Information Technology and Disabilities Vol. III 1996
New CSUF Braille Transcription Center Promotes Access to
PostSecondary Instructional Mate
rials for the California State University System
Daniel Hilton Chalfen, Ph.D., University of California, Los Angeles
Jeffrey C. Senge, M.S., California State University, Full
erton
Jamie Dote-Kwan, Ph.D. California State University Los Angeles
A Brief Historical Overview of Tactile and
Auditory Aids for Visually Impaired Mathematic
s Educators and Students
Evelyn Kubiak-Becker, University of Wisconsin, Madison
Thomas P. Dick, Associate Professor, Oregon State University
Abstract: The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Curriculum and Evaluation Standards advocates the use of graphing calculators. As a visual learning tool, the graphical calculator has stirred a good deal of excitement. Unfortunately, graphing calculators are not accessible to the student who is blind or visually-impaired. This article chronicles a portion of the history of mathematical and graphing aids for the blind and presents a glimpse of the future.
Research Note:
The Braille 'N Speak as a Laboratory Tool for Blind Students
David Lunney, Margaret M. Gemperline, Angelo Sonnesso
and David Wohlers, East Carolina University
Abstract: Many instruments used today in educational science laboratories provide data in digital format. Frequently these instruments have an RS-232 serial port which allows digitized data to be easily transferred to a computer in ASCII format for automatic data logging. Many of these instruments can be externally controlled by sending ASCII commands entered on a keyboard or computer connected to the instrument's RS-232 port. The Braille 'n Speak, a "personal data assistant" (1) for blind people, manufactured by Blazie Engineering, can be used by blind students as a means of independent access to the instrumental data and as a means of controlling the instrument in such a case. This report details the success we have had in obtaining 2-way RS-232 communication between the Braille 'n Speak and many laboratory instruments.
Ease of Use and Maintenance:
A Note on Software Design
Richard Plant
Northern General Hospital
Sheffield S5 7AU U.K.
Dr. Andrew Rostron
Department of Psychology, University of Hull
Hull HU6 7RX U.K.
Abstract: Increasingly powerful hardware has prompted commercial software developers to concentrate not on highly efficient code but instead on usability. With much modern software sharing the same look and feel, a commercial edge can only be gained by increased usability leading to improved productivity. In the commercial world, usability ratings by NSTL (National Software Testing Labs) and similar institutions can affect sales significantly, in the same way that a poor review might prematurely end a play's run in the theatre.
Departments
Libraries
National Library Service (NLS) Information on the Internet
Submitted by Judith Dixon, Ph.D.
Online Information and Networking
Steve Noble, Department Editor
This issue is a special issue devoted to access to science, math, engineering and technology for people with disabilities.
ADDING AUDIO DESCRIPTION TO TELEVISION SCIENCE PROGRAMS:
WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON VISUALLY IMPAIRED VIEWERS?
Emilie Schmeidler
American Foundation for the Blind
Abstract:
Science programs on television (TV) present much of their information only visually. For people who are visually impaired this reliance on visual cues limits
access to the learning and enjoyment such programs offer. Audio description (sometimes called "video description") inserts descriptions of a TV program's
key visual elements into natural pauses in the program. It is intended to provide visually impaired people with more access to the programs' content and
to make viewing more satisfying. Including description promotes two social policy objectives:
(2) advancing scientific literacy.
TEACHING LAB COURSES TO STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Sheryl Burgstahler, Ph.D.
University of Washington
Abstract: As scientific fields make increasing use of technology, new opportunities emerge for people with a variety of abilities. When students with disabilities and science teachers form learning partnerships, the possibilities for academic and career success multiply. Some students with disabilities have conditions that are invisible; some are visible. Their challenges include gaining knowledge and demonstrating knowledge. In most cases, it takes just a little creativity, patience, and common sense to make it possible for everyone to learn and contribute. The DO-IT project at the University of Washington. DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking and Technology) makes extensive use of computers, adaptive technology and the Internet to increase the successful participation of people with disabilities in academic programs and careers in science, engineering, and mathematics.
TECHNOLOGY AND HANDS-ON STRATEGIES FOR TEACHING SCIENCE
AND MATHEMATICS TO THE SPECIAL EDUCATION POPULATION
Howard Kimmel
CENTER FOR PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Fadi P. Deek
Director of Undergraduate Programs
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Laura Frazer
CENTER FOR PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Abstract: There is a critical need to restructure the methodology of teaching mathematics and science. The traditional way of teaching is through reading from the textbook and doing problems through rote memory of formula and facts. Hands-on experiences, when used, are only to verify "the facts" stated in the textbook. The situation is exacerbated for special education children. A shift to more dynamic and hands-on methods is required. An active, multi-sensory approach to science and mathematics can be effective for children with disabilities, as it is with any other child. The teacher who relies on reading and writing as the sole means of instruction presents all of his or her students with a disadvantage. Children with disabilities may need to carry out their explorations differently.
ACCESSIBLE INTERNET BASED MATHEMATICS AND
AERONAUTICS MATERIALS FOR 4TH-7TH GRADE CHILDREN WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
Lewis E. Kraus
InfoUse
Abstract: InfoUse is running a three year project entitled "An Internet-Based Curriculum on Math and Aeronautics for 4th -7th Grade Children with Physical Disabilities" with funding through a cooperative agreement with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). NASA's award, which is administered through the High Performance Computing and Communications (HPCC) Office as part of NASA's Information Infrastructure Technology and Applications (IITA) program and NASA-Ames Research Facility at Moffett Field, was given as one of eight such awards for developing new ways of teaching science, mathematics, engineering, and aeronautics through developing new Internet-based information technologies.
TEACHING SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS TO DEAF STUDENTS:
THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY, IN INSTRUCTION AND TEACHER PREPARATION
Harry G. Lang
Rochester Institute of Technology
Abstract: It comes as no surprise that when deaf adolescents are asked to rate characteristics of effective teachers, they place a high importance on the visual representation of course content during lectures. Mediated instruction has been advocated by effective teachers ever since the earliest forms of transparency and slide projections, and motion picture films, have been introduced. As new forms of technology enhanced the general living conditions of deaf people as well, educators have applied them to the classroom.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY AND LEARNING DISABILITIES
Carolyn Gardner
Linn-Benton Community College
Abstract: Schools in the United States, both K-12 and postsecondary institutions, are struggling to meet the needs of the increasing numbers of students with learning disabilities. The 1989 figures from the U.S. Department of Education indicate that almost 2 million K-12 school children or 50% of the children receiving special education services are identified as having learning disabilities. (11th Report to Congress, 1989) These increased numbers of students with disabilities are now also impacting postsecondary educational institutions. Reforms in science and mathematics education have led to the development of national curriculum and assessment standards. The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) have mandated academic access in all areas of education for students with learning disabilities.
This issue is a special issue devoted to access to science, math, engineering and technology for people with disabilities.
TEACHING SCIENCE TO THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED:
PURDUE UNIVERSITY'S VISIONS LAB
David Schleppenbach
Director, VISIONS LAB
Purdue University
Abstract: The areas of science and mathematics have traditionally been inaccessible to students with visual impairments. Complex and high-tech fields such as Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Biology, and Mathematics are rife with visually-presented concepts and information. Historically, this complex visual information has not been made available for widespread use in a format easily accessible to blind and visually impaired students. This lack of information, in turn, leads to decreased interest in scientific fields by the blind, and thus few visually impaired scientists exist to provide standards for imparting scientific knowledge to the blind and to serve as mentors and role models for those visually impaired students who wish to pursue careers in the sciences.
TACTILE GRAPHICS:
AN OVERVIEW AND RESOURCE GUIDE
John A. Gardner
Science Access Project
Department of Physics
Oregon State University
Abstract: This article is intended primarily for parents, teachers, and friends of blind people. It introduces the reader to some of the possibilities and to some limitations of using tactile graphics for conveying information to blind people. A number of methods for producing tactile graphics are described. A resource list of useful tools, supplies, and technological methods and devices, and the names and addresses of firms and organizations selling these products is included. A major focus of this article is tactile graphics in science, engineering, and math.
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION AND THE DEAF STUDENT:
OBSERVATIONS OF SERIOUS NUANCES OF COMMUNICATION
Curtis Robbins, Ph.D.
Abstract:
ONLINE INFORMATION AND NETWORKING NEWS
Steve Noble, Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic