The use of microcomputer technology with persons unable to speak: An overview

摘要

During the past 15 years technology has provided alternative forms of communication for persons with such severe communication disorders that they are unable to use natural speech to meet their daily communication needs. Standard and dedicated computer hardware and software form the primary technical base upon which augmentative and alternative communication systems are developed for non-speaking individuals. The capability of computer technology to allow alternative access to the keyboard, message storage and retrieval, and speech synthesis or printed output provides the flexibility to configure communication systems to meet the needs of a variety of disabled individuals.