General Services Administration (GSA). This handbook presentsguidance to Federal managers and other personnel who are unfamiliar with the application ofcomputer and related information technology to accommodate users with disabilities andprovide for their effective access to information resources. Issues reviewed represent "lessonslearned" by agencies and GSA's Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation.

The unbound format of this handbook accommodates the need for periodic updating due tothe rapid introduction of new accommodation-related products and services and the evolvingnature of the guidance presented. Updates will be available on-line and hard-copy and can beobtained by completing the registration form (appendix A).

COCA staff invite comments and contributions to the guide. In addition, COCA can becontacted to arrange demonstrations of accommodation solutions at their technical resourcecenter. COCA is also available to assist managers with technical advice and assistance duringacquisition planning.

The COCA staff may be reached on 202-523-1906 voicefTDD (FTS 523-1906) or via mail atGSA, Susan A. Brummel, Director, Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation, Room 2022,KGDO, 18th & F Streets, N.W., Washington, DC 20405.

Table of Contents

• I. Executive Summary ........................................................................................

II. Managing the Evolving End User Environment ......................................................... 2A. Enhancing end user tools ........................................................................... ......... 2B. Common needs of end users ................................................................................. 2C. Increasing productivity with end user tools ................................................... ......... 3D. Regulatory responsibilities for managing end user computing for

users with disabilities ............................................................................................ 4

III. Assessing Accommodation Requirements ....................................................... ......... 4A. Consultation with individual users ................................................................ ......... 4B. Accommodating users with visual impairment ......................................................... 5C. Accommodating users with hearing impairment ............................................ ......... 6D. Accommodating users with mobility impairment ............................................ ......... 7

IV. Providing End User Tools And Support ........................................................... ......... 8A. Small purchase guidance for accommodating individual user needs ............. ......... 8B. Guidance for accommodating individual user needs during

agencywide procurement ............................................................................. ........14C. Technical support ........................................................................................ ........15D. Training ....................................................................................................... ........ 16

V. Appendices ..................................................................................................... .......A-1A. Registration Form for updates to this handbook ............................................ ...... A-1

ACCOMMODATION RESOURCES AND INFORMATIONB. Assessment of Computer & Telecommunications Needs Checklists ..................... B-1C. Government Sector Resources ...................................................................... ...... C-1D. Public and Private Sector Resources ........................................................... ...... D-1E. Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf ..................................................... ...... E-1F. Federal Agency TDD Numbers .................................................................... ...... F-1G. Braille and Personal Computers .................................................................... ......G-1H. Computer Accommodation Publications ....................................................... ...... H-1

POLICY AND REGULATORY INFORMATIONI. Federal Information Resources Management Regulation (FIRMR) Amendment

on Electronic Office Equipment Accessibility for Handicapped Employees(Pub. L. 99-506, Section 508) ........................................................................ ........1-1

J.. FIRMR Bulletin 56—Electronic Office Equipment Accessibility forEmployees with Disabilities .................................................................................J-1

K. FIRMR Bulletin 48—Continuity of Computer Accommodation forHandicapped Employees When Replacing Automatic DataProcessing Equipment Systems .................................................................... ...... K-1

L. FIRMA Bulletin 42—Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation ........................L-1M. GSA Bulletin FPMR H-45--Transfer of Specialized Equipment Used by

Handicapped Federal Employees .................................................................. ......M-1N. Code of Federal Regulations on Reasonable Accommodation Title 29,

Section 1613.704 .......................................................................................... ...... N-1ACCOMMODATION PRODUCTS

0. Representative Accommodation Products ..................................................... ......0-1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Advances in technology have greatly expanded the number of information tools that areused by Federal agencies. Accommodating the functional limitations of users with visual,hearing, and mobility impairments is readily achievable. Currently the availability of cost-effectiveenhancements to support access requirements far exceeds effective utilization. This is due tothe lack of established management procedures in this area and unfamiliarity with systemconfigurations and products to accommodate needs. To begin to close this gap, and inresponse to a Congressional mandate, GSA recently promulgated an accessibility policy foragencies in its Federal Information Resources Management Regulation (FIRMR). This policyImplements Pub. L. 99-506, Section 508 (29 USC. 794d) regarding electronic office equipmentaccessibility. The policy states that:

"Federal agencies shall provide handicapped and non-handicapped employees equivalentaccess to electronic office equipment to the extent such needs are determined by theagency in accordance with 201-30.007 and the required accessibility can be provided byindustry. In providing equivalent access to electronic office equipment, agencies shallconsider:1) Access to and use of the same data bases and application programs by handicapped

and non-handicapped employees;2) Utilization of enhancement capabilities for manipulating data (ie., special peripherals) to

attain equivalent end-results by handicapped and non-handicapped employees; and3) Access to and use of equivalent communications capabilities by handicapped and non-

handicapped employees."

This handbook provides additional guidance to IRM managers as they incorporate electronicequipment accessibility into their overall acquisition planning beginning with the determinationsof need and requirements analyses for automatic data processing equipment. Consultation withindividual users is key to the development of functional performance requirements. Marketresearch currently yields a wide-range of commercially available products including hardware,software, and firmware that can be added to personal computers (PC) to meet specificaccommodation requirements of users. The largest number of solutions currently in use havebeen developed for the PC environment.

Experience is beginning to show that when acquisition planning includes the special needsof users with disabilities, cost-effective, integrated, accommodation solutions to access problemsare achieved that in many cases also serve as a catalyst to the introduction of well-designedtechnology innovations of benefit to all users.

1

I. Managing The Evolving End User Environment

A. Enhancing End User Tools

The flexibility of current personal computers has led to a proliferation of "enhancement -add-ons" which may be used to customize and streamline personal computer use. Examples ofcommon add-ons are modem cards, mouse input devices, and memon • resident software suchas desktop organizers, calculators and note pads. Certain add-ons are of particular benefit tousers with disabilities; these include speech synthesizers, speech recognition devices, softwarefor screen enlargement, screen review, keystroke control, and other hardware and softwareitems. For users with disabilities, the provision of appropriate add-ons improves access toinformation resources; in some cases, the add-ons enable an individual to independentlycomplete tasks that previously could not be performed without assistance, due to the disablingcondition.

Computer accommodation involves identifying and adding "off-the-shelf" hardware andsoftware components to standard personal computers to provide for their effective use byindividuals with disabilities. Inexpensive hardware and software add-ons are commerciallyavailable to achieve the necessary functionality for most users with disabilities. Some productshave been developed specificaly for disabled persons, such as special terminals/keyboards,input devices, and braille printers. Other products represent emerging technologies that benefitboth disabled and non-disabled people; for example, speech input/output and enhanced monitorcapabilities. Many of the enhancements necessary to achieve a particular functionality can beprovided whether the personal computer is used in standalone or terminal emulation mode.

B. Common Needs of End Users

The needs of end users with disabilities in general resemble the needs of other end usersrather than differing from them. Accommodation in the broadest sense, therefore, refers to theapplication of ergonomic principles to maximize the capabilities of all users.

Designing workstations to enhance user capabilities is becoming increasingly important aspeople spend more time using office automation equipment. A well designed workstationcontributes to user comfort, motivation, and productivity. A poorly designed workstation maylead to unnecessary fatigue and discomfort. As end user needs evolve, the acquisition plans ofFederal agencies will increasingly reflect the total information processing environment ofindividual end users.

The comprehensive needs assessment required to determine the appropriateaccommodation for individuals with disabilities may also be used to determine an optimalinterface for all users. The operations necessary to retrieve information and produce documentsare essentially the same for both disabled and non-disabled users. For example, the primarylimitation experienced by a blind individual when using a personal computer for wordprocessing is the inability to take advantage of the visual feedback presented on the screen.Adding spoken or braille output to the visual display overcomes this limitation by providingusable feedback. A personal computer that has been augmented to provide speech output canbe used by both sighted and non-sighted workers. A blind person would rely on the auditoryreview capability and a sighted person would use the visual feedback. In the future, sightedworkers are likely to rely on a combination of visual and auditory feedback.

Agency experiences with accommodation solutions that incorporate emerging technologies(e.g., speech synthesis and recognition) provide an effective means for evaluating futureapplications with potential benefit to all end users. Although speech output today is usedprimarily by visually impaired individuals, it is anticipated that many more users may rely on thiscapability in the future. Users could remotely access their computers while on business andlisten to pertinent files or electronic mail messages. In the future, agencies may employtelephone management systems with a speech synthesis interface to handle many routine, buttime-sensitive inquiries. A caller could select from a choice of messages by selecting theappropriate code, including the option to talk to an operator/information specialist.

The advantages of information mode alternatives will also benefit individuals in "handsbusy—eyes busy" environments that limit the usefulness of a system with only a keyboard andmonitor. For example, a technician who is repairing defective equipment might utilize an expertcomputer system configured to recognize and synthesize speech for troubleshooting, thusfreeing both hands for mechanical work. The technician could speak observations to thecomputer and receive spoken diagnostic assistance regarding which parts to replace.

C. Increasing Productivity with End User Tools

All of the general productivity advantages associated with office automation are available tousers with disabilities when accessible systems are provided. In addition, the inherent flexibilityof manipulating information electronically effectively compensates for users whose disabilitiesimpede their ability to handle standard print documents or review them visually, or both. Thefollowing list represents some of the significant benefits from providing accessible electronicinformation systems.

1. Limitation of Sight:a. When information is reviewed and manipulated electronically, the limitations

associated with the mechanical aspects of reading, writing, handling, anddistributing of printed information are effectively removed;

b. Documents can be readily converted into accessible forms such as large print,braille, or audio tape, in contrast to the limited availability of such alternatives in thepast;

c. Electronic messaging and voice mail provide a "disability transparent" means for ablind user to send and receive information efficiently and independently.

2. Limitation of Hearing:a. Electronic messaging also benefits hearing impaired users who rely extensively on

written communication due to oral communication limitations; andb. A deaf-blind individual whose computer supports braille output can readily access

information resources and perform essential information-related tasks independently.This system would also support effective communication with co-workers throughbraille and monitor display of text entered at the keyboard. Such a system wouldalso support electronic mail.

3. Mobility Impairment:a. Electronic manipulation of information can be significantly more efficient and

effective than more traditional means for an individual with limited dexterity. Forsome, it may be the only means of working independently and productively;

b. The mechanical problems of accessing a filing cabinet, handwriting a memo, orturning the pages of a book are eliminated;

3

c. Keyboard enhancement capabilities (macros, word prediction) can significantly boostproductivity by reducing the number of keystrokes required to generate text;

d. Electronic mail is also an effective communication medium for users with physicallimitations of mobility or speech, or both; and,

e. The advantages of the "paperless office of the future" are being achieved by userswith mobility impairments today.

D. Regulatory Responsibilities for Managing End User Computing by Users with Disabilities

1. Section 508 of Public Law 99-506 addresses electronic equipment accessibility inFederal procurements and mandates compliance with accessibility guidelines, in order "thathandicapped individuals may use electronic office equipment with or without specialperipherals." Initial guidelines were completed by the Department of Education and the GeneralServices Administration on October 1, 1987. Incorporation of the guidelines into the FederalInformation Resources Management Regulation (FIRMR) took place November 14, 1988. Theguidelines outline general policy, management responsibilities, and functional specifications toassist agencies in achieving accessibility for their employees. It is anticipated that accessibility-related equipment capabilities and support services will become integral aspects of agencyacquisitions. Users with disabilities will receive equivalent equipment, training, and technicalsupport as users without disabilities. In addition, however, users with disabilities will receiveaccommodation-related software and hardware add-ons as necessary as well as additionaltraining to use these enhancement products. The FIRMR amendment is included as appendix Iand the accompanying GSA Bulletin 56 as appendix J.

2. Federal Information Resources Management Regulation (FIRMA) Bulletin 48, datedApril 27, 1987, provides guidance on the continuity of computer accommodation when replacingautomatic data processing systems. This bulletin is included as appendix K.

3. Under the Code of Federal Regulations (29 CFR 1613.704), Federal agencies arerequired to make reasonable accommodation to the known physical or mental limitations of aqualified handicapped applicant or employee unless the accommodation would impose anundue hardship on the agency. This portion of the CFR is included as appendix N.

111. Assessing Accommodation Requirements

A. Consultation with Individual Users

Individual consultation is necessary to identify appropriate accommodation solutions. Themandatory features of an accommodation are determined by how the individual will be usingthe computer. Currently, the variety of accommodation add-ons available makes it possible toconfigure an optimum system for the user; however, this requires that specific functionallimitations are identified in relation to the work to be accomplished, and that these be carefullymatched with the enhancement products available. Successful solutions are most readilyachieved with a team approach that includes the supervisor, the user with disabilities, and atechnical support person.

A brief description of some tools frequently used by end users with disabilities follows.The review is organized by the functional limitations of vision, hearing, and mobility impairment.After defining the functional tasks to be performed by an individual user and the anticipatedfunctional problems associated with completing those tasks, vendors should be contacted toreview specific descriptions, features, and capabilities cif the tools that might best resolve theproblem(s). To facilitate the process of learning more about these tools, a representative list ofmanufacturers of personal computer add-ons for users with disabilities is included asappendix 0.

4

B. Accommodating Users with Visual Impairment1. Low Vision

a. Glare Protection Screen—Minimizes visual fatigue associated with glare on themonitor.

b. Large Monitor (19"-25")—Increases character size in proportion to monitordimensions.

c. Magnifying Screen—Reduces glare and enlarges characters to approximatelydouble their original size.

d. Large Character Display—Provides large character display capability (hardware orsoftware) that increases character size approximately 2-15 times in a manner that istransparent to the applications program.

e. Copy machine with enlarging capability—Provides enlarged print copies forpersons with impaired vision.

f. Opaque Projector—Projects an enlarged image of the printed page onto the wall ora screen. Provides for easier reading of documents received.

2. BlindFor those users with very limited or no usable vision, accommodation options includerefreshable braille display devices or synthesized speech output. A commonmisconception among sighted users is that braille is always the best solution for blindusers, but only about 10 percent can actually read braille. Typically, users who have losttheir vision later in life tend to rely on speech as their access strategy rather thanbraille. Braille and speech solutions are briefly reviewed below.a. Braille input devices—This refers not only to standalone terminals but also to

portable note-taking systems. The portable note-taking devices have their own localstorage (e.g., micro-cassette, floppy disk, random access memory), and their ownbuilt-in text editors. Their input mechanism is a keyboard with six keys and a spacebar which is used to enter braille (either Grade I or Grade II). The output display isa refreshable 20-cell display which can be connected to a braille or standard printer,or both. This device can also be connected to a personal computer for filetransfers. Some braille note-taking devices are able to give speech output as well.

b. Braille output displays—Provide a tactile output capability for review of themonitor's visual display.

c. Braille translation software and firmware—Supports users who prefer to composeand review documents in Grade II braille (see appendix G for further discussion)but who need to transmit and receive information from sighted co-workers. Thiscontracted form of braille is preferred by many braille users because it can be readmore quickly than Grade I braille and because it results in less cumbersome braille

• documents.d. Braille printers—Several braille printers are available to provide hard-copy braille

documents. Typically, documents are converted into Grade II braille before they areembossed.

e. Speech synthesizers—Provide an auditory output capability that supports screenreading software.

f. Screen reading software—Controls the speech synthesizer to allow the contents ofthe screen to be spoken in a well-defined and controlled manner and in conjunctionwith standard application packages.

g. Keyboard enhancements—Keycap replacements or labels on selected keys (homerow, special functions) that provide keyboard orientation. In addition, non-visualstatus indicators for toggle keys, such as shift lock, can be provided by software ora light probe indicator.

h. Optical character reader—When used in conjunction with a speech synthesizer,provides for the auditory review of hard-copy information and for electronic storageto disk if desired.

C. Accommodating Users with Hearing Impairment

Since operating a personal computer is essentially a visual task, hearing impaired userscurrently do not experience significant difficulties with this technology. A hearing impairedindividual might not be able to determine the drive status from the sound of the drive spinning,but the light indicator would signal the disk status. Some application programs beep, if a keyoutside the range of choices is depressed. This auditory information is often redundant,because the lack of change on the visual display indicates the same message. Applicationpackages may begin to incorporate more auditory or spoken prompts in the future, but it isanticipated that equivalent visual prompts will also be available on the screen.

Even though a computer modification is not likely to be required, the supervisor should stilldiscuss with the hearing impaired employee what support structures or procedures may benecessary to perform the job. These discussions should focus on how to accommodate theIndividual employee's communication needs relative to one-to-one communications, telephonecalls, meetings, and training courses. Accommodation needs vary by the individual, thecommunication situation, and the functional job requirements. One of the most importantaspects of accommodating a hearing impaired employee is determining the telecommunicationsrequirements. Important considerations include the following:

1. Visual redundancy—Ensure that important information conveyed by beeps or speechduring computer-related tasks are also displayed visually for the user unable to benefitfrom the auditory information. If necessary, install a flashing light signal that echoes thebeeps.

2. Interpreter—When arranging an interpreter for a technical meeting or training course,be sure to request that the interpreter have a working familiarity with the technical -terms that will be presented. Also, a hearing impaired person may miss someinformation when looking away from the interpreter to take notes. Encouragingparticipants to share course notes can help to eliminate this problem.

3. Captioning—When purchasing training tapes, obtain permission from the copyrightholder to caption them if they are not already captioned.

4. Amplification—The employee will know whether telephone amplification is beneficial,and if so, what type is most useful. Many hearing aids have a telephone setting thatcan amplify sound if an appropriate handset is used. The telephone company canprovide a handset with the appropriate magnetic field intensity to be compatible withthis type of hearing aid setting. Battery powered, portable handset amplifiers areavailable for staff traveling among various offices. The amplifier can slip over thehandset of most standard telephones.

6

5. TDD—For an employee who cannot use an amplified telephone, a telecommunicationsdevice for the deaf (TDD) should be available to support work-related needs. A TDD

- permits a hearing impaired person to communicate over a standard telephone withanother TDD user or through a relay operator to reach a non-TDD user. A standardpersonal computer can also be configured to function as a TDD; however, most TDDsdo not support the interchange code of the PC (ASCII). Special hardware and softwarecan be added to support the code used by most TDDs (Baudot). Enhancing a PC toserve a TDD function is becoming a viable option. A PC-based solution should reflect auser's requirements and allow call announcement and pick-up without exiting other PCapplication programs. TDDs that support Baudot only are considered obsoletetechnology. Additional information on TDDs is included in appendix E.

6. Federal Information Relay Service—The General Services Administration provides arelay operator service to support government business calls between TDD and non-TDD conversing parties. The operator serves as an intermediary between the hearingimpaired (TDD-equipped) caller In one direction and the non-TDD equipped caller inthe other direction. This service is available to any federal employee as well asmembers of the public when calling a government office. Within the Washington, D.C.metropolitan area the number is (202) 708-9300 v/TDD and outside the Washington,D.C. area the number is (800) 877-8339 vITDD. The service is available Monday-Friday,8 a.m.-7 p.m. EST, beginning May 1, 1989. A partial listing of federal agency TDDnumbers is included in appendix F.

7. Signalling devices—It should be determined which of the sounds in the individual'swork area need to be translated into visual signals. After these sounds have beenidentified, signalling devices can be installed that provide visual signals, and sometimesvibrations that supplement the auditory signals of sounds such as a ringing telephone,malfunctioning equipment, or a computer beeping a warning message.

8. Electronic and voice mail—Hearing impaired users will benefit from these capabilitiesas they become available. Electronic mail presents no barrier to communicationbecause it is essentially a visual process. Voice mail may be a useful option for a TDDuser who is able to speak. Spoken messages could be sent without the assistance of arelay operator. Repeated telephone calls are eliminated because this type of systemcontinues to place the call until the message is received. A voice mail message canalso be relayed to a hearing impaired person by a secretary in the same way telephonemessages are usually handled.

9. Fax—Sending hard copy documents or hand-written notes through a facsimile machinealso provides a valuable alternative to telephone messaging for some communicationsituations. Facsimile is the electronic transmission of letters and pictures over regulartelephone lines. Fax systems should provide line status information in a visual manner(either text display or status lights) for feedback to individuals not able to benefit fromauditory status information due to hearing loss or a noisy environment. A PC cardoption may be a viable alternative to a stand-alone fax machine for individuals thatusually need to transmit data that has been generated on a PC. A combination faxmachine/telephone may also be an alternative to a stand-alone fax machine.

D. Accommodating Users with Mobility Impairments

There are a variety of accommodation solutions available for users with physical disabilities.As previously stated, the selection of a software or hardware enhancement product should bedetermined after consultation with the individual employee.

The environment around the computer should also be reviewed for barriers to access suchas narrow aisles that don't allow wheelchair passage, or workstations with heights too high orlow which may result in fatigue or an inaccessible condition. Access strategies and productsinclude:

1. Keyboard enhancement programs—Are for persons who have difficulties usingstandard keyboards. There are a number of low-cost (approximately $50) keyboardenhancement programs which provide one or more of the following functions:a. enter multiple keystroke combinations (e.g., CTRL + ALT + DEL or Shift + a

letter) sequentially;b. ability to adjust or turn off the keystroke repeat function;c. store multiple keystrokes as a macro which can be executed by a single keystroke;d. remap keys to accommodate a user who is limited to the use of one hand;e. provide the equivalent of mouse functions on the keyboard, if a mouse cannot be

used;f. provide a foot mouse, an intelligent keypad, or keyboard macros to reduce the

number of keystrokes required; andadjust the sensitivity level of the keyboard so that only keystrokes made intentionallyare input.

2. Keyguard—a smooth surfaced template with holes corresponding to key locations. Akeyguard iq placed over a standard keyboard and promotes keyboard accuracy bystabilizing the user's hand movements and preventing inadvertent multiple keystrokes.

a Mouth stick or head stick—assists an individual who is unable to use a keyboard withhis hands.

4. Speech recognition—supports an individual's use of spoken commands to supplementuse of a keyboard.

5. Alternative input device—allows users to send valid keystrokes directly to thecomputer. The device is selected and configured to take advantage of the user's mostefficient means of input (e.g., optical headpointing, scanning, Morse code, etc.).

6. Optimal positioning—Several solutions are available to achieve stability for mobilityimpaired users with coordination problems, such as (1)a chair with arm rests, (2)a work-station that is centered in relation to user and (3)a stable keyboard surface set up at anoptimal working height and angle.

7. Hard Disk—This type of disk serves to minimize difficulties associated with thehandling of floppy disks.

8. Robotic Arm—Voice activated robotic arm devices are available in conjunction with awork station, This unit allows a severely mobility impaired user to have voice control ofthe computer and the robotic arm to perform tasks such as loading diskettes, turningpages in a book, and answering the phone. Other environmental control systems mayalso be attached to this system.

Ill. Providing End User Tools and Support

A. Small Purchase Guidance for Accommodating Individual User Needs

After determining the needs, performing the requirements analysis, and identifying theoptions to be added, it is recommended that a demonstration be arranged to ensure that thesystem works as intended in the host environment. COCA can assist in arranging ademonstration.

g.

The actual costs of an accommodation vary according to the equipment selected. Mostcosts are in the range of $5042500 (excluding the cost of the computer on which the add-onsare installed).

Many accommodation add-ons are still not available in computer stores, or on the GSAMultiple Awards Schedule. A representative list of companies that supply accommodation add-ons is included as appendix 0. Several companies have distributors that provide on-sitedemonstrations. Some packages are available for 30-day evaluations, or package capabilitiescan be reviewed through inexpensive software demo versions which may be purchased fromthe manufacturer. It is important to ask vendors specific questions regarding actual needs andequipment configurations. Potential purchasers should also be sure to obtain information fromthe vendor about product support, training, upgrades, warranty, maintenance, compatibility, andthe experiences of other users. COCA has had a great deal of experience in this area that canbe shared by phone or visit.

1. General Purchase ConsiderationsThe following questions may assist in planning and minimizing oversights that mightresult in unnecessary delays.Compatibility/Usefulnessa. Has the employee tried the package being considered?b. Was it demonstrated in conjunction with the application software used in the

employee's office?c. Has the particular system configuration been discussed with the vendor to insure

that the accommodation product will work correctly with the existing hardware andsoftware?

Configuration and Other Requirementsd. Do you have the required number and type of expansion slots for any cards that

will be added?e. Will the package support your current monitor (e.g., monochrome), or do you need

a special color graphics monitor (e.g. CGA, EGA, or VGA)?If you have a computer with a 80286 chip (e.g., IBM AT) or a 80386 chip (e.g.,COMPAQ 386), will the package still work?

9. Do you have enough serial ports? (Note: If you have a modem and an externalspeech synthesizer you will need two-serial ports.)

h. What about noise level considerations? Braille printers and speech synthesizers areloud, and may be distracting to others unless a printer hood or earphones areused.

i. Is the package memory resident? If so, how will this impact any other memoryresident packages being used? (Note: Many commercially available memoryresident programs must be loaded in a special sequence and sometimes interferewith each other.)

j. Does the package have an on-line tutorial or help prompts?k. If the package is menu driven, is it possible to invoke an expert mode to bypass

the menus once the end user becomes proficient? (Note: Menus tend to becomecumbersome to some expert users.)

9

I. Will terminal emulation software be required? If so, does the terminal emulationsoftware leave memory resident software intact or erase it from memory? If anaccommodation solution(s) is memory resident you must use an emulation packagethat does not erase memory resident software.

m. What does the clock speed of the personal computer need to be to adequatelysupport the accommodation package (e.g. 8 Mhtz, 12 Mhtz, 16 Mhtz)?

Installation

n. Is technical•support available within the agency and from the vendor?o. How difficult is it to install the package?p. Does the vendor offer a maintenance contract? If feasible, will a technical engineer

be dispatched within 4 hours of a service call?q. Is loaner equipment included in the maintenance contract? (Note: Most computer

accommodation equipment must be returned to the vendor for repair.)

'Raining

r. Have the training requirements of both the end user and the technical support staffbeen addressed?

s. Is documentation for both the accommodation package and the application packageavailable in a format usable by the end user (e.g., braille, captioned training tapes)?

2. Capability Specific Purchase Considerations

Large Character Display

There are hardware or software based displays which significantly increase the size ofcharacters by 2 to 15 or more times the original size. Large print displays takeadvantage of the graphics capabilities of the personal computer to produce text ofvarying sizes. The selection of font size and the color of the display is at the discretionof the user. Accommodation solutions vary. Some vendors use a monochrome monitorto provide regular text display, and add a graphics monitor for enlarged text. In thistype of environment, the program works in either a tracking or a review mode. In thetracking mode, the large print display program follows the cursor so the textimmediately to the left of the cursor appears on the graphics monitor. In the reviewmode, the large print display program temporarily takes control of the computer andallows the user to position a software window over the text to be enlarged and displaysthe selected text on the graphics monitor. Other vendors use a single graphics monitorand allow the user to flip back and forth from regular to enlarged display. Finally, someother vendors use their own special monitor in conjunction with a closed circuittelevision camera to allow printed material to be enlarged and appear on one half ofthe monitor with screen display on the other half. There are other variations of thistechnology but they all provide the same end result—enlarged display. Someconsiderations in large character display are as follows:a. What level of magnification is required by the user? (Note: increasing the magnifi-

cation decreases the amount of text that appears on the monitor. More effort isrequired to control and review the information because only portions of text are onthe screen at any one time.)

b. Does the user find reading easier when the text and background are colored forcontrast (e.g., high intensity white on a blue background instead of green, amber, orwhite on a black background)?

10

c. Does the user need to compare hardcopy documents with text on the monitor?d. Does the user need to use both graphics and text-based software?e. Does the user need large print from .his printer to complement his work on the

computer? (Note: appendix 0 contains a list of software programs that can producelarge print using an off-the-shelf, dot matrix printer).

f. Does the application program always use the computer's cursor? (Note: Somepopular spreadsheet programs do not use the cursor but rather write directly to thescreen to increase speed. Since some large character display programs query thecursor for the last updated screen position, their use with a spreadsheet programthat does not rely on the cursor may prevent the large print program frommaintaining a correct display.).

Braille PrintersSpeed is the primary determinant of price for braille printers. Generally a personalbraille system will average 20-40 characters per second (cps). There are a number ofvendors selling printers in this range. This speed is slow when you consider that lowpriced draft printers will produce 150-200 cps in the draft mode and 30-50 cps in thenear letter quality mode. For a printer in this 20-40 cps category you can expect tospend $2,500-4,000. For higher speed printers, the price increases dramatically. A120-170 cps braille printer can cost $12,000-15,000, and a 600 line per minute printercan cost over $37,000. The user with only a periodic need for braille can easily beaccommodated with a low speed printer. High speed braille printers are typically usedin an in-house braille production site for a number of users. In choosing a brailleprinter consider the following:a. Obtain a sample of the braille print for the end user to review. Each vendor makes

his cells a little differently, and some braille may seem strange to the end user.b. Do research about the mean time between failures, and the retum/repair policy.

Remember the printer is a mechanical device and, as such, is prone tobreakdowns.

c. Learn the size and weight of the braille paper to be used. The wrong weight ofpaper can cause dots to fade or lead to paper jams.

d. Inquire about the method of set-up. Some braille printers require additional externaldevices to establish the communications interface.

e. Inquire about the type of port to be used. Some printers provide only a serial port;others provide both a parallel and serial port. Be sure there are a sufficient numberand type of ports on the computer to support all required equipment, such asmodem, speech synthesizer, or ink-print printer.

Speech OutputSoftware programs for personal computers that control spoken output generated by aspeech synthesizer are called screen reading programs. When personal computerswere first available there were very few screen reading programs. Vendors designedand marketed complete systems for blind users. Soon they realized that these specialprograms did not allow for information exchange among co-workers in an office. Also, inmany cases, these special programs were not as feature-rich as popular software. Forthis reason there was a migration to screen reading software which is used inconjunction with application software.Screen reading software resides in the computer's memory and provides a variety ofreview options.

11

There are several screen reading packages that can be configured with a number ofspeech synthesizers. Putting together a speech-based system that works is not difficult.Identifying the components with the highest value for a particular user, however, shouldnot be done hastily. The solution chosen will have a long-term impact on howproductively it can be used. The best solution can only be achieved through closeconsultation with the user.An important consideration in selecting a screen reading program is its relationship tothe application software (e.g., spreadsheet, data base) with which it will be used. COCAis continually asked what should be procured first, the application software or thescreen reading software. The majority of users must share and exchange informationwith others in the office. For this reason, it is to the disabled user's benefit to employthe same application software as all the other users. Therefore, the screen-readingpackage chosen should be the one that works best with the application programs usedthroughout the office.In those increasingly rare instances where an office has not standardized its softwareor where the user works in a standalone mode, the above guidance still applies. Theapplication must be able to satisfy the user's requirements, including the support ofcommunications or use of terminal emulation packages (used to access mini andmainframe computers). No matter how well the accommodation software works with theapplication package, if the application package cannot do what the user needs toaccomplish, the accommodation solution cannot be considered a success.Adding screen reading software and a speech synthesizer might be considered inconjunction with a large print display enhancement for those individuals whose usablevision might be decreasing or for those who experience visual fatigue from using avisual output system exclusively.Common features of most screen reading programs are:a. The ability to speak the keystroke entered;b. The ability to read and spell individual words or an entire line;c. The ability to disengage from the host program and read or spell any or all lines on

the screen;d. The ability to indicate capitalization, punctuation, colors, boldface, and inverse

video; ande. The ability to set a window on the screen and read only the contents of the window.

Speech RecognitionVision or mobility impaired individuals may have a need for their input to the computerto be vocal rather than from the keyboard. Speech recognition systems may be used toreplace or augment keyboard input. Speech recognition systems may have a pre-defined vocabulary and allow user defined additions to the vocabulary. The vocabularyshould enable a command or string of commands to be evoked using a single word orphrase. In many cases the user is required to train the system to recognize theirparticular voice for the words in the vocabulary. This is accomplished by repeatingeach word in the vocabulary to the system several times until it has properly learned torecognize the speech pattern for that particular word. This commonly encounteredrequirement for individualized voice training of the system enables individuals withsignificantly altered, but consistent, speech patterns to successfully train the speechrecognition system to their voice. The speech recognition system can recognize thevocal commands of a user with a speech impairment with greater accuracy thanindividual listeners. The key to the successful use of the system is speech consistency.If an individual's voice changes significantly over the course of the day, several speechrecognition packages offer the capability of storing several voice trained patterns. Asthe error rate for one voice pattern becomes unacceptable, the user would switch totheir second voice pattern.

12

A speech recognition system includes either a stand alone microphone or a headsetwith an attached microphone. The systems are usually memory resident andcompatible with the most commonly used personal computer software packages.Specific software compatibility. questions should be investigated prior to procuring aspeech recognition system. Several of the speech recognition packages havepredefined overlays of commands that support rapid vocabulary training for use withpopular word processing, spreadsheet, and database application packages. Mostpackages allow the user to define additional commands and add them to specificvocabulary sets. There is a limit to the size of the active vocabulary set available to theuser at any time. To make the functional vocabulary larger and run faster, somepackages organize the vocabulary sets to correspond to the commands needed in aparticular portion of the application. The speech recognition system operates fastersince it does not compare speech patterns of words that will never be used in thatapplication module.Some considerations in speech recognition are as follows:a. What application program(s) will be accessed using speech recognition?b. How large is the vocabulary needed?c. Does the package have pre-defined command sets for the application programs

needed?d. How easy is it to add words to the vocabulary?e. Will the package allow several command sets to be stored for more than one voice?f. How much background noise can be present without adversely affecting the speech

recognition?g. Is there an available slot in the personal computer for the speech recognition

board?h. Can the factory-set board interrupts be changed if there is a conflict with other

boards residing in the personal computer?i. Does the clock speed of the personal computer need to be set slower to be

compatible with the speech recognition board?j. How quickly does the user's voice tire?

3. Justifying the Purchase of Accommodation Solutions

The following is a summary of the procurement advice contained in the End User's Guideto Buying Small Computers published by GSA in August 1984.

Once a decision has been made to procure a computer accommodation add-on, ajustification is needed. Government ADP regulations make it clear that the degree of analysisand documentation supporting an acquisition should match the size and complexity of theneed. Therefore, one to three pages should normally be sufficient to document the need andobtain approval for a computer accommodation add-on. The following points should be includedin the justification:

a. Problem Statement—What problem will be solved by acquiring the computeraccommodation add-on?

b. Functions To Be Performed—What applications (i.e., information processingfunctions) will be performed using the accommodation add-on?

c. Justification Over the System Life—What effectiveness and/or efficiencyimprovements are expected?

13

d. Records Management, Data Privacy, Security and Integrity—Is the data to bemaintained sensitive, and subject to specific legal and procedural controls? (Note:Typically, this is not a major issue in an accommodation because the work is donein a shared office environment).

e. Organizational Implications—What are the implications for training, in-housesupport, and continued shared use of the modified personal computer?

f. Environmental Factors—What are the impacts on space, power, and sound?g. Alternatives—Is it possible to solve the problem using other means? If several

alternatives meet the requirements for an individual user, which represents thelowest cost? (Note: This is probably the most important section related to theprocurement of computer accommodation add-ons. It is very important that athorough case be made for the specific components that are selected).

h. Software and Hardware Requirements—What hardware and software will solve theproblem? What training, support, and maintenance is necessary?

I. Configuration Selection—Where can the required hardware and software .beprocured?

j. Post Installation Review—When, how, and by whom will the benefits of the systembe evaluated?

This small purchase guidance reflects Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Part 13 whichmay be used when purchasing individual accommodation products. This guidance currentlyapplies to purchases of no more than $25,000. Conducting a small purchase procurementinvolves orally soliciting quotations from a reasonable number of manufacturers or dealers. Forpurchases under $1,000 telephone quotations from three qualified vendors is sufficient to makea purchase decision. For purchases between $1,000 and $25,000 the FAR states, "Contracting

• officers shall solicit quotations from a reasonable number of qualified sources to ensure that thepurchase is advantageous to the Government, price and other factors considered, including theadministrative cost of the purchase"

B. Guidance for Accommodating Individual User Needs During Agency-wideProcurement

IRM managers have a new program requirement, as outlined in FIRMR Amendment 14(appendix I), to incorporate electronic equipment accessibility into their overall acquisitionplanning. Electronic equipment accessibility is defined as the application/configuration ofelectronic equipment in a manner that accommodates the functional limitations of individualswith disabilities so as to promote productivity and provide access to work-related and/or publicresources.

The goal of accessibility is to provide equivalent access to information resources by non-disabled and disabled individuals. This includes access to data bases, applications programs,and communications capabilities. According to FIRMR Amendment 14, determinations of needand requirements analyses shall be conducted following the procedures set forth in FIRMR201-30.007 and in consultation with the handicapped employee(s).

FIRMR Bulletin 56, Electronic Equipment Accessibility for Employees with Disabilities(appendix J), provides guidelines for use in developing specifications, in conjunction withrequirements determinations and employee consultation. The majority of the currentaccommodation hardware and software enhancements were originally developed for the MS-DOS environment. As a result, a wide variety of hardware manufacturers support accesscapabilities for a number of disability areas whether or not they are aware of it. This flexibility isimportant because within any category of disability, there is no single accommodation add-onthat is the optimal solution for all individuals with that disability.

Individuals with disabilities are accommodated most economically and effectively when theirrequirements are incorporated into overall agency specifications and-their training and technicalsupport needs are similarly integrated with the needs of their co-workers. An individual usershould always be provided with the opportunity, however, to waive a component/enhancementon contract, if it is determined that the contractor's offering is not suitable for his particularneed or combination of needs. Agencies should also consider specifying in their contracts thatthe vendor provide systems engineering/consultation services to ensure that accommodationcapabilities remain current with new technology.

Experience is beginning to show that when acquisition planning includes the special needsof users with disabilities cost-effective, integrated, accommodation solutions to access problemsare achieved that in many cases also serve as a catalyst to the introduction of well-designedtechnology innovations of benefit to all users.

FIRMR Amendment 14, FIRMR Bulletin 56, and FIRMR Bulletin 48 (appendix K) containcurrent guidance on procurement policy.

C. Technical Support

Technical support is a key element in the accommodation process. Ongoing technicalsupport is necessary during assessment of needs, purchase, and implementation. In addition,when agencies develop IRM acquisition plans, technical support personnel must be available tooutline the functional requirements in solicitation documents to ensure continued and improvedaccess to information resources by disabled users.

Representatives of the agencies that comprise the GSA Interagency Committee forComputer Support of Handicapped Employees (ICCSHE) meet to exchange information onprogress and problems in advancing Information Resources Management (IRM) activities tosupport handicapped employees. Half of the member agencies have completed internaldirectives establishing general policy and procedures for providing computer support to theirhandicapped employees. The directives establishing this responsibility within their IRM officeswere modeled after an internal order that established a similar responsibility within GSA andalso created a governmentwide Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation (COCA)(appendix L).

GSA's COCA assists agencies as they establish technical support services for disabledemployees and plan agency acquisitions to include accessibility requirements. COCA staff alsorespond to individual employee accommodation requests governmentwide throughdemonstrations and consultations at its technical resource center. COCA makes presentations at

agency conferences and develops seminars to respond to specific agency requests. COCA hasalso established a working network of individuals with accommodation responsibilities in theirrespective agencies in order to support on-going information exchange and sharing of expertise.

15

D. Training

Training is another key element of accommodation. Both the end user and the technicalsupport personnel involved in the accommodation effort should receive training. The amount oftraining required varies with the individuals and the technology employed. Training may rangefrom computer-assisted tutorials to formal instruction. The support personnel should be almostas familiar with the accommodation hardware and software as the end users.

As agencies standardize hardware and software, agencywide procurements are becomingmore common. Agency planners in charge of training should include employees with disabilitiesin the standard training•courses offered. The only preparation unique to the disabled employeesis some preliminary training on the new system using the accommodation add-on(s). Thispreliminary training will allow the employees with disabilities to focus on the applicationstraining course itself rather than on the accommodation-related procedures. The VeteransAdministration offers several introductory courses on the use of accommodation add-onsthrough its Microcomputer Training Program for Persons with Disabilities, InformationTechnology Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C.20420. For course information call (202) 233-5524 (appendix C).

Training is also necessary for management personnel. The first line supervisor should bethe primary focus of this training. The purpose of the training is to provide management with anappreciation of the accommodation taking place, the technology being utilized, and its relationto the other tasks in the office. This training should be an integral part of overall managementtraining programs.

COCA offers a training class for managers entitled "Managing Computer Accommodationfor Users with Disabilities". In addition, COCA also offers informal introductory consultation/training at its technical resource center at the GSA building, 18th and F Sts. N.W., Washington,D.C. 20405. Consultations can be scheduled by calling (FTS or 202) 523-1906.

Appropriate documentation is an important part of training. Whenever possible,documentation should be made available to the user in the most useful manner, whether thisbe braille, audio tape, large print, captioned tapes or electronic media. For example, a printedmanual on a database package is virtually useless to a blind user. If documentation in a specialform is required, management should take steps to secure such documentation afterdetermining the accommodation requirements.

16

APPENDIX AREGISTRATION FORM

MANAGING END USER COMPUTING FOR USERS WITH DISABILITIES

(Please print or type all responses)Mail completed forms to: General Services Administration

Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation18th & F Streets, N.W., Room 2022Washington, DC 20405

NAME:

AGENCY:

ADDRESS:

SYMBOUMAILSTOP:

CITY: STATE. ZIP:

PHONE:

PLEASE SEND ME UPDATES 1D PUBLICATION: Yes: No:

COMMENTS:

A-1

APPENDIX El

ASSESSMENT OF COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS NEEDS:MANAGER'S CHECKLIST

YES NO

Is there an agency-wide policy on end user computing equipment?

Is the allocation of end user computing equipment based onan IRM plan?

Has an assessment been made of the special needs ofhandicapped employees with regard to the introduction of end usercomputing equipment?

Do you know how to obtain technical support to assist youand your handicapped employees with the selection of standardand special-purpose hardware and software?

B-1

ASSESSMENT OF COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS NEEDS:USER CHECKLIST

YES NO

Are you using end user computing equipment presently?

Is your office scheduled to receive end user computingequipment as part of your agency-wide ADP five-year plan?

Would your functional limitation affect your ability to usea computer with accessibility aids?

Do you have a visual impairment that would affect your useof a computer?

Do you have a mobility impairment that would affect your useof a computer or telephone?

Do you have a hearing impairment that would affectyour use of a telephone?

If you are already using end user computing equipment,does your system accomodate your functional limitation(s)?

Do you feel that changes could be made to your computersystem that would make it easier for you to use?

Are you using any special-purpose equipment or proceduresdesigned to accomodate your functional limitation(s)?

Are user guides and manuals available to you in a form thatyou can use? (braille, cassette)

B-2

APPENDIX CGOVERNMENT SECTOR RESOURCES

Resources within the Federal Government

The following organizations provide computer accommodation information and support. within the Federal Government: 1) GSA Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation (COCA);

2) Department of Veterans Affairs Handicapped Employees Microcomputer Support Program;3) Department of Commerce Committee on Resources for Electronic Accessible Technology toEnd Users (CREATE); 4) GSA Interagency Committee for Computer Support of HandicappedEmployees (ICCSHE) and; 5) U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division. An outline of theservices and functions of these organizations follows.

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONCLEARINGHOUSE ON COMPUTER ACCOMMODATION

What is COCAThe Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation (COCA) is a demonstration and technicalresource center in the Information Resources Management Service (IRMS) of the GeneralServices Administration (GSA). COCA's mission is to assist Federal employers and employeeswith problems related to extending office automation technologies for productive use byemployees with disabilities. COCA's computer specialists are available for consultation on allcomputer-related problems from procurement through implementation. COCA was establishedby GSA in 1985.

What Services Does COCA Provide?• provides demonstration of frequently used hardware/software and workstation furnishings to

accommodate individuals with disabilities• responds to computer accommodation requests for general information and researches

specific hardware/software and communications problems associated with an employee'saccommodation requirements

• provides ongoing consultative/technical assistance to agencies during planning, acquisition,and installation of individual and agency-wide office automation systems

• conducts workshops on computer accommodation procedures

Who Can Request the Services?

Equipment demonstrations and requests for assistance can be arranged for Federal employersand employees by contacting the COCA staff at FTS 523-1906 or (202) 523-1906 (Voice or TDD).

Who Staffs COCA?

The COCA staff is composed of computer specialists with backgrounds in computeraccommodation, systems hardware and software, communications, and acquisition policy.

Where is COCA Located?

The COCA demonstration/resource center is located at the GSA, Central Office, 18th and FStreets, NW, Room 1213, Washington, DC 20405.

What Are the Fees?

There are no fees for technical demonstrations, information, or assistance.

What Courses Does COCA Offer?COCA offers an introductory course on "Managing Computer Accommodation for Users withDisabilities" Advanced level courses can be arranged. Contact COCA staff for more information.

C-2

Description of a COCA Course"Managing Computer Accommodation for Users with Disabilities"

Understanding a reasonable computer accommodation for handicapped employees is theresponsibility of every agency. Course participants will become familiar with the hardware andsoftware most frequently used to ensure access to computer equipment by users withdisabilities (e.g., speech synthesizers, braille printers, and modified or non-keyboard inputdevices). In addition, participants will learn how to document the requirements analysis andjustification necessary to comply with GSA acquisition regulations.

C-3

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS HANDICAPPED EMPLOYEESMICROCOMPUTER SUPPORT PROGRAM

Office of Data Management and Telecommunications

DESCRIPTION

The Information Technology Center (ITC) is a facility which provides assistance to Department ofVeterans Affairs employees using microcomputers. The Center offers classes, technicalassistance and demonstrations to microcomputer users.

The ITC offers a program for disabled Federal employees in the Department of Veterans Affairsto enable them to use personal computer technology in their work. Through interagencyagreements the program is also available to employees of other Federal agencies who aredisabled or work with the disabled. Program personnel are currently providing training forFederal employees who are visually and hearing impaired. There are plans to expand the scopeof the program in the near future to Federal employees with physical handicaps.

SERVICES

The ITC provides a variety of personal computing support and educational services forhandicapped individuals including the following:

Training

In addition to training in the use of Center equipment, the ITC also offers the following courses:Introduction to Microcomputing for the Visually Impaired, Operation of the Kurzweil ReadingMachine and Microliteracy for the Hearing Impaired. Sign interpreters are provided by specialarrangement for those individuals with hearing impairments. Introductory and advancedmicrocomputer training in the use of specific software (word processing, spreadsheets anddatabase programs) are being developed. These will be provided upon request after completionof the Introduction to Microcomputing class. Training for those with physical handicaps can bearranged on an individual basis.

Consultation

The ITC staff is available for consultations on possible approaches to microtechnology problemsregarding the use of available software and hardware and, when necessary, can also makereferrals to other individuals or groups in order to solve specific problems relating tomicrocomputers in the workplace.

Technical Support

The ITC staff is prepared to answer questions of a technical nature concerning microcomputerhardware, software and its accommodation of various adaptive devices for handicapped support.

Evaluation Site

The ITC has been selected as an evaluation site for new technology by the National TechnologyCenter of the American Foundation for the Blind.

LIBRARY.

Literature - relating to personal computing and technology for the handicapped is available at theITC library. This includes periodicals, reference manuals, and information materials provided bymanufactures and other organizations dealing with handicapped individuals. Some books andmagazines are also available in tape format.

LOCATION

The ITC is located in Room 237 at the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office, 810Vermont Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20420. Hours are between 8:00 and 5:00, and the Center'sphone number is 202-233-5524.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Program

Who May Participate in the Programs?

Through interagency agreements, this program is available to employees of other Federalagencies who are either handicapped or who work with the handicapped. This program is openwithout cost to all Department of Veterans Affairs employees who are handicapped or who workwith handicapped individuals in their job.

Is the ITC a Job Placement and Counseling Facility?

No, the lit is not a job placement and counseling facility. The program is designed to be anenhancement to Federal workers in their present jobs. The ITC is not equipped to provide jobplacement or rehabilitation counseling.

How Much Does It Cost to Use This Program?

Costs for participating handicapped employees from other Government agencies are specifiedin interagency agreements.

There is no charge to Department of Veterans Affairs employees wishing to take thesespecialized classes or use the equipment.

C-5

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE COMMITTEE ON RESOURCES FORELECTRONIC ACCESSIBLE TECHNOLOGY TO END USERS

The Commerce Department's Committee on Resources for Electronic Accessible Technology toEnd Users (CREATE), established by the Assistant Secretary for Administration in 1988, is theDepartment's forum for assuring that Commerce employees with disabilities have equivalentaccess to the eictronic technology and automated systems essential to today's jobs.

PURPOSEAssure that opportunities to use computers to streamline work, to access databases, or toenhance career advancement potential are open to everyone, including those with vision,hearing, or mobility impairments; and assure that electronic technology in use at Commerceaccommodates the functional needs of all individuals.

MEMBERSHIPCommittee representatives are designated by these Commerce Department components ororganizations supporting Commerce employees:

Bureau of Economic AnalysisBureau of Export AdministrationCensus BureauCommerce Credit UnionEconomic Development AdministrationInternational Trade AdministrationMinority Business Development AgencyNational Institute of Standards and TechnologyNational Oceanic And Atmospheric AdministrationNational Technical Information ServiceNational Telecommunications and Information AdministrationOffice of the SecretaryPatent and Trademark OfficeUnited States Travel and Tourism Administration

The Chairperson of CREATE is named by the Director of the Departmental Office of InformationResources Management.

GOALS• Provide policy direction for accessible electronic technology within Commerce.• Identify information technology needs of Commerce employees with disabilites and

recommend ways to satisfy those needs.• Educate managers and employees to the wealth of available products and the ease of

providing accessible technology.• Explore ways to introduce computer technology to individuals with disabilities, providing

expanded employment and career advancement opportunities within Commerce.

C-6

ACTIVITIES• Advocate the use of accessible technology to support the employment and advancement of

individuals with disabilities.

• Develop Commerce policies and guidelines for computer accommodation.• Sponsor demonstrations of computer technology accessible to individuals with vision,

.hearing, or mobility impairments.• Evaluate needs for accessible technology.• Assist agency managers to assure that the needs of users with disabilities are identified

during the requirements analysis and procurment planning phases of automated informationsystems development.

• Help Commerce employees and managers obtain technical advice, locate products, findtraining, and reach non-Federal organizations with complementary missions.

• Serve as a clearinghouse for information on accessible technology and successfulapplications within Commerce.

• Provide liaison to the Federal-wide Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation (COCA).• Support Commerce representation on the Interagency Committee for Computer Support of

Handicapped Employees (ICCSHE).

For more InformationCall the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration, 202-377-1296 or for MD service,202-377-5691;

or write:

CREATEU.S. Department of Commerce14th and Constitution Avenue, N.W.Room H6060Washington, D.C. 20230

C-7

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONINTERAGENCY COMMITTEE

FOR COMPUTER SUPPORT OF HANDICAPPED EMPLOYEES

On March 3, 1984, the General Services Administration (GSA) established the InteragencyCommittee for Computer Support of Handicapped Employees (ICCSHE) in recognition that the"rapid development of microcomputers makes computer support of handicapped Federalemployees both practical and economical for the Government, and that policies are required tomanage such computers".

The goal of ICCSHE is to advanced the management and use of microcomputer and relatedtechnology in order to promote the Productivity and achievement of handicapped Federalemployees.

ICCSHE advises GSA on Governmentwide policy for using computer technology to benefithandicapped employees. ICCSHE also sponsors activities to further Federal agencies'awareness of using computer technology to aid handicapped employees and to recognize theaccomplishments of Federal agencies that promote computer support of handicappedemployees.

MembershipICCSHE is chaired by Leonard J. Suchanek, Chief Judge and Chairman of the GSA Board ofContract Appeals. The following departments and agencies are members of ICCSHE.

Central Intelligence AgencyDepartment of AgricultureDepartment of CommerceDepartment of DefenseDepartment of EducationDepartment of EnergyDepartment of Health and Human ServicesDepartment of Housing and Urban DevelopmentDepartment of the InteriorDepartment of JusticeDepartment of LaborDepartment of StateDepartment of TransportationDepartment of TreasuryDepartment of Veterans AffairsEqual Employment Opportunity CommissionFederal Communications CommissionFederal Emergency Management AgencyGeneral Services AdministrationLibrary of CongressNational Council on DisabilityNational Science FoundationOffice of Personnel ManagementPresident's Committee on Employment of Persons with Disabilities

C-8

Committee Structure

Committee representatives participate in one or more of the following four working groups toachieve ICCSHE objectives:

Policy

• Guides and assists agencies to formalize their information technology support responsibilities.• Advises GSA on Government-wide policy for information technology in support of disabled

employees.

Information Technology Initiatives

• Advances the recognition of exemplary information technology support initiatives andaccomplishments of federal agencies.

• Identifies and promotes the development of information technology that accommodates theaccess requirements of individuals with disabilities.

International Initiatives

• Facilitates information exchange in order to identify policy and technical issues of mutualconcern and to promote the use of information technology by persons with disabilities.

Symposium Management

• Sponsors an annual symposium to enhance knowledge in the public and private sectors ofthe value of information technology in the employment and productivity of disabledemployees.

For More information

GSA Board of Contract Appeals, ICCSHE, 18th and F Streets, N.W., Washington, DC 20405,phone FTS 566-0720 or (202) 566-0720 or TDD FTS or (202) 786-9171.

C-9

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

The U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, has published a series of TechnicalAssistance Guides (TAG) on a variety of disability related topics. Each TAG covers a specifictopic and includes resource and reference information. A list of the TAGs published to datefollows. Additional information or copies of the guides can be obtained by contacting:

Coordination and Review SectionCivil Rights DivisionU.S. Department of JusticeWashington, DC 20530(202) 724-2222 (Voice)(202) 724-7678 (TDD)

TAG-5-84-1: Interpreter Referral ServicesThis TAG lists interpreter referral service information, both for the greater Washingtonmetropolitan area and nationally. In addition, information is provided about the National Centerfor Law and the Deaf (NCLD) Newsletter.

TAG-5-84-2: Telecommunications Devices for Deaf Persons (TDD's)This TAG gives some background information on the basic function of TDD's and lists some ofthe businesses around the country that manufacture and sell them.

TAG-5-84-3: Obtaining Tape Recorded or Braille Transcriptions of Documents for Use byVisually-Impaired PersonsThis TAG lists resources in the Washington metropolitan area for tape recording and Brailletranscription. It also recommends that persons interested in obtaining similar information forother areas of the country should contact the Library of Congress' National Library Service forthe Blind and Physically Handicapped.

TAG5-5-84-4: Closed-CaptioningThis TAG gives basic information on closed and open-captioning and specifically discussesinformation about the National Park Services's captioning program and that of the NationalCaptioning Institute.

TAG-5-84-5: Sources of Information on Accessible Design, Disability Research, and theProvision of Services to Individuals with HandicapsThis TAG provides Federal agencies with an annotated list of institutional sources inWashington, D.C., that either can provide technical assistance or have facilities for conductingresearch on accessible design, disability, and the provision of services to individuals withhandicaps.

TAG-5-84-6: Published Resources Concerning Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of1973, as Amended and the Provision of Services to Individuals with HandicapsThis TAG gives a partial listing of publications (directories, handbooks, legal reporting services,and newsletters), which concentrate in whole or in part on Section 504 issues.

TAG-5-85-1: Access to Public MeetingsThis TAG provides information on steps that will enable hearing-impaired, visually-impaired andmobility-impaired persons to have access to public meetings. This TAG does not address thearchitectural accessibility of the facility in which the meeting is held.

C-10

TAG-545-2: Assistive Listening Devices (ALD's)This TAG provides information on special devices that can be used to improve communicationwith hearing-impaired persons. It discusses the problems ALD systems are intended to solve orameliorate and the costs, advantages and disadvantages of different ALD's.

TAG-5-85-3: Access to Printed Information by Visually-Impaired PersonsThis TAG provides informs/ion on steps that will enable visually-impaired persons to haveaccess to printed materials.

TAG-546-1: The President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities andrelated OrganizationsThis TAG provides recipients of Federal financial assistance and Federal agencies withinformation on employment of individuals with disabilitiess and other issues related to theimplementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

TAG-5-86-2: Telephone Devices for Persons Who Are Hard-of-HearingThis TAG discusses technological devices that help persons who are hard-of-hearing effectivelyuse the telephone.

TAG-5-86-3: Coverage of the Architectural Barriers Act of 1988, as amended (Bafflers Act)and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Section 504)This TAG explains the requirements of the Barriers Act and Section 504 as they affect theaccessibility of buildings for individuals with physical handicaps. This guide also providesinformation to assist recipients and Federal agencies in complying with the requirements of •these statutes in light of their overlapping coverage.

TAG-5-87-1: Section 504 Transition Plan and Self-Evaluation InformationThis TAG provides Federal agencies with information to assist them in completing the transitionplan and self-evaluation required by their regulations implementing Section 504 for federallyconducted programs. This TAG provides information about these requirements as they affect thenon-employment programs and activities of Federal agencies.

TAG-5-87-2: More Information About Telecommunication Devices for Deaf Persons (TDD's)In an earlier Technical Assistance Guide (TAG), the Department explained the basic function ofa TDD and provided a partial listing of TDD manufacturers in the United States. This TAGprovides more detailed information about TDD's such as installation tips, directory listings ofTDD numbers, cost range, ordering of TDD's, important features of TDD's and staff training tooperate TDD's.

TAG-5-87-3: GSA's Clearinghouse on Computer AccommodationThe purpose of this TAG is to provide Federal agencies with information about an importantresource that may assist them to solve problems related to their use of office automationtechnologies by individuals with disabilities.

C-11

TAG-5.87-4: Open-Captioning of VideotapesThe purpose of this TAG is to provide Federal agencies and recipients with an understanding ofhow open-captioning of videotapes can improve access to their programs and activities forhearing-impaired persons. This Guide also discusses how videotapes are open-captioned, andhow open-captioning services are procured. Open-captioned of film is not addressed in thisTAG. Closed-captioning has been discussed in a previous TAG.TAG-5-87-5: Architectural Accessibility Design StandardsThe purpose of this TAG is to explain design standards for architectural accessibility.Specifically, it provides information on their nature, examines how they are developed, changed,and imposed, and discusses the similarities and differences of the major design standardscurrently in use.

C-12

APPENDIX DPUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR RESOURCES

The following are representative public and private sector resources; the list is not intended tobe exhaustive or complete.

1. Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf3417 Volta Place, NWWashington, DC 20007-2778Telephone: (202) 337-5220 (Voice and TDD)

2. American Council of the Blind, .Inc.1010 Vermont Ave., N.W., Suite 1100Washington, DC 20005Telephone: (202) 393-3666

3. American Foundation For The BlindNational Technology Center15th West 16th StreetNew York, NY 10011Telephone: (212) 620-2051

4. Apple Computer, Inc.Office of Special Education20525 Mariani Avenue, MS 23-DCupertino, CA 95014Telephone: (408) 996-1010

5. AT&T Special Needs Center2001 Route 46Parsippany, NJ 07054Telephone: (800) 233-1222 (Voice)

(800)-833-3232 (TDD)

6, Baruch CollegeComputer Center for the Visually Impaired17 Lexington AvenueNew York, NY 10010Telephone: (212) 725-7644

7. Blinded Veterans Association477 H Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20001Telephone: (202) 371-8880

& Braille Institute of America, Inc.741 North Vermont AvenueLos Angeles, CA 90029Telephone: (213) 660-3880 (Library)

(213) 663-1111 (Institute)

9. The Carroll Center for the Blind770 Centre StreetNewton, MA 02158Telephone: (617) 969-6200

D-1

10. Center for Technology in Human Disabilitiesat the Maryland Rehabilitation Center2301 Argonne DriveBaltimore, MD 21218Telephone: (301) 554-3046

11. Chicago Lighthouse1850 W. Roosevelt RoadChicago, IL 60608Telephone: (312) 666-1331

12. Computerized Books for the BlindResearch and Training Center on

Rural Rehabilitation Services33 Corbin HallUniversity of MontanaMissoula, MT 59812Telephone: (406) 243-5481

13. Computer Training and Evaluation CenterWestern Blind Rehabilitation CenterVeterans Administration Hospital3801 Miranda AvenuePalo Alto, CA 94304Telephone: (415) 493-5000 ext. 4363

14. IBM National Support Center for Persons with DisabilitiesIBM Educational Systems4111 Northside ParkwayAtlanta, GA 30327Telephone: 1-800-IBM-2133 (Voice) or

(404) 238-4806 (TDD)

15. Job Accommodation Network (JAN)West Virginia University809 Allen HallPO. Box 6122Morgantown, WV 26506-6122Telephone: 800-JAN-PCEH (Voice and TDD)

16. Kentucky Department for the BlindTechnical Services Unit427 Versaillles RoadFrankfort, KY 40601Telephone: (502) 564-4754

17. National Association of the Deaf814 Thayer AvenueSilver Spring, MD 20910Telephone: (301) 587-1788 (Voice and TDD)

18. National Library Service for the Blind andPhysically HandicappedLibrary of Congress1291 Taylor Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20542Telephone: (202) 707-5100

D-2

19. National Rehabilitation Information Center(NARIC)8455 Colesville RoadSuite 935Silver Spring, Md. 20910Telephone: (800) 346-2742

(301) 588-9284 (Voice and TDD)

20. Project on the Handicapped in ScienceAmerican Association for the Advancement of ScienceContact: Virginia Stern1333 H Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20005 'Telephone: (202) 467-4496 (voice/TDD)

21. Rehabilitation Engineering Society of North America (RESNA)1101 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 700Washington, DC 20036Telephone: (202) 857-1199

22. The Storer Computer Access CenterCleveland Society for the Blind1909 East 101 StreetCleveland, OH 44106Telephone: (216) 791-8118

2a Tele-consumer Hotline1910 K Street NW, Suite 610Washington, DC 20006Telephone: (800) 332-1124 (Voice & TDD)

(202) 223-4371 (Voice & TDD)

24. Trace Research and Development Center on Communications,Control and Computer Access for Handicapped Individuals

University of Wisconsin-MadisonS151 Waisman Center1500 Highland AvenueMadison, WI 53706Telephone: (608) 262-6966 (Voice)

(608) 263-5408 (TDD)

25. Volunteers For Visually Handicapped4405 East West Highway, Suite 109-BBethesda, MD 20814Telephone: (301) 652-4347

26. Volunteers in Medical EngineeringContact: John Staehlin11728 Mays Chapel RoadLutherville, MD 21093Telephone: (301) 765-4748

•

APPENDIX ETELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICES FOR THE DEAF

What Is a TDD?A Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) is a device that permits people with hearingand/or speech impairments to communicate over a standard telephone without an interpreter. Tooperate correctly, both the transmitting and the receiving parties must have compatible TDDs.Early versions of TDDs were also known as Teletypewriters (TTY).

Who Uses TDDs?Members of the public who are deaf, hearing impaired, or speech impaired use TDDs tocommunicate over the telephone system with Government agencies. Government employeescan also use TDDs to communicate with other employees as well as with persons calling fromthe private sector. Approximately 100,000 TDDs are currently in use in the United States, andthe potential user population is estimated to be approximately 3 million people, excluding familymembers who would also use the TDD.

How Is a TDD Used?

Rather than talking into a telephone receiver, a TDD user types a message on the keyboardand receives a message on a display screen.

To place a call, the user dials the telephone conventionally, places the telephone receiver onthe TDD coupler (much like a computer modern), and observes the patterns of lights on themonitor. The patterns signal whether the line is ringing, busy, or has been answered. When thetelephone is answered by a TDD user on the receiving end, the caller simply types themessage and awaits a response.

To receive a call, the user is alerted by a ringing and/or a flashing signal light. When a phoneis designated to receive both voice and TDD-based communication, the receiving party canrecognize an incoming TDD call by the presence of high-pitched beeps or the absence of aresponse to a voiced greeting. When an incoming call requires a TDD, the user places thetelephone receiver of the telephone on the coupler, turns the TDD "on", and types out agreeting such as "Good morning, this is Jane Doe, GA". Note that the "GA" is a shorthandexpression for "Go Ahead". The typical TDD user makes frequent use of these shorthandexpressions in order to expedite communication. (The table of TDD shorthand codes lists themost frequently used expressions). The caller then responds and the conversation proceeds.

El

What TDD Features are available?

TDDs typically feature a keyboard, a single line character display, and a signal light that alertsa user to an incoming call. Additional features that are available include built-in printers, autoanswering capability, memory to save and store messages and the capability to accept eitherBaudot or ASCII 300 baud transmissions. It is also possible to add a voice announcer optionthat says "Hearing impaired caller, please use TDD" when a call is initiated. Many units canoperate on rechargeable batteries to meet portability requirements and include an ACcharger/adapter capability. Direct connection to a telephone line is available in addition toconnection through an acoustic coupler.

How are TDD messages transmitted?

TDDs transmit text information using two standard codes, the American Standard Code forInformation Interchange (ASCII) and Baudot. A TDD that employs ASCII enables the individualto communicate with a personal computer (PC) user equipped with the proper modem as wellas communicate with users of ASCII-based TDDs. Many TDDs continue to employ Baudot, theoriginal teletypewriter code, however, even though it is not compatible with personal computersand limits communications to those individuals with Baudot-compatible devices. Many of thehigh-option TDDs or specially configured PCs support both ASCII and Baudot, switching tomatch the code necessary to support all incoming or outgoing calls.

How should a TDD be selected?

Individual users should determine the features necessary. TDDs typically range in price fromapproximately $200 to $600 depending upon the features required. Important selectionconsiderations include portability, ability to support ASCII and Baudot codes, voice announcer,and auto answer and messaging. Baudot-only TDDs are rapidly becoming obsolete. In addition,general mass-market text messaging systems are currently being introduced to augmenttelephone use where phones are no longer the most efficient means of communication. Theseportable units or personal computer-based capabilities are ASCII-based and include autoanswer and memory features that resemble high-option TDDs. A convergence of text messagingmarket for hearing impaired and non-hearing impaired individuals is anticipated in the comingyears and will serve to greatly enhance the communications capabilities between the twogroups. In addition, a personal computer can be configured to support a TDD function. Due tothe current requirement for communication with Baudot-based TDDs, special hardware andsoftware must be added to support Baudot conversion. A PC-based solution for TDDcommunications should reflect a user's requirements and allow call announcement and pick-up,or call initiation without exiting other PC application programs.

Where should TDD numbers be listed?

TDD numbers should be listed in agency Federal Register notices, agency publications, agencydirectories, and local community directories.

Notification of new or changed agency TDD numbers should also be made to the FederalInformation Relay Service at the General Services Administration (202 or FTS) 566-2673 v/TDD.

The TDD telephone number should include the following notation after the number:

v/TDD - to indicate both voice and TDD incoming callsTDD - to indicate TDD only incoming calls

E-2

What are some additional sources of information regarding TDDs?

The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf3417 Volta Place, N.W.Washington, DC 20007-2778TDDNoice: (202) 377-5220

Deaf Telecommunications of Greater Washington, Inc.Capital Plaza BranchP.O. Box 2125Hyattsville, MD 20784TDDNoice: (301) 322-2230Publishes a local TDD directory

The National Association of the Deaf814 Thayer AvenueSilver Spring, MD 20910TDDNoice: (301) 587-1788

The National Information Center on DeafnessGallaudet University800 Florida Avenue, N.E.Washington, DC 20002TDD: (202) 651-5052 Voice: (202) 651-5051

Telecommunications for the Deaf, Inc.814 Thayer AvenueSilver Spring, MD 20910TDD: (301) 589-3006 Voice: (301) 589-3786Publishes Telecommunications for Deaf, Inc. Directory of TDD numbers nationwide

What are some TDD shorthand expressions?

•

GA Go aheadSK Bye ByeHD Hold onPLS Please

OIC Oh, I seeCUL See you laterU YouO Question

E-3

APPENDIX FFEDERAL AGENCY TDD NUMBERS

Notations: v voice TDD = Telecommunications Device for the DeafThis directory is a partial listing of federal agencies that are known to have TDD numbers. If anagency or department is not listed, the Federal Information Relay Service should be used. TheFederal Information Relay Service is a relay operator service provided by the General ServicesAdministration to support government business calls between TDD and non-TDD users. Theservice is available Monday-Friday, 8 am - 7 pm EST. The numbers are:

(202) 708-9300 vITDD Metropolitan Washington(800) 877-8339 v/TDD (beginning May 1, 1989)

Notification of new or changed agency TDD numbers should be made to the FederalInformation Relay Service.

Architectural and Transportation BarriersCompliance Board330 C. Street, SW Room 1010Washington, DC 20202

Central Intelligence AgencyHandicapped Programs ManagerOffice of EEO4600 Fairfax DriveArlington, VA 22203

Commission on Civil Rights1121 Vermont Avenue, N.W.Washington, D.C. 20425

Congress of the United StatesHouse of RepresentativesWashington, DC 20215

Consumer Product Safety Commission5401 West Bard Ave.Bethesda, MD 20207

Defense Nuclear AgencyDivision of PersonnelMPCV 6801 Telegraph RoadAlexandria, VA 22310-3398

Department of AgricultureCentral Employment & Selective Placement14th Street and Independence Avenue, S.W.Washington, D.C. 20250

MD only

2021351-2316 v/TDD

202/376-8117 viTDD

202/225-1904 v/TDD

800/638-8270 TDD800/492-8104 TDD

703/325-1102 v/TDD

202/447-2436 TDD

202/447-3333 TDD

202/692-6775 v/TDD

Department of AgricultureMeat and Poultry Hotline14th Street and Independence Avenue, S.W.Washington, D.C. 20250

Department of the ArmyCivilian Personnel OfficeArlington, VA 22212 F-1

202/653-7951 v/TDD245-1591 v/TDD653-7848 v/TDD653-7834 v/TDD233-3248 viTDD

Department of CommerceBureau of the CensusPopulation DivisionSuitland and Silver Hill RoadsFederal Building, Room 2030Suitland, MD 20233

Department of CommerceDemographic Surveys DivisionConsumer Expenditures Surveys Programming BranchSuitland and Silver Hill RoadsFederal Building, Room 2030Suitland, MD 20233

Department of CommerceEmployment Opportunities Listing14th and Constitution Ave., N.W.Washington, DC 20230

Department of CommerceInternational Trade AdministrationAutomated Information Management DivisionQuality Control BranchHerbert C. Hoover BuildingRoom 1848Washington, DC 20230

301/763-5020 v/TDD

301/763-4113 v/TDD763-4389 v/TDD

2021377-5246 TDD

202/377-0459 TDD

Department of Commerce 202/377-5517 vLaw Library 2021377-5691 TDD14th and Constitution Ave. NW 377-5588 TDDWashington, DC 20230

Department of CommerceNational Institute of Standards and Technology 301/975-3014 TDDOffice of PersonnelAdministration BuildingRoom Al23Gaithersburg, MD 20899

Department of Commerce 301/427-4409 v/TDDNational Weather ServiceNational Meterological CenterWorld Weather BuildingRoom 307Suitland, MD 20233

Department of CommerceOffice of the Secretary 202/377-5691 vrIDDOffice of Civil RightsEqual Employment OpportunityPrograms DivisionHerbert C. HooverRoom 6012Washington, D.C. 20230

F-2

Department of EducationCaptioning and Media Services330 C St., SWWashington, DC 20202

Department of EducationNational Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research330 C Street, S.W.Washington, DC 20202

Department of EducationOffice of Civil Rights330 C Street, S.W.Washington, D.C. 20202

Department of EducationOffice of Deafness and Communicative Disorders330 C Street, S.W.Washington, D.C. 20202

Department of EducationRehabilitation Services Administration330 C St., SWWashington, D.C. 20202

Region I-Boston, MA

Region II-New York

Region III-Philadelphia,PARegion IV-Atlanta, GA

Region V—Chicago, 11

Region VI-Dallas, TX

Region VII-Kansas City, MO

Region VW-Denver, CO

Region 1X-San Francisco, CA

Region X-Seattle, WA

Department of Health and Human ServicesFood and Drug Administration5600 Fishers LaneParkiawn BuildingRockville, MD 20857

•

202/732-1169 TDD202/732-1177 v/TDD

202/732-1198 TDD202/732-1191 v/TDD

202/732-1467 v/TDD202/7321686 TDD

202/732-1398 v/TDD

202/732-1298 TDD2021732-2848 TDD

615/565-2637 TDD800/223.6820 TDD212/264.6095 TDD800/264-6095 TDD215/596-1295 TDD404/331-2449 TDD800/242-2352 TDD312/353-1796 TDD800/353-1796 TDD214/767-2961 TDD800/729-2961 TDD816/891-8015 TDD

800/758-2381 TDD303/8446080 TDD800/327-2135 TDD415/556-9891 TDD800/556-9891 TDD217/525-5611 TDD

800/399-5331 TDD

301/443.1970 TDD443-1818 TDD

F-3

Department of Health and Human ServicesHandicapped Employment Program330 C Street, S.W., Room 2424Washington, DC 20201

Department of Health and Human ServicesNational Library of Medicine, NIH8600 Rockville PikeRockville, MD 20857

Department of Health and Human ServicesOffice of Civil Rights •200 Independence Ave., SWWashington, DC 20201

Department of Health and Human ServicesSocial Security Administration4300 Goodfellow BoulevardSt. Louis, MO 63120

Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentFair Housing and Equal OpportunityOffice of Public Affairs451 7th Street, S.W.Washington, DC 204010

Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentOffice of Intergovernmental Relations451 7th Street, SWWashington, DC 20410

Department of the InteriorArlington House

Department of the InteriorCatocin Mountain ParkThurmont, MD 21788

202/475-0073 vfTDD475.0072 vITDD475-0071 v/TDD

Missouri only:

301/496-5511 TDD

202/472-2916 TDD

800/325-0778 TDD392-0812 TDD

202/426-0015 TDD

202/426.6030 TDD

703/285-2620 TDD557-0613 voice

301/663.9330 TDD

Department of the InteriorClara Barton House

Department of the InteriorFredrick Douglas House1411 W Street, S.E.Washington. DC 20020

Department of the InteriorGlen Echo Park

301/492-6296 TDD

2021426-5963 TDD

301/285-2650 TDD

F-4

Department of the InteriorNational Park ServicePersonnel OfficeSpecial Programs Branch18th & C Streets, NWWashington, DC 20013-71237

Department of JusticeCivil Rights Division320 1st Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20530

Department of JusticeFBI Identification Division320 1st Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20530

Department of JusticeFBI Tours320 1st Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20530

Department of JusticeOffice of Redress Administration320 1st Street, NWWashington, DC 20530

Department of JusticePersonnel320 1st Street, NWWashington, DC 20530

Department of Labor200 Constitution Avenue, N.W.Washington, D.C. 20210Office of Civil Rights

Department of the NavyCivilian Personnel OfficeWashington, D.C. 20376

Naval Research LaboratoryCivilian Personnel OfficeCode 1811.24555 Overlook Avenue, S.W.Washington, DC 20375-5000C1

Department of StatePER/CCA Merit PromotionRm 2429Washington, DC 20250

202/343-3679 v/TDD343.4817 TDD426-2364 TDD

202/786-4463 v/TDD

202/324-2334 v/TDD

202/324.3553 TDD

202/659-0213 v/TDD800/548-0279 v/TDD

2021272-6098 v/TDD

2021523-7090 v/TDD

202/692-2658 v/TDD

202/767-3030 v/TDD

202/647-7256 TDD202/647-6131 v

F-5

202/366-2602 v/TDDDepartment of TransportationNational Highway Traffic Safety Admininstration400 7th Street S.W.Washington, D.C. 20590Department of TransportationEmployment InformationRegulations-General Counsels Office400 7th Street, SW.Washington, DC 20590Department of the TreasuryTelecommunications Center/Relay Service15th & Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.Washington, DC 20020Department of the TreasuryBureau of the Public Debt13th & C Streets, S.W.Washington, DC 20590

•202/755.7687 TDD

202/566.2673 TDD377-9555 v

202/287-4097 TDD

Internal Revenue Service1111 Constitution Avenue N.W.Washington, D.C. 20224Interstate Commerce Commission12th & Constitution Avenue, N.W.Washington, DC 20011Department of Veterans Affairs810 Vermont Avenue, N.W.Washington, DC 20420Barrier Free Design OfficePersonnel OfficeEnvironmental Protection AgencyCivil Rights Office401 M St., SWWashington, DC 20460Equal Employment Opportunity CommissionPersonnel: Public Sector Employment1900 E Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20415Executive Office of the PresidentThe White House1600 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W.Washington, DC 20500Federal Bureau of InvestigationTechnological Office9th & Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.Washington, DC 20535

800/428-4732 TDDIndiana only 800/382.4059 TDD

202/274-1721 TDD

202/233-3248 v/TDD202/233-3225 v/TDD

202/382-4565 TDD

202l634-7057 TDD634-6565 TDD

202/456-6213 v/TDD

202/324-2333 TDDTour Information 324-3553 TDDInterpreter Office 3243412 v/TDD

F-6

Federal Communications CommissionConsumer Assistance Office1919 M Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20554

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation1776 F Street N.W.Washington, DC 20429

Federal Maritime Commission1100 L Street, N.W., Room 10103Washington, DC 20573

Federal Reserve Board20th and C Streets, N.W.Washington, DC 20551

Federal Information Relay Service7th & D Street, S.W.Washington, DC 20407

Federal Trade CommissionPublic Reference Branch8th & Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.Washington, DC 20580

General Services AdministrationOffice of PersonnelClearinghouse on Computer AccommodationInteragency Committee for Computer Support of

Handicapped Employees18th & F Streets, NWWashington, DC 20405

International Trade AdministrationAutomated Information Management Division

Interstate Commerce Commission

Library of Congress1st and Indepedence Avenue, S.E.Washington, DC 20540

Merit Systems Protection Board1120 Vermont Avenue, N.W.Washington, DC 20419

National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationPersonnel Office (Greenbelt Office)400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.Washington, DC 20564

202/632-6999 TDD

2021898-3537 v/TDD800/424-5488 TDD

202/343.3679 TDD

202/452-3544 TDD

2021708-9300 v/TDD800/877-8339 v/TDD

202/523-3638 TDD

202/566-0545 v/TDD202/523-1906 v/TDD

202/786-9171 TDD

202/377-5588 TDD

202/275-1721 TDD

202/287-6200 TDD

202/653-8896 TDD

202/426-1436 TDD301/286-7918 v/TDD

F-7

202/523-0774 TDDNational Archives and Record Administration8th & Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.Washington, DC 20591National Council on the Handicapped800 Independence Avenue, S.W., Room 814Washington, DC 20591National Endowment for the ArtsNational institutes of HealthMerit Promotion Program9000 Rockville PikeBethesda, MD 20892National Weather ServiceNational Meteorological CenterOffice of Personnel ManagementEEO Division/internal1900 E Street, N.W., Room 1 R-46Washington, DC 20415PersonnelJob Information. CenterPresident's Committee on Employment

of People with Disabilities1111 20th Street, N.W., Suite 600Washington, DC 20510Securities and Exchange Commission450 Fifth Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20549Senate, U.S. Subcommittee on Handicapped113 Hart Senate Office BuildingWashington, DC 20510Senator Paul SimonDirkson Senate Office BuildingWashington, DC 20416Small Business Administration1401 L Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20416

202/267-3232 v/TDD 0)

2021682-5496 v/TDD202/496-7460 TDD

301/427-4409 TDD

202/632-6272 v/TDD

202/632-9513 v/TDD202/653-9260 v/TDD202/653-5112 v/TDD

653-5050 TDD

202/272-7065 v/TDD•

202/224-6265 v/TDD224-3457 TDD

202/224-5469 TDD

202/653-7561 TDD202/653-7562 ODD

Smithsonian InstitutionSpecial Education Program1st & A Streets, S.W.Washington, DC 20560Tennessee Valley Authority400 West Summit Hill DriveKnoxville, TN 37902

Tennessee only

202/357-1696 TDD

800/251-9342 TDD800/362-9250 TDD

F-8

U.S. Army Corps of EngineersSouth Pacific DivisionPersonnel Office650 Capitol MallSacramento, CA 95814-4794

United States House of RepresentativesWashington, DC 20215

United States Information AgencyEqual Opportunity301 4th Street, S.W.Washington, DC 20547

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory CommissionDivision of PersonnelWashington, DC 20555

United States Postal Service475 L'Enfant Plaza West, SWWashington, DC. 20260

United States SenateWashington, DC 20510

919/551-3039

202/225-1904 TDD

202/485-7157 viTDD

301/492-4626 TDD

202/268-2310 TDD

202/224-4049 TDD202/224-4075 TDD

Walter Reed Medical Center Emergencies 202/576-0153 TDDPatient Services6825 16th Street, N.W.Washington, DC 20307

F-9

APPENDIX GBRAILLE AND PERSONAL COMPUTERS

There are three kinds of braille available on personal computers: Grade I, Grade II, andcomputer braille. Grade I and Grade II existed long before computers* became available to theblind. Grade I braille features a one-to-one letter correspondence to English. There are someminor additions like the use of special symbols to indicate numbers and capitalization, but"cat" is still spelled in Grade I braille as "c a t" using three braille cells. (Note: A braille cell isa group of . six dots that when raised in combinations forms patterns to represent letters. ft isreadily apparent that six dots are not enough to represent letters [upper and lower case],numbers, and punctuation; therefore, special symbols like those described above are required).Grade I braille is what appears on a braille terminal when it is connected to a personal, mini, ormainframe computer. Grade I braille is not the preferred form of braille for an experiencedbraille reader. Because a braille page contains a maximum of 1080 cells (27 lines of 40 cells)and is printed on very heavy paper to retain the impression, it can be seen that Grade I brailleis both cumbersome and heavy. Most users prefer Grade II braille. Grade 11 braille is ashorthand form of braille in which contractions are used. For example "nation" is formed fromthe letters "n a" and the contraction for "tion". The use of Grade II braille assists the user inreading faster and reduces the size of the printed text. Computer braille is an addition to bothGrade I and Grade II braille to represent the special characters unique to the computer. Forexample, a carriage return is represented by two cells which indicate a "control M", which isthe computer code for a carriage return.

•

G-1

APPENDIX HCOMPUTER ACCOMMODATION PUBLICATIONS

Books:1. Personal Computers and the Disabled

Peter A. McWilliamsBook Thrift45 W. 36 StreetNew York, NY 100181984, 416pp.Telephone: (212) 947-0909

2. Beginner's Guide to Personal Computersfor the Blind and Visually ImpairedNational Braille Press88 Stephen StreetBoston, MA 02115Telephone: (617) 266-6160Available in ink print or tape

3. Rehab/Education ResourceBook Technology SeriesCollege-Hill PressLittle, Brown, and Company34 Beacon StreetBoston, MA 021081987Telephone: (617) 227-0730

NOTE: The books are titled as follows:ResourceBook 1: Communication AidsResourceBook 2: Switches and Environmental ControlsResourceBook 3: Software and HardwareResourceBook 4: Update

4. Technology for Independent Living SourcebookAlexandra Enders, editorRehabilitation Engineering Society of North America1101 Connecticut Avenue, NW Suite 700Washington, DC 20036Telephone: (202) 857-11991984, 265pp.

5. Add-Ons: The Ultimate Guide to Peripheralsfor the Blind Computer UserNational Braille Press88 St. Stephen StreetBoston, MA 02115Telephone: (617) 266-6160Available in braille, inkprint, or tape.

6. Computer Access in Higher Education forStudents with DisabilitiesThe High-Tech Center for the Disabled

of the California Community CollegesChancellor's Office1109 Ninth StreetSacramento, CA 95814Telephone: (916) 322-4636

Periodicals:

7. Computer Disability NewsNational Easter Seal Society70 E Lake StreetChicago, IL 60601Telephone: (312) 667-7400

8. Closing the GapP.O. Box 68Henderson, MN 56044Telephone: (612) 248-3294

H-2

APPENDIX I

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION .41 CFR PART 201-1, 201-30, and 201-32[FIRMR Amendment 14]ELECTRONIC OFFICE EQUIPMENT ACCESSIBILITY FOR HANDICAPPED EMPLOYEES

AGENCY: Information Resources Management Service, GSA.

ACTION: Final rule.

SUMMARY: This regulation implements Pub. L. 99-506, the "Rehabilitation Act Amendments of1986." The statute directed the Secretary of the Department of Education, through theDepartment's National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, and the Administratorof General Services in consultation with the electronics industry to develop and establishguidelines for electronic equipment accessibility designed to ensure that handicappedindividuals may use electronic office equipment with or without special peripherals. Initialguidelines were developed in 1987 to implement this Act. Federal Information ResourcesManagement Regulation (FIRMR) Bulletin 56, Electronic Office Equipment Accessibility forEmployees with Disabilities, implements these initial guidelines.

This regulation provides mandatory FIRMR coverage regarding office equipment accessibility.ft requires that determinations of need and requirements analyses be conducted for allautomatic data processing equipment requirements to specifically determine the electronicequipment accessibility requirements of handicapped employees. For any procurement limitedsolely to providing electronic office equipment accessibility for handicapped employees, anindividual deviation from any FIRMR provisions that impede or obstruct the provision oftechnology for handicapped employees may be authorized within the agency under certainconditions. The objective of this regulatory guideline is to enable handicapped users to accessand use electronic office equipment.

EFFECTIVE DATE: This rule is effective November 14, 1988, but may be observed earlier.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Margaret Truntich or Mary Anderson, RegulationsBranch (KMPR), Office of Information Resources Management Policy, telephone (202) 566-0194or FTS, 566-0194.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: (1) The purpose of this amendment is to ensure thatFederal handicapped employees are provided with the electronic equipment capability to accessand use electronic office equipment.

(2) A notice of proposed rulemaking regarding this action was published in the FEDERALREGISTER on July 14, 1988. All comments received have been considered.

1-1

(3) Changes made in 41 CFR Chapter 201 are explained in the following paragraphs.(a) In Part 201-1, § 201-1.102 is amended by adding a provision to cite the statutory authority

for electronic office equipment accessibility, and § 201-1.403 is amended by adding a provisionthat allows FIRMR deviation authorization by agencies for electronic office equipmentaccessibility. For a procurement limited solely to providing electronic office equipmentaccessibility for handicapped employees, if the FIRMR impedes or obstructs the provision oftechnology for handicapped employees, then this regulation provides that an agency designatedsenior official (DSO) (as designated in accordance with Pub. L. 96-511), or the DSO's authorizedrepresentative may authorize a deviation from FIRMR provisions that are not specificallyprescribed by executive order or statute, and do not change the level of procurement authoritydelegated from GSA to the agency. The objective of this deviation authority is to expedite theprocurement of resources acquired specifically for handicapped users to access and useelectronic office equipment.

(b) In Part 201-30, a new § 201-30.007-2 is added to provide that determinations of need andrequirements analyses shall be made to specifically identify the needs of handicappedemployees. It also establishes policies of equal access for handicapped employees.

(c) In Part 201-32, § 201-32.202 is revised to provide that procurements of ADPE shall includerequirements that ensure electronic equipment accessibility for handicapped Federal employees.It also indicates that procedures for expediting procurements limited solely to providingelectronic office equipment accessibility for handicapped employees may be available to theagency by deviating from FIRMR provisions that impede or obstruct the provision of technologyfor handicapped employees.

(4) The General Services Administration has determined that this is not a major rule for thepurposes of Executive Order 12291 of February 17, 1981. GSA actions are based on adequateinformation concerning the need for, and the consequences of the rule. The rule is written toensure maximum benefits to Federal agencies. This Govemmentwide management regulationwill have little or no net cost effect on society. It is therefore certified this rule will not have asignificant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities under the RegulatoryFlexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.).

List of subjects in 41 CFR Parts 201-1, 201-30, and 201-32Computer technology, Government procurement, Government property management,

Telecommunications, Information resources activities, Government records management,Competition, Hearing and appeal procedures.

PART 201-1—FEDERAL INFORMATION RESOURCES MANAGEMENT REGULATIONSSYSTEM

1. The authority citation for Part 201-1 continues to read as follows:

AUTHORITY: Sec. 205(c), 63 Stat. 390; 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and Sec. 101(f), 100 Stat. 1783-345, 40U.S.C. 751(0.

2. Section 201-1.102 and 201-1.403 are amended as follows:§ 201-1.102 Authority.

(c) * * *

(6) Pub. L. 99-506 (29 U.S.C. 794d), The Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1986 regardingelectronic office equipment accessibility.§ 201-1.403 Procedures* * * ♦ •

1.2

(d) For a procurement limited solely to providing electronic office equipment accessibility forhandicapped employees, an individual deviation from the FIRMR may be authorized by theagency designated senior official (DSO) (as designated in accordance with Pub. L. 96-511), orthe DSO's authorized representative. This deviation authority for handicapped accessibility isfurther limited to those FIRMR provisions that: (1) are not specifically prescribed by executiveorder or statute, (2) do not change the level of procurement authority delegated from GSA tothe agency, and (3) do impede or obstruct the provision of technology for handicappedemployees. Such a deviation may be made by the DSO or the DSO's authorized representativeimmediately upon documenting the procurement file relative to the obstructing provision.

PART 201-30—MANAGEMENT OF ADP RESOURCES

a The table of contents of Part 201-30 is amended by adding a new § 201-30.007-2; and theauthority citation for Part 201-30 continues to read as follows:§ 201-30.007-2 Requirements for handicapped employees.

AUTHORITY: Sec. 205(c), 63 Stat. 390; 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and Sec. 101(f), 100 Stat. 1783-345, 40U.S.C. 751(f).

4. Section 201-30.007-2 captioned "Requirements for handicapped employees" is added toPart 201-30 to read as follows:201-30.007-2 Requirements for handicapped employees.

(a) Scope. This section establishes policies and procedures for determining the needs ofhandicapped employees and analyzing requirements for electronic office equipment accessibilityin the Federal procurement of automatic data processing equipment (ADPE).

(b) Genera/. Pub. L. 99-506 directs that handicapped individuals be provided with electronicequipment accessibility to public information resources through the Federal procurement ofelectronic office equipment. ADPE, because it overlaps with electronic office equipment,provides that capability.

(c) Policy.

(1) Federal agencies shall provide handicapped employees and non-handicapped employeesequivalent access to electronic office equipment to the extent such needs are determined bythe agency in accordance with § 201-30.007 and the required accessibility can be provided byindustry. In providing equivalent access to electronic office equipment, agencies shall consider:

(i) Access to and use of the same data bases and application programs by handicapped andnon-handicapped employees;

(ii) Utilization of enhancement capabilities for manipulating data (i.e., special peripherals) toattain equivalent end-results by handicapped and non-handicapped employees; and

(iii) Access to and use of equivalent communications capabilities by handicapped and non-handicapped employees.

(2) Federal agencies shall consider electronic office equipment accessibility for handicappedemployees in conducting determinations of need and requirements analyses for automatic dataprocessing equipment.

(d) Procedures. Determinations of need and requirements analyses shall be conductedfollowing the procedures set forth in § 201- 30.007 and in consultation with the handicappedemployee(s). FIRMR Bulletin 56, Electronic Equipment Accessibility for Employees withDisabilities, provides guidelines for use in developing specifications, in conjunction withrequirements determinations, to ensure electronic equipment accessibility for handicappedemployees.

1-3

PART 201-32—CONTRACTING FOR ADP RESOURCES

5. The table of contents of Part 201-32 is amended by adding a new § 201-32.202; and theauthority citation fr.r Part 201-32 continues to read as follows:201-32.202 Contracting for electronic equipment accessibility.

AUTHORITY: Sec. 205(c), 63 Stat. 390; 40 U.S.C. 486(c) and Sec. 101(f), 100 Stat. 1783-345, 40U.S.C. 751(f).

6. Section 201-32.202 is recaptioned and revised to read as follows:§ 201-32.202 Contracting for electronic equipment accessibility.

(a) Scope. This section establishes policies and procedures for procuring ADPE that provideselectronic office equipment accessibility for handicapped employees.

(b) ADPE procurements shall provide electronic office equipment accessibility forhandicapped employees to the extent such needs are determined by the agency in accordancewith § 201-30.007 and the required accessibility can be provided by industry.

(c) Procedures.

(1) Agencies shall use either small purchase procedures, GSA nonmandatory ADP schedules,or formal solicitations to acquire electronic office equipment accessibility. In making thisdecision, agencies shall consider the size and complexity of the procurement.

(2) For any procurement limited solely to providing electronic office equipment accessibilityfor handicapped employees, an individual deviation from any FIRMR provisions that impede orobstruct the provision of technology for handicapped employees may be authorized within theagency under certain conditions. The deviation conditions and procedures for expediting suchprocurements are found in § 201-1.403. Any such impeding conditions shall be quicklydocumented and handled within the agency to obtain the deviation if appropriate.

DATED: September 30, 1988

Original signed by:RICHARD G. AUSTINActing Administrator of General Services

1-4

APPENDIX J

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONWashington, DC 20405

September 30, 1988

FIRMR BULLETIN 56TO: Heads of Federal agencies

SUBJECT: Electronic Office Equipment Accessibility for Employees with Disabilities

1. Purpose. This bulletin establishes guidelines for the acquisition of automatic dataprocessing equipment (ADPE) that provides electronic equipment accessibility for handicappedFederal employees and access to public information resources.

2. Expiration date. This bulletin contains information of a continuing nature and will remain ineffect until canceled.

a Background.

a. In 1986, Congress re-authorized the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Pub. L.99-506, 29 U.S.C. 794d). Section 508, as incorporated into the Act, mandates (1) that guidelinesbe established to ensure that handicapped individuals may use electronic office equipment withor without special peripherals and (2) that agencies comply with these guidelines in thepurchase or lease of electronic equipment.

b. In consultation with special advisory committees, the electronics industry, Federalagencies, and the disabled community, the Department of Education (ED) and the GeneralServices Administration (GSA) developed initial guidelines to comply with the statutory mandate.Entitled "Access to Information Technology By Users with Disabilities," these guidelines outlinemanagement responsibilities and functional specifications. This bulletin adopts and implementspertinent portions of the guidelines. This bulletin will be revised periodically: (1) to keep pacewith technological advances; (2) to expand the information in this bulletin to include other typesof office equipment; and, (3) as dictated by agency compliance with related provisions of theFederal Information Resources Management Regulation (FIRMR).

4. Definitions.

The following definitions are presented to provide a better understanding of this bulletin:a. "Electronic equipment accessibility" is defined as the application/configuration of

electronic equipment in a manner that accommodates the functional limitations of individualswith disabilities so as to promote productivity and provide access to work•related and/or publicinformation resources.

b. "Handicapped individuals or individuals with disabilities" means qualified individualswith an impairment(s) as Cited in 29 CFR § 1613.702(f) who can benefit from electronic officeequipment accessibility.

c. "Special peripheral" is defined in Section 508 of Pub. L. 99-506 as "a special needsaid that provides access to electronic equipment that is otherwise inaccessible to ahandicapped individual."

J-1

5. Introduction.

Disabled individuals and non-disabled individuals should be provided equivalent access toelectronic office equipment. Of all electronic office equipment, microcomputers have thegreatest potential for assisting disabled employees. Many enhancement features, such as textenlarging and speech input and output, available on microcomputers today allow certaindisabled individuals to accomplish previously impossible tasks. The inherent flexibility ofmicrocomputers and their peripheral devices has allowed them to be adapted to meet specificneeds of disabled individuals in the use of braille printers and keyboard replacement devices.Since microcomputers are flexible and readily available in the workplace, this bulletin addressesmicrocomputer capabilities as a means to improve productivity and employment opportunitiesfor disabled individuals. This includes both the use of standalone microcomputer systems andthe use of microcomputers used to access other computer systems (e.g., mainframes andminicomputers).

6. Management responsibilities.

a. The agency designated senior official (DSO) for Information Resources Management(1RM), as identified in the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-511), or the DSO'sauthorized representative is the primary individual responsible for implementing this bulletin.The DSO or the DSO's authorized representative should keep executive agency managersinformed of their responsibilities for ensuring electronic office equipment accessibility foremployees with disabilities. This includes providing access for individuals with disabilities toFederal public information resources. The DSO or the DSO's authorized representative shouldmonitor the progress being made toward achieving electronic equipment accessibility goals. TheTriennial Review Program is one means of monitoring the progress being made in achievingaccessibility goals.

b. Agency managers should ensure that the requirements of users with disabilities areidentified during the procurement planning and requirements determination phase so that theseneeds will be reflected in the procurement. Procurements should include the accessibilityrequirements resulting from the determinations of need and requirements analysis. A clearstatement of requirements will afford industry the opportunity to offer effective, creative solutions.Additionally, technical support capabilities should be provided, either in-house or contractually,to install, maintain, and improve the access functionality required by employees with disabilities.

7. General considerations.

a. In compliance with FIRMR § 201-30.007, the needs of employees with disabilities shouldbe determined and a requirements analysis for office equipment accessibility should beperformed. Agency solicitation documents should address the needs of disabled employees byincorporating the appropriate functional specifications described below in paragraph 8 as wellas any additional specifications determined to be necessary by the agency.

b. Solutions to agencies' requirements may range from third-party hardware and softwareadd-ons (e.g., layered solutions) to hardware "built-ins" and operating system enhancements.Layering is the inclusion of additional layers of software between the end-user and theoperating system or application software. This often complex solution has both advantages anddisadvantages. Advantages may include increased function and performance in some cases.Disadvantages may occur because additional layers can increase the cost or inhibit the abilityto maintain software updates at the operating system level as well as increasing costs to trainemployees to utilize equipment at different sites within the agency. For these reasons, the useof layering as a solution for functional requirements for employees with disabilities should beselected only after careful analysis of its merits relative to that of "built-in" solutions.

J-2

•

c. In an era of increasing dependence on screen graphics and graphic images, it isextremely important that information presented visually also be available electronically to allowthe information to be extracted, translated, and presented in a non-visual form as limited by thestate-of-the-art. The intent is to allow individuals with visual limitations to use these resources.

d. To accommodate future employees and provide systems support for current employees(as referenced in FIRMA Bulletin 48), solicitations should request pricing (perhaps on an hourlycall-in availability basis throughout the life of the contract) for the services of vendor systemsengineers who will be available to advise, assist, and resolve any communications or interfacingproblems in providing electronic office equipment accessibility for disabled individuals.Additional information, on providing support for disabled employees when replacing ADPEsystems, can be found in FIRMA Bulletin 48.

S. Managers determining accommodation strategies for an individual employee with adisability should consult the GSA handbook "Managing. End User Computing for Users withDisabilities" for more detailed guidance on the specific needs of the many types of disabilitiesand how best to satisfy these needs. To obtain advice on computer accommodation or a copyof the handbook, managers should contact the GSA Clearinghouse on ComputerAccommodation (COCA) by calling (202) 523-1906 or FTS, 523-1906.

& Functional specifications.

These specifications are organized by functional requirement into three categories: input,output, and documentation. This organization reflects the major areas that need to beaddressed during agency acquisition planning and procurement. All the capabilities set forth inthese specifications are currently available from industry in various degrees of functionaladequacy except for access to screen memory for translating bit-mapped graphic images.

a. Input. Access problems concerning the input interface to a microcomputer differ by thetype and severity of the functional limitation of the employee. Some users with disabilities arecapable of using a keyboard if it can be modified slightly. Other users with disabilities requirean alternate input strategy. The following is an overview of common input alternatives, and otherinput functional requirements which should be considered:

(1)Multiple Simultaneous Operation Alternative. Microcomputers have numerouscommonly-used functions that require multiple, simultaneous striking of keys and/or buttons.Sequential activation control provides an alternative method of operation by enabling a user todepress keys or buttons sequentially.

(2)Input Redundancy. Some programs require a mouse or some other fine motor controldevice for input. However, some users with motor disabilities cannot operate these devices. Aninput redundancy feature provides the functionality of these devices through the keyboardand/or other suitable alternative input devices (e.g., voice input).

(3)Alternative Input Devices. The capability to connect an alternative input device canbe made available to a user who is not able to use a modified standard keyboard. This featuresupplements the keyboard and any other standard input system used. The alternative inputcapability consists of a physical port (serial, parallel, etc.) or connection capability that allows anaccommodation aid to be connected to the system to augment or replace the keyboard. Forexample, an alternative input device can be customized as the most effective method of input(e.g., switches, eye scan, headtracking) for the user while supporting transparent hardwareemulation for standard input devices (i.e., the keyboard and the mouse).

(4)Key Repeat. A typical microcomputer generates repetitions of a character if that keyremains depressed. This is a problem for users without sufficient motor control. A key repeatfeature gives a user control over the repeat start time and rate by allowing either the timingparameters to be extended, or the repeat function to be turned off.

(5) Toggle Key Status Control. Microcomputer toggle keys provide visual feedbackindicating whether a key is on or off. A toggle key status feature provides an alternative modeto visual feedback to show the on or off status of a toggle key.

(6) Keyboard Orientation Aids. To orient a visually impaired user to a particular keyboard,a set of tactile overlays should be available to identify the most important keys. The tactileoverlays can be in the form of keycap replacements or transparent sticky tape with uniquesymbols to identify the various keys.

• (7) Keyguards. To assist a motor disabled user, a keyguard should be available tostabilize movements and ensure that the correct keys are located and depressed. A keyguard isa keyboard template with holes corresponding to the location of the keys.

b. Output. Auditory output capability, information redundancy, and monitor display shouldbe considered as functional requirements.

(1) Auditory Output Capability. The auditory output capability on current microcomputersis sufficient to beep and play music. However, some users with disabilities may require aspeech capability. A speech synthesizer is required to generate speech on today's computers.The capability to support a speech synthesizer should continue to be available in futuregenerations of computers or this capability may be internalized through an upgrade of thecomputer's internal speaker. The speech capability should include user adjustable volumecontrol and a headset jack.

(2) Information Redundancy. Currently, several programs activate a speaker on themicrocomputer to provide information to the user. However, some programs do not have thecapability to present this information visually to the hearing impaired UWE This feature providesinformation redundancy by presenting a visual equivalent of the auditory information presented.

(3) Monitor Display. The requirement to enhance text size, reproduce text verbally, ormodify display characteristics is crucial for some users with visual disabilities. To ensure thatthis access continues, the following capabilities are required:

(a) Large Print Display. There should be a means for enlarging a portion of thescreen for the low vision user. The process uses a window or similar mechanism that allowsmagnification to be controlled by the user. A user can invoke the large print display capabilityfrom the keyboard or control pad for use in conjunction with any work-related applicationssoftware. If applications software includes graphics, then enlargement of graphic displays shouldalso be available.

(b) Access to Visually Displayed Information. The capability to access the screen isnecessary to support the speech and/or braille output requirement of many blind users.Currently, blind users are able to select and review the spoken or braille equivalent of text fromany portion of the screen while using standard applications software. Third party vendors shouldcontinue to have access to the screen contents in a manner that can be translated and directedto any internal speech chip, a speech synthesizer on a serial or parallel port, or a braille displaydevice. Information that is presented pictorially also needs to be available in a manner that, assoftware sophistication improves, it may be eventually translated using alternate display systems.

(c) Color Presentation. When colors must be distinguished in order to understandinformation on the display, color-blind end users should be provided with a means of selectingthe colors to be displayed.

c. Documentation. The vendor should be responsive in supplying copies of thedocumentation in a usable electronic format to disabled Federal employees.

J-4

9. information and assistance.

Within 30 days after the publication of this bulletin, comments can be submitted to:

General Services AdministrationKMPR, Project: 88.07B18th & F Streets, N.W.Washington, D.C. 20405.

General inquiries about the contents of this bulletin or information concerning updates tothis bulletin should be directed to Margaret Truntich or Mary Anderson, Regulations Branch(KMPR), telephone (202) 566-0194 or FTS, 566-0194. Susan A. Brummel of COCA, telephone(202) 523-1906 or FTS, 523-1906, may be contacted for technical advice and assistanceregarding the guidelines.

Original signed by:PATRICIA A. SZERVOCommissionerInformation ResourcesManagement Service

J-5

APPENDIX K

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONWASHINGTON, DC 20405

April 27, 1987

FIRMR BULLETIN 48

TO: Heads of Federal agencies

SUBJECT: Continuity of Computer Accommodation for Handicapped Employees WhenReplacing Automatic Data Processing Equipment (ADPE) Systems

1. Purpose. This bulletin provides information and guidance to managers in the FederalGovernment regarding their continuing management responsibility when replacing existingADPE systems to provide for the special computer accommodation needs of handicappedemployees.

2. Expiration date. This bulletin remains in effect until canceled or superseded.

3. Background.

a. Workstations for many Federal employees with sensory, cognitive, or motor impairmentshave been equipped with special peripherals and/or software that provide access to advancedcomputer technology primarily through personal computers. This accessibility is the necessarylink that enables handicapped employees to function efficiently and effectively on the job.

b. Unfortunately, handicapped employees may be at risk of losing their current levels ofsystem access and functionality when agencies conduct procurements to replace existing ADPEsystems. The loss is generally attributed to the ever increasing sophistication of newer ADPE.The increasing sophistication of ADPE is a significant problem to accommodation productdevelopers who are generally small companies or individuals without access to the proprietarytechnical documentation of ADPE manufacturers.

c. Agencies should pay particular attention to the needs of their handicapped employeesto ensure the needs continue to be met. Under 29 CFR 1613.704 on reasonableaccommodations, Federal agencies are required to make reasonable accommodations to theknown physical or mental limitations of a qualified handicapped applicant or employee unlessthe accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the agency.

4. Agency responsibilities.

a. Computer accommodation functionality in ADPE system replacements can be achievedonly if each agency willingly seizes the initiative. In performing determinations of need andrequirements analyses (See FIRMR Section 201-30.007) for ADPE equipment systemreplacement procurements, the special computer accommodation needs of handicappedemployees should be expressly included. This management action is essential to enablehandicapped employees affected by the system replacement effort to continue to perform asproductive, valued employees. Federal agencies may want to use the following approach toaddressing requirements in replacement solicitations for ADPE systems where there isdocumented need to provide computer accommodation for handicapped employees:

K-1

(1)The solicitation should provide an inventory of the accommodation hardware(alternate input/output devices) and/or software that is being used with the ADPE systemscheduled for replacement. Each accommodation item should be fully described with specialattention paid to its salient characteristics. Offerors should be asked to submit a plan, themethodology, and unit prices that will ensure the continued "functionally equivalent or better"access and use of the proposed replacement system.

(2) The solicitation should also request pricing (perhaps on an hourly call-in availabilitybasis throughout the life of the contract) for the services of a systems engineer that will beavailable to advise, assist, and resolve any communications or interfacing problems implicit inproviding computer accommodation access. -

(3) Further, the solicitation should include a contract provision that permits theGovernment to install additional accommodation devices, peripherals, or software that areacquired from a third party. This provision should state that accommodation devices and/orperipherals may be added to the system being acquired without voiding the maintenance andwarranty agreements of the contract if those devices or peripherals conform to the electricalspecifications of the system and can be connected through the standard expansion slots orperipheral ports. The provision may also state that any additional modifications beyond thosestipulated (in the requirements statement) are not permitted under the contract without theexpress permission of the contractor.

b. In certain instances, the accommodation needs of an agency can be responded tomore effectively and efficiently on an individual case-by-case basis rather than through totalsystem replacement. Such requirements may be unique, limited in scope, or limited in size.Thus the small purchase procedures set forth in Part 13 of the Federal Acquisition Regulationshould then be followed.

5. Information or assistance.

Inquiries about the procurement aspects of this bulletin should be directed to Phillip R.Patton, Regulations Branch (KMPR), telephone (202) 566-0194 or FTS, 566-0194. TheClearinghouse on Computer Accommodation (See FIRMR Bulletin 42), telephone (202) 523-1906or FTS, 523-1906, may be contacted for technical advice and assistance regarding this bulletin.

Original signed by:FRANK J. CARRCommissionerInformation Resources Management Service

K-2

APPENDIX L

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONWashington, DC 20405

• June 20, 1986

FIRMR BULLETIN 42

TO: Heads of Federal agencies

SUBJECT: Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation - COCA

1. Purpose. This bulletin describes the services provided by the Clearinghouse on ComputerAccommodation (COCA). The clearinghouse is an information resource center that assists anyelement of the Federal Government with projects using computer technology to accommodatedisabled employees.

2. Expiration Date. This bulletin remains in effect until canceled or superseded.

a Background. The Clearinghouse on Computer Accommodation is an organization withinthe Information Resources Management Service (IRMS) of the General Services Administration(GSA). Computer accommodation is the acquisition and modification of end user computingequipment to minimize the functional limitations of employees in order to promote productivityand to ensure access to work-related information resources. The COCA staff is composed ofcomputer specialists with background in computer accommodation, systems hardware andsoftware, and communications.

4. Services provided by COCA. Upon request for assistance, the COCA:

a. Responds to computer accommodation requests for general information on frequentlyused hardware/software and workstation furnishings to accommodate individuals withdisabilities;

b. Researches specific hardware/software and communications problems associated withemployee's accommodation requirements;

c. Provides on-going consultative/technical assistance to agencies during planning,acquisition, and installation of individual and agency-wide office automation systems; and

d. Conducts courses on computer accommodation procedures through the GSA TrainingCenter.

5. Information or assistance. Information or assistance may be obtained by contacting theCOCA staff at:

General Services AdministrationApplications Support Division (KGD)Washington, DC 20405Voice or TDD: FTS 523-1906 or (202) 523-1906

Original signed by:FRANK J. CARRCommissionerInformation Resources Management Service

L-1

APPENDIX M

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONWashington, DC 20405 September 10, 1985

GSA BULLETIN FPMR H-45 UTILIZATION AND DISPOSALTO: Heads of Federal agenciesSUBJECT: Transfer of specialized equipment used by handicapped Federal employees

1. Purpose. This bulletin is issued to publicize available procedures for the transfer ofspecialized equipment when a handicapped Federal employee transfers from one Federalagency to another.

2. Expiration date. This bulletin remains in effect until August 31, 1987, unless otherwisesuperseded or canceled.

3. Background. On June 20, 1985, the Interagency Committee on Handicapped Employees(ICHE) adopted a resolution calling for the General Services Administration (GSA) to publishinstructions that would permit Federal agencies to expedite transfers of furniture and/orequipment needed to provide reasonable accommodations for a handicapped Federal employeewhen that employee transfers between agencies.

4. Applicable items. Specialized furniture and/or equipment includes ergonomic chairs,orthopedic supports, modified workstations, audio amplifiers, and items of a similar natureprocured or acquired in direct support of handicapped employees. These items are eligible fortransfer with a handicapped employee to another agency provided the owning agency no longerhas a requirement for the property in support of its mission.

5. Transfer procedures.a. Regulations governing the transfer of excess personal property are contained in FPMR

101-43.315. Under FPMR 101-43.315-5(a), Federal agencies may effect direct transfers ofreportable property with an acquisition cost not exceeding $2000 and nonreportable propertywith an acquisition cost of $25,000 or less. Such transfers do not require prior GSA approval ifthe property either has not yet been reported to GSA or, in the case of nonreportable property,has not been reserved for special screening by GSA. Agencies involved in transfers ofhandicapped employees may use direct transfer provisions for specialized equipment assignedto the employees or other standard procedures for excess transfers in FPMR 101-43.315.

b. In those cases where specialized equipment does not meet direct transfer criteria underFPMR 101-43.315-5(a), GSA will make every effort to facilitate transfers between agencies.Procedures are in place permitting agencies to prearrange transfers of excess property. Underthese procedures, the agencies involved in the transfer of a handicapped employee maycoordinate the transfer of specialized equipment used by the employee and send a StandardForm. 122, Transfer Order Excess Personal Property, to the appropriate GSA regional office.Approval of such transfer requests is normally automatic and a Standard Form 120, Report ofExcess Personal Property, is not required in these cases.

6. Additional information. Any requests for additional information regarding these proceduresmay be directed to the applicable GSA Customer Service Bureau or the General ServicesAdministration (FMU), Washington, D.C. 20406.

By delegation of the Assistant Administrator

Original signed by:JAMES J. GRADY, JR.Director of Policyand Agency Assistance

M -1

APPENDIX N

CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS ONREASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

Title 29, Section 1613.704 .

"a. An agency shall make reasonable accommodation to the known physical or mentallimitations of a qualified applicant or employee unless the agency can demonstrate that theaccommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of its program.

b. Reasonable accommodation may include, but shall not be limited to: 1) Making facilitiesreadily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons; and 2) job restructuring, part-time ormodified work schedules, acquisition or modification of equipment or devices, appropriateadjustment or modification of examinations, the provision of readers and interpreters, and othersimilar actions.

a In determining pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section whether an accommodationwould impose an undue hardship on the operation of the agency in question, factors to beconsidered include: 1) The overall size of the agency's program with respect to the number ofemployees, number and type of facilities, and size of budget; 2) the type of agency operation,including the composition and structure of the agency's work force; and 3) the nature and costof the accommodation."

N-1

APPENDIX 0REPRESENTATIVE ACCOMMODATION PRODUCTS

This list of computer-based products compiled by COCA is not a definitive list of all computer_accommodation hardware and software add-ons available in the marketplace; rather it is agrowing collection of resources familiar to COCA. Inclusion of a product or service on this list inno way implies endorsement by the General Services Administration, the Clearinghouse onComputer Accommodation, or their employees.

Wherever possible we tiave indicated the equipment types that are compatible with listedproducts, as well as a range of prices for the products (or categories of products) offered by thevarious manufacturers. While we have made every effort to ensure that this information isaccurate as of the date of publishing, users of this information should be aware that productsand prices are subject to change, and that up-to-date information is best obtained directly fromthe providers listed.

Manufacturers of computer accommodation hardware and software add-on products who wishto be included in this list, or who wish to update current information are invited to submitproduct information, including prices, directly to COCA at the following address:

GSA - IRMSClearinghouse on Computer AccommodationRoom 2022, KGDO18th and F Streets NWWashington DC 20405

0-1

Appendix 0COMPUTER-BASED PRODUCTS INDEX

I. InputA. Keyboard Enhancements ........................................................................... 0- 3B. Alternative input Devices ........................................................................... 0- 8C. Optical Character Readers ......................................................................... 0-11D. Speech...Input .......................... 0-13E. Braille Input Devices ........................................................................ 0-15

H. OutputA. Speech Output—screen-reading software ................................................... 0-16B. Speech Output—speech synthesizer ........................................................... 0-19C. Speech Output—calculator ......................................................................... 0-20D. Large Print Display .................................................................................... 0-21E. Braille Output Display ................................................................................. 0.23F. Braille Output—printerlembosser ................................................................ 0-24G. Braille Output—braille translation software .................................................. 0-25H. Large Print Output ..................................................................................... 0-26

III. TelecommunicationsA. Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf .............................................. 0-26B. Portable Terminals ..................................................................................... 0-28C. Amplified Handsets ..................................................................................... 0-29D. Headsets ................................................................................................... 0-29E. Telephone Aids .......................................................................................... 0-29

V. OtherA. Robotic Devices ........................................................................................ 0-31

0-2

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS;DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple II family

COMPUTER-BASED PRODUCTS

I. InputA. Keyboard Enhancements Compatibility/Prices

Ability Systems Corporation PC1422 Arnold Ave.Roslyn, PA 19001Telephone: (215) 657-43381. key scanner with sip and puff or

pneumatic joystick control $2850.00

Adaptive Communication Systems, Inc. Epson354 Hookstown Grade RoadClinton, PA 15026Telephone: (412) 264-22881. keyguards $24.95—$95.002. switches $195.00—$4,995.00

keylocks

Alpha Software PC1 North Ave.Burlington, MA 01803Telephone: (617) 229-29241. keyboard macros $89.95

Arts Computer Products, Inc PC145 Tremont St.Suite 407Boston, MA 02111Telephone: (617) 482-82481. keyboard configuration software $395.002. keylock light indicators $39.95

Borland International PC1800 Green Hills RoadScotts Valley, CA 95066Telephone: (408) 438-84001. keyboard macro software

0-3

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS-DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple II family

Brown & Co., Inc.Box 2443South Hamilton, MA 01982Telephone: (508) 468-74641. foot pedal

ComputAbility Corporation101 Route 46 EastPine Brook, NJ 07058Telephone: (201) 882-01711. keyguards2. membrane keyguard kita switches4. keyboard and mouse emulations

COPH-22020 Irving Park RoadChicago, IL 60618Telephone: (312) 866-81951. keyguards

Don JohnstonDevelopmental EquipmentP.O. Box 639Wauconda, IL 60084Telephone: (312) 526-26821. keyguards2. switches

Dvorak International11 Pearl StreetBrandon, VT 05733Telephone: (802) 247-60201. alternative keyboard configuration

Extensions for Independence757 Emory StreetSuite 514Imperial Beach, CA 92032-0976Telephone: (619) 423-77091. stick-on keylocks

PC

$79.95

A

$79.95$120.00$35.00--385.00

PC

Keyguards: PC, A,Commodore 64, VIC 20

Switches: A

$24.95—$89.50$11.50—$195.00

PC

0-4


Fulcrum Computer Products PC459 Allan CourtHealdsburg, CA 95448Telephone: (707) 433-02021. trackball and switch enhancements

for CAD/CAM environment

Genest Technologies, Inc. PC3505 Cadillac Ave.Building K-1Costa Mesa, CA 92626Telephone: (714) 545-50401. keyboard macros

Hooleon Corporation PCPage Springs RoadP.O. Box 201Cornville, AZ 86325Telephone: (602) 634-75151. custom keycaps

Independence Microsystems PC1612 Walnut Street #2NBerkeley, CA 94709Telephone: (415) 845-44241. one finger keyboard input

In Touch Systems PC11 Westview RoadSpring Valley, NY 10977Telephone: (914) 354-74311. single hand keyboard use

Mc Systems Inc.3121 Benton DriveGarland, TX 75042Telephone: (800) 533-4822

(214) 494-30731. trackball mouse emulation

ITC Electronic Bulletin BoardTelephone: (202) 376-21841. key lock software

Kinetic Designs, Inc. PC14231 AnatevkaOlaIla, WA 98359Telephone: (206) 857-79431. keyboard configuration/accommodation software2. morse code input system


Loyola College PC4501 N. Charles StreetBaltimore, MD 21210Telephone: (301) 323-10101. one finger keyboard input

Maverick . Software, Inc. PCPA. Box 998Melrose, MA 02176Telephone: (617) 662-08561. keyboard macros

Prentke-Romich Company PC, A, Commodore,1022 Heyl Road Franklin, TI, AtariWooster, OH 44691Telephone: (216) 262-1984

(800) 642-82551. keyguards $85.00-4100.002. switches varies by type3. alternate input devices $1492.00

Productivity Software International, Inc. PC1220 BroadwayNew York, NY 10001Telephone: (212) 967-86661. keyboard macro software $89.952. keyboard reconfiguration (sticky keys) $9.95

RoseSoft, Inc. PCP.O. Box 70337Bellevue, WA 98007Telephone: (206) 454-74241. keyboard macro software $130.00

0-6

Compatibility Codes: PC product is MS-DOS compatible;A product is compatible with Apple II family

Technical Aids and Systems for A, PC, Commodore 64the Handicapped, Inc. (TASH) VIC 2070 Gibson DriveUnit 12Markham, ON Canada L3R 4CZTelephone: (416) 475-22121. keyguards $44.00—$175.002. keylocks $44.00a switches Price Varies

T.S. Micro Tech Inc. PC12565 Crenshaw BoulevardHawthorne, CA 90250Telephone: (213) 644-08591. add-on function keyboard

Typewriting Institute For A, PCThe Handicapped3102 West Augusta AvenuePhoenix, AZ 85051Telephone: (602) 939.53441. one-handed keyboard $650.00

Unicorn Engineering Company A6201 Harwood AvenueOakland, CA 94618Telephone: (415) 428-16261. keyguards

Words+, Incorporated A, PC, Grid, EpsonPO. Box 1229Lancaster, CA 93534Telephone: (805) 949-83311. keyguards $25.00—$75.002. keyboard macros

0-7


B. Alternative Input Devices

Bloorview Childrens HospitalResource Centre25 Buchan CourtVVillowdale, ON M2J4S9CanadaTelephone: (416) 494-22221. miniature keyboard

ComputAbility Corporation101 Route 46 EastPine Brook, NJ 07058Telephone: (201) 882-01711. alternative CAD interfaces2. mini-keyboards

Cybernetics918 Rothowood RoadLynchburg, VA 24503Telephone: (804) 384-1476

(804) 384-75381. alternative input system using scanner or morse code

Designing Aids for Disabled Adults (DADA)1076 BathurstSuite #202Toronto, ON, Canada M5R 3G9Telephone: (416) 533-44941. serial or parallel alternative input device

Don JohnstonDevelopmental EquipmentP.O. Box 639Wauconda, IL 60084Telephone: (312) 526-26821. alternative input using scanning or morse code

DU-IT Control Systems Group, Inc.8765 Township Road #513Shreve, OH 44676Telephone: (216) 567-29061. computer work-station for severe mobility impairment2. environment control functions

PC

A

$595.00

PC

PC

$40.00-250.00

1<eyguards: PC, A,Commodore 64, VIC 20

Switches: A

PC

0.8

Compatibility Codes: PC product is MS-DOS compatible;A product is compatible with Apple II family

EKEG Electronics Company, LTDPO. Box 46199, Station 'G'Vancouver, BC, Canada V6R 4G5Telephone: (604) 27343581. expanded keyboard $350.00-975.00

intex Micro Systems CorporationP0. Box 12310Birmingham, MI 48012Telephone: (313) 540-76011. membrane keyboard stand alone or

serial port connection to PC2. keyboard speech output system

In Touch Systems11 Westview RoadSpring Valley, NY 10977Telephone: (914) 354-74311. miniature keyboard

(SCAN, Inc.125 Cambridge Park DrivePA. Box 2076Cambridge, MA 02238Telephone: (617) 868-53531. pointer system keyboard input2. alternative CAD/CAM data entry

Key TronicPO. Box 14687Spokane, WA 99214Telephone: (800) 262-6006Washington: (509) 928-80001. alternative keyboards $159.00-4255.00

Kinetic Designs, Inc. PC14231 AnatevkaDana, WA 98359Telephone: (206) 857-79431. morse code input system

LC Technologies, Inc.4415 Glenn Rose St.Fairfax, VA 22032Telephone: (703) 425-75091. eye-gaze input system

$249500

PC

PC

PC, A, Commodore 64

0-9

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS-DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple H family

PCPointer SystemsOne Mill StreetBurlington, VT 05401Telephone: (800) 537-1562

(802) 658-32601. head pointing input system

Polytel Computer Products Corp.1250 Oakmead Parkway, Suite 310Sunnyvale, CA 94086Telephone: (408) 730-1347

(800) 245-66551. configurable membrane keyboard to

augment functions of standard keyboard

Prentke-Romich Company1022 Heyl RoadWooster, OH 44691Telephone: (216) 262-1984

(800) 642-82551. alternate input devices

Regenesis Development Corporation4381 Gallant AvenueNorth Vancouver, BC V7G 11.1CanadaTelephone: (604) 929-24141. expanded keyboard2. morse code input systema scanning input system

Sentient Systems Technology, Inc.5001 Baum BoulevardPittsburgh, PA 15213Telephone: (412) 682-01441. eye-controlled input system

Technical Aids and Systems forthe Handicapped, Inc. (TASH)70 Gibson DriveUnit 12Markham, ON Canada L3R 4C2Telephone: (416) 475-22121. various expanded keyboards

$1095.00

PC

$119—$195

PC, A, Commodore,Franklin, TI, Atari

$1492.00

PC

A, PC

$2995.00

A, PC, Commodore 64VIC 20

0-10

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS-DOS compatible;A product is compatible with Apple II family

Unicorn Engineering Company6201 Harwood AvenueOakland, CA 94618Telephone: (415) 428-16261. expanded keyboard2. large keyboard

Words+, IncorporatedP.O. Box 1229Lancaster, CA 93534Telephone: (805) 949-83311. expanded keyboards2. alternate input device3. optical pointer4. morse code input

World Communications501 Glenmoor CircleMilpitas, CA 95035Telephone: (408) 262-28701. word processing software optimized for use with

alternative input devices

Zygo Industries, Inc.PO. Box 1008Portland, OR 97207-1008Telephone: (503) 684-60061. switches2. scanning input device

C. Optical Character ReadersAdhoc Reading Systems, Inc.28 Brunswick Woods DriveEast Brunswick, NJ 08816Telephone: (201) 254-73001. scanner that can direct output

to an internal speech synthesizer

Advanced Vision Research Inc.2201 Oume DriveSan Jose, CA 95131Telephone: (408) 434-11151. text and graphics scanner

$295.00-350.00

A, PC, Grid, Epson

$395.00—$995.00$30.00—$55.75$375.00

PC

Price varies by type

PC

PC

0-11


PCDest Corporation1201 Cadillac CourtMilpitas, CA 95035Telephone: (800) 538-7582

(408) 946-71001. optical character scanner

Flagstaff Engineering1120 KaibabFlagstaff, AZ 86001Telephone: (602) 779-33411. graphics and text scanner

IBM CorporationTelephone: (800) 426-33331. desktop scanner

Kurzweil Computer Products, Inc.185 Albany StreetCambridge, MA 02139Telephone: (800) 343-0311

(617) 864-47001. desktop optical character and graphics scanner2. scanner with speech output

Microtek Inc.680 Knox StreetTorrence, CA 90502Telephone: (213) 321-21211. medium resolution scanner2. menu driven scanner software

Soricon Corporation4725 Walnut StreetBoulder, CO 80301Telephone: (800) 541-7226

(303) 442-28001. hand held scanner

Totec Company, LTDSuite 16105201 Leesburg PikeFalls Church, VA 22041Telephone: (703) 998-61771. OCR with speech output

Truvel Corporation1880 Crenshaw Blvd.Suite 153Torrance, CA 90501Telephone: (213) 533-49711. text and graphics scanner2. ability to scan pages up to 12" x 18"

.PC

PC, PS/2

PC

PC

PC

0-12

Compatibility Codes: PC st product is MS-DOS compatible;A product is compatible with Apple 11 family

D. Speech InputDragon Systems, Inc. PCChapel Bridge Park90 Bridge StreetNewton, MA 02158Telephone: (617) 965-52001. speech recognition system $995.00-4500.00

IBM Corporation PCTelephone: (800) 426-24681. voice activated keyboard utility

International Voice Products14251-B Chambers RoadTustin, CA 92680Telephone: (714) 544-17111. speech recognition system

PC

$1010.00—$5200.00

Key Tronic PCP.O. Box 14687Spokane, WA 99214Telephone: (800) 262-6006Washington: (509) 928-80001. speech recognition keyboard $995.00

Kurzweil Applied Intelligence PC411 Waverly Oaks RoadWaltham, MA 02154Telephone: (617) 893-51511. speech recognition system $6500.00

MTI, Inc. PC14711 NE 29th PlaceSuite 245Bellevue, WA 98007Telephone: (206) 881-17891. speech input system $700.00

0-13


NEC America, Inc. PC8 Old Sod Farm RoadMelville, NY 11747Telephone: (516) 753-73611. speech recognition2. word prediction

Power Var PC2691 Dow AvenueSuite FTustin, CA 92680Telephone: (714) 544-99411. speech input/output hardware and

software system

Nab Command, Inc. PC5140 Sprinkle RoadKalamazoo, MI 49002Telephone: (616) 383-4400FAX: (616) 383-44221. speech recognition system

Scott Instruments Corporation PC1111 Willow Springs DriveDenton, TX 76205Telephone: (817) 387-95141. speech recognition system $8995.00

Speech Systems Incorporated PC18356 Oxnard StreetTarzana, CA 91356Telephone: (818) 881-08851. speech recognition system

Supersoft PCBox 1628Champaign, IL 61820Telephone: (217) 359-21121. speech recognition system

Transceptor Technologies, Inc.1327 JonesSuite #105Ann Arbor, MI 48105Telephone: (313) 996-18991. Voice driven computer and communication systems

0-14

•


Voice Connection17835 Skypark Circle, Suite CIrvine, CA 92714Telephone: (714) 261.23661. speech recognition system2. CAD/CAM speech input3. hand held computer with voice input system

Votan4487 Technology DriveFremont, CA 94538Telephone: (415) 490-76001. speech recognition systems

Words+, IncorporatedPO. Box 1229Lancaster, CA 93534Telephone: (805) 949-83311. speech recognition system

E. Braille Input DevicesAmerican Printing House for the Blind1839 Frankfurt Ave.P.O. Box 6085Louisville, KY 40206Telephone: (502) 895-2405

Blazie Engineering3660 Mill Green RoadStreet, MD 21154Telephone: (301) 879-49441. braille note-taker and terminal

Southland Manufacturing Co.680 Bizzell. Dr.Lexington, KY 40510Telephone: (606) 253-3066

Telesensory Systems, Inc.455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043-5274Telephone: (415) 960-09201. braille terminal2. refreshable braille display

A, PC

$795.00-995.00(A)$495.00-995.00(PC)

$1200.00—$4800.00

PC, Epson

$995.00—$2275.00

PC, A, Macintosh

$895.00—$945.00

PC

$5495.00—$9485.00

0-15


II. OutputA. Speech Output—screen-reading software

Adaptive Communication Systems, Inc. A354 Hookstown Grade RoadClinton, PA 15026Telephone: (412) 264-22881. speech output to augment communication $2495.00

American Printing House for the Blind PC1839 Frankfurt Ave.P.O. Box 6085Louisville, KY 40206Telephone: (502) 895-24051. speech access system: Speaqualizer

Artic Technologies PC55 Park Street, Suite #2Troy, MI 48083Telephone: (313) 588-73701. screen reading software:

Business Vision, Artic Vision, Crystal

Arts Computer Products, Inc. PC145 Tremont StreetSuite 407Boston, MA 02111Telephone: (617) 482-82481. screen reading software $690.00—$1895.00

Computer Aids Corporation PC124 West Washington BoulevardSuite 220Fort Wayne, IN 46802Telephone: (219) 422-24241. screen reading software: $395.00

Screen Talk Pro

Computer Conversations, Inc.6297 Worthington Rd. SWAlexandria, OH 43001Telephone: (614) 924-33251. screen reading software:

Verbal Operating System

PC

$550.00

0-16

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS-DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple 11 family

Enabling Technologies3102 S.E. Jay StreetStuart, FL 34997Telephone: (407) 283-48171. reading software (includes synthesizer)2. Enable Reader public domain software3. screen reading software: VP

Grassroots ComputingP.O. Box 460Berkeley, CA 94701Telephone: (415) 644-18551. screen reading software: Video-Voice

Henter-Joyce, Inc.7901 4th Street North Suite #211St. Petersburg, FL 33702Telephone: (813) 576-56581. screen reading software: JAWS

HFK Software68 Wells RoadLincoln, MA 01773Telephone: (617) 259-00591. Owerty family of speaking software

PC

$2695.00

PC

HumanWare, Inc. PCHorseshoe Bar Plaza6140 Horseshoe Bar Road—Suite PLoomis, CA 95650Telephone: (800) 722-3393

(916) 652-72531. laptop PC with built-in speech synthesis

IBM National Support Center for PS/2Persons with DisabilitiesP.O. Box 2150Atlanta, GA 30055Telephone: (800) 426-2133 Voice or TDD

(404) 988-2733(404) 988-2729 TDD

1. screen reader software2. 3278 emulation screen reading software $630.00

Interface Systems International PCP.O. Box 20415Portland, OR 97220Telephone: (503) 256-32141. screen reading software: Freedom I $499.00

0-17

•


PCKansys, Inc.1016 Ohio StreetLawrence, KS 66044Telephone: (913) 842-40161. screen reading software: Provox

Omnichron1438 Oxford AvenueBerkeley, CA 94709Telephone: (415) 540-64551. screen reading software: Flipper

Personal Data Systems Inc.100 W. Rincon, Suite 207Campbell, CA 95008Telephone: (408) 866-11261. screen reading system

Power Var2691 Dow AvenueSuite FTustin, CA 92680Telephone: (714) 544-99411. screen reading software

Raised Dot Computing408 South Baldwin StreetMadison, WI 53703Telephone: (608) 257-95951. screen reading software

PC

PC

A, PC

$100.00—$400.00

0-18


Syn-Talk Systems and Services PC70 Estero AvenueSan Francisco, CA 94127Telephone: (415) 334-05861. screen reading system $770.00—$1500.00

Telesensory Systems, Inc. PC455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043-5274Telephone: (415) 960-09201. SoftVert screen reading software $495.002. VertPlus speech-access software $2400.00a 3278 Vert screen reading software

B. Speech Output—speech synthesizerAdhoc Reading Systems, Inc.28 Brunswick Woods DriveEast Brunswick, NJ 08816Telephone: (201) 254-73001. speech synthesizer that supports

several languages: VoxBox

AICOM Company2375 Zenker RoadSuite 205San Jose, CA 95131Telephone: (408) 922-08551. speech synthesizer: Accent

Artic Technologies55 Park StreetSuite 2Troy, MI 48083Telephone: (313) 588-73701. speech synthesizers

Blazie Engineering3660 Mill Green RoadStreet, MD 21154Telephone: (301) 879-49441. braille note taker with speech output

. Computer Aids Corporation124 W. Washington Blvd.Suite 220Fort Wayne, IN 46802Telephone: (800) 647-8255

(219) 422-24241. speech synthesizer

PC

PC

PC

$250.00

0-19


Digital Equipment Corporation A, PCCSS SupportContinental BlvdMS: MK 01Marrimack, NH 03054Telephone: (800) 832-62771. DECtalk speech synthesizer $4000.00-24000.00

intex Micro Systems Corporation A, PCP.O. Box 12310Birmingham, MI 48012Telephone: (315) 540-76011. speech synthesizer: Intex Talker $345.00—$2495.00

Personal Data Systems, Inc.100 W. Rincon, Suite 207Campbell, CA 95008Telephone: (408) 866-1126

Speech Plus, Inc. A, PC1293 Anvilwood AvenueSunnyvale, CA 94089Telephone: (408) 745-18181. speech synthesizer: Call Text 5000, $3225.00—$3900.00

Prose 2020

Street Electronics Corporation6420 ViarealCarpinteria, CA 93103Telephone: (805) 684-45931. speech synthesizer: Echo PC,

Echo PC2

Votrax International, Inc.1394 Rankin DriveTroy, MI 48083Telephone: (313) 588-20501. speech synthesizer: Personal Speech System2. Type-'N-Talk

C. Speech Output—CalculatorCanon, U.S.A., Inc.1 Canon PlazaLake Success, NY 11042Telephone: (516) 488-67001. speech output calculator

A, PC

$149.00—$249.95

A, PC

$99.95—$449.00

$395.00—$900.00

0.20

Berkeley Systems1700 Shattuck AvenueBerkeley, CA 94709Telephone: (415) 540-55361. large print display software

Florida New Concepts, Inc.P.O. Box 261Port Richey, FL 34673-0261Telephone: (813) 842-3231

(800) 635-6366 ext. 4711. magnifying lens for monitor

A, Macintosh

$95.00

$189.95

PC


Sharp Electronics CorporationSharp PlazaMakway, NJ 07430Telephone: (201) 529-82001. speech output calculator

TARMAC, Inc.71 North Market StreetAsheville, NC 28801Telephone: (704) 254-63611. speech output calculator

D. Large Print DisplayAl Squared PC1463 Hearst Drive, NEAtlanta, GA 30319Telephone: (404) 233-70651. large print display software $495.00

Arts Computer Products, Inc. PC145 Tremont Street, Suite 407Boston, MA 02111Telephone: (617) 482-82481. large print display software $690.00


HumanWare, Inc.6140 Horseshoe Bar RoadSuite PLoomis, CA 95650Telephone: (916) 652-7253

(800) 722-33931. Viewscan portable large print reading

device with hand scan camera $4295.002. Viewscan Text System—adds a

notetakedwoni processor $5600.00—$6895.00

National Institute for Rehabilitation EngineeringBox THewitt, NJ 07421Telephone: (201) 853-65851. large type word processing program

- may be printed in standard or large type

OptelecOptical and Electronic Applications Specialists325 Ayer RoadHarvard, MA 01451Telephone: (508) 772-33951. large print software2. closed circuit television

Overseer Electronic Visual Aids Corporation6826 Logan Ave., SouthRichfield, MI 55423Telephone: (612) 456-7734

(612) 866-76061. Closed circuit television

Pelco Sales, Inc. PC300 W. Pontiac WayClovis, CA 93612-5699Telephone: (800) 421-1146

(209) 292-19811. closed circuit television

0-22

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS-DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple H family

Telesensory Systems, Inc.455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043-5274Telephone: (800) 227-8418

(415) 960-09201. large print display system

VisionWare Software, Inc. PC.P.O. Box 1676Brookline, MA 02146Telephone: (508) 772-33951. large print display software $500.00

VTEK, Inc. A, PC1625 Olympic BoulevardSanta Monica, CA 90404Telephone: (213) 452-59661. large print display system $269500

Washington Computer Services PC, PS/22601 North Shore RoadBellingham, WA 98226.Telephone: (206) 734-82481. large print display software

E. Braille Output DisplayEnabling Technologies PC3102 Southeast Jay StreetStuart, FL 33497Telephone: (407) 283-48171. braille screen review system


(800) 227-84181. braille screen review system

All—Hardware

$5495.00—$9485.00

0-23


VTEK, Inc. PC, A1625 Olympic Blvd.Santa Monica, CA 90404Telephone: (213) 452-59661. braille screen review system $3495.00

Braille Output—printerlembosserAmerican Thermoform Corporation2311 Travers AvenueCity of Commerce, CA 90040Telephone: (213) 723-90211. Ohtsuki braille/text printer

Arts Computer Products, Inc. PC145 Tremont Street, Suite 407Boston, MA 02111Telephone: (617) 482-82481. braille printer $1100.00-1500.00

Enabling Technologies Inc. A, PC3102 Southeast Jay StreetStuart, FL 33497Telephone: (407) 283-48171. personal and production capacity

braille printers $2750.00-47500.00

HumanWare, Inc.6140 Horsehoe Bar RoadSuite PLoomis, CA 95650Telephone: (916) 652-7253

(800) 722-33931. Braille-n-Print—braille and typed

text from a Perkins Brailler $875.00

Telesensory Systems, Inc. A, PC455 N. Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043-5274Telephone: (415) 960-0920

(800) 227-84181. braille printer $3595.00

VTEK A, PC1625 Olympic BoulevardSanta Monica, CA 90404Telephone: (213) 452-59661. braille printer $2750.00

0-24

Compatibility Codes: PC = product Is MS-DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple II family

G. Braille Output—braille translation softwareArts Computer Products, Inc.145 Tremont Street, Suite 407Boston, MA 02111Telephone: (617) 482-82481. braille translation software

Computer Aids Corporation124 W. Washington Blvd.Suite 220Fort Wayne, IN 46802Telephone: (219) 422-2424

(800) 647-82551. produces braille bar charts2. braille translation software

PC

$495.00—$3500.00

PC

Duxbury Systems, Inc. A, PC,435 King StreetP.O. Box 1504Littleton, MA 01460Telephone: (508) 486-97661. braille translation software $495.011—$895.00

Enabling Technologies PC3102 Southeast Jay StreetStuart, FL 33497Telephone: (407) 283-48171. braille translation software

intelligent Information TechnologiesStation A, Box 50021408 W. UniversityUrbana, IL 61801Telephone: (217) 359-79331. braille translation software $135.00

Raised Dot Computing, Inc. PC408 South Baldwin StreetMadison, WI 53703Telephone: (608) 257-95951. braille translation software

Roudley Associates, Inc. PCP.O Box 608Owings Mills, MD 21117Telephone: (301) 363-08341. braille translation software

0-25


Telesensory Systems, Inc. PC455 North Bernardo AvenueMountain View, CA 94043-5274Telephone: (800) 227-8418

(415) 960-09201. produces braille graphic images

H. Large Print OutputArts Computer Products, Inc. PC Macintosh145 Tremont StreetSuite 407Boston, MA 02111Telephone: (617) 482-82481. large print for dot matrix printer $180.002. large print for Mac printer $95.00

Softcraft, Inc. PC16 North Carroll StreetSuite 500Madison, WI 53703Telephone: (800) 351-0500

. (608) 257-33001. large print for dot matrix printers

Washington Computer Services PC2601 North Shore RoadBellingham, WA 98226Telephone: (206) 734-82481. large print software

Worthington Data Solutions PC417A Ingalls StreetSanta Cruz, CA 95060Telephone: (408) 458-99381. large print for dot matrix printer

Ill. TelecommunicationsA. Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf

American Communication Corporation180 Roberts StreetEast Hartford, CT 06108Telephone: (203) 289-3491 $199.00

0-26

Compatibility Codes: PC product is MS-DOS compatible;A = product is compatible with Apple II family

AT&T Special Needs Center2001 Route 46Suite 310Parsippany, NJ 07054Telephone: (800) 233-1222 (Voice)

(800) 833-3232 (TDD)

Audio Tone Company2422 West HollyPhoenix, AZ 85009Telephone: (602) 254-5888

Auditory Display Inc.162 Schoolhouse LaneMt. Laurel, NJ 08054Telephone: (609) 234-4446

Cascade Medical10180 Viking DriveEden Prarie, MN 55344Telephone: (612) 941-7345 (Voice' & TDD)1. portable communicator communicates

with TDD or PC2. unit has built in voice synthesizer

Hitec Group International, Inc.8205 S. Cass AvenueSuite 109Darien, IL 60559Telephone: (312) 963-5588 (Voice & TDD)

Integrated Microcomputer Systems2 Research PlaceRockville, MD 20850Telephone: (301) 948-4790 (Voice)

(301) 948-5144 (TDD)

Krown Research Inc.10371 West Jefferson Blvd.Culver City, CA 90232Telephone: (800) 833-4968 (Voice & TDD)

(213) 839-0181

Nationwide Flashing Signal Systems8120 Fenton StreetSilver Spring, MD 20910Telephone: (301) 589-6671 (Voice & TDD)

$350.00

$1875.00

$299.00—$475.00

$289.00

0-27


Phone-TTY, Inc. PC202 Lexington AvenueHackensack, NJ 07601Telephone: (201) 489-7889 (Voice)

(201) 489 .7890 (TDD)1. modem and TDD emulator software for PC

Potomac Telecom, Inc.1010 Rockville PikeRockville, MD 20852Telephone: (301) 762-0851 (TDD)

(301) 762-4005 (Voice)

Precision Controls Inc.14 Doty RoadHaskell, NJ 07420Telephone: (201) 835-5000 (Voice & TDD) $199.00

Selective Technologies, Inc.10 BricIcetts Mill RoadHampstead, NH 03841Telephone: (800) 635-HEAR

(603) 329-8213 (Voice & TDD)

Specialized Systems Inc.2525 Pioneer Avenue #3Vista, CA 92083Telephone: (619) 598-7337 $279.00—$485.00

(800) 854-1559

Ultratec Inc.6442 Normandy LaneMadison, WI 53719Telephone: (608) 273-0707 (Voice & TDD) $159.00—$595.00

B. Portable TerminalsHumanWare, Inc.6140 Horseshoe Bar RoadSuite PLoomis, CA 95650Telephone: (916) 652-7253

(800) 722-33931. laptop computer with speech synthesis $24952. typewriter with speech synthesis $1095.00

0-28


Text Lite Communications, Inc.3505 Cadillac AvenueSuite N4Costa Mesa, CA 92626Telephone: (714) 850-09291. Pocket size, full keyboard with built-in acoustic coupler

and TTY/TDD function. On GSA ScheduleGS00K87AG5386.

•

C. Amplified Handsets


(800) 833-3232 (TDD)

Walker Equipment CorporationHighway 151 SouthRinggold, GA 30736Telephone: (800) 426-3738

(404) 935-2600

D. Headsets

ACS Communications250 Technology CircleScotts Valley, CA 95066Telephone: (800) 538-0742

(408) 438-3883

E. Telephone Aids


(800)-833-3232 (TDD)

$31.25

$39.95—$275.00

$434.95

0-29


Nationwide Flashing Signal Systems, Inc.8120 Fenton StreetSilver Spring, MD 20910Telephone: (301) 589-6671 (Voice)

(301) 589-6670 (TDD)

Potomac Telecom, Inc.1010 Rockville PikeRockville, MD 20852Telephone: (301) 762-0851 (TDD)

(301) 762-4005 (Voice)1. Flashing signaling system

Prab Command, Inc.5140 Sprinkle RoadKalamazoo, MI 49002Telephone: (616) 383-4400FAX: (616) 383-44221. speech controlled phone interface

$19.95—$68.95

PC

Precision Controls Inc.14 Doty RoadHaskell, NJ 07420Telephone: (201) 835-5000 (Voice or TDD)1. Telephone Ring Indicator $89.00

Scott Instruments PC1111 Willow DriveDenton, TX 76205Telephone: (817) 387-95141. software to support telephone access


(415) 960-09201. real time portable communications

aid for deaf-blind users

Ultratec, Inc.6442 Normandy LaneMadison, WI 53719Telephone: (608) 273-0707 (Voice & TDD)1. signaling devices2. large visual TDD displays

0-30

Compatibility Codes: PC = product is MS-DOS compatible;A product compatible with Apple II family

Votan PC4487 Technology DriveFremont, CA 94538Telephone: (415) 490-76001. software to support telephone access

IV. OtherA. Robotic Devices

Prab Command, Inc. PC5140 Sprinkle RoadKalamazoo, MI 49002Telephone: (616) 383-4400FAX: (616) 383-44221. speech controlled robotic arm with workstation

0-31

Miscellaneous

ACT for MS-DOS 127

128 ACT for MS-DOS

High Tech Center Furniture List

• Stands, VDT, Work Surface, 60" X 30" X 26 1/2", Oak, Hon Model 63371•Stands, VDT, Work Surface, 48" X 30" X 26 1/2", Oak, Hon Model 63351

• Stands, Printer, 30" x 24", Oak, Hon Model 63524

• Desks, VDT, Work Surface, 60" X 30" X 29 1/2", Oak, Hon Model 63471

• Chairs, Steno, Swivel, Gray, Hon Model Z36

•Work Station, Electronically Adjustable, Bourroughs Model 190

ACT for MS-DOS 129

•

130 ACT for MS-DOS

to

Notes

ACT for MS-DOS 131

•

132 ACT for MS-DOS