COMPUTERS AND DISABLED
by Nancy Jennings

Reading a periodical, I learned about the beginning of PresbyNet. This was a network that the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) was experimenting with telecommunications for outreach, news media, communication, and resources within the denomination.

I was interested in reaching persons with disabilities, providing help, and resources when possible. A meeting on Disability was established on PresbyNet.

A request came from a clergy in New York regarding a member that was spastic, could not write but able to type. He owned a computer and software, but the word processors had auto-repeat keys, this created repeated letters such as aaaaaaa, etc. because of his slow hand motions. I contacted local computer stores, software manufacturers with no assistance. Online, I noted a member with computing expertise. I sent an urgent note for help.

A response came online that his daughter was a school teacher using word processors. Two days later a public domain word processor from the schools in Canada was sent to this individual making it possible for him to use the computer for communications. Twenty minutes online, eliminated major communications barrier through telecommunications.

Sharing worship experiences, biblestudy, special hardware, special software, self-help groups are just a few of the branches on the disability meeting. This illustrates the opportunities to reach out through this new media.

Another request regarding a person with visual impairment could no longer read or use the computer because of the size of screen print or hard copy. Contact was made with IBM, and information provided on computer programs.

IBM has a research center for Persons with Disabilities. This center is exploring all areas and the development of materials. One of the latest developments is a speech analyzer. This program records the pitch and develops programs to assist the individual in using the computer for speech therapy.

Apple Computing also has a research center, provides training for specialists and is establishing demonstration programs across the U.S.

Computing has provided many new opportunities. Several industries have learned that a person does not have to be behind the desk at specific hours. Many industries including IBM are now engaging in employment and training programs for persons with disabilities. The individual can work at home if needed,
flexible schedules to meet any special needs such as rest, comfort, yet be a productive, self-sufficient and contributing involved with others preventing possible isolation. Telecommunications has eliminated many barriers, with technology
providing adaptability.

Special hardware available to make computing adaptive for/with persons with disabilities. Illustrative examples are braille printers, foot control mouse, adaptive keyboards, special switching devices, speech synthesizers, optical controls, voice
activated control. Some new technology under experimentation is a mechanical hand that provides sign language for teaching and learning.

Special software provides one-finger access, eye controlled input, optical pointer, single key word-processors, braille video presentations, sign language tutorial, enhanced learning, voice input, memory skills, voice recognition, and speech analyzer.

Psychological, employment skills, and evaluation testing programs are already available with adaptability.

A totally blind individual obtained his B.A. in computer programming, with special programs and devices.

Social interaction, reaching others and sharing is a wonderful opportunity through telecommunications. A quadriplegic with use of only one finger and thumb, confined to bed except two hours a day joined the network. He is very grateful as he can now help reach out and help others while in bed using special
adaptability. He says, "For once I can give rather than always receiving". He also is serving on the Advisory Board of PresbyNet with tremendous insight.

Having public and closed meetings provides the opportunity for confidential self-support groups without breaking individual confidence and helping re-establish self-esteem.

In conclusion computing has opened many wonderful opportunities of employment, learning, research, evaluation, independence, and social interaction for persons with disabilities.

--------
author's note: Nancy Jennings is National President - Presbyterians
for Disabilities Concerns, Chair-Presbyter Special Committee on
Handicapped, Chair - NM Conf. of Churches task force on Caring and
Inclusive Congregations.