Article

This article was written to summarize current efforts in the research
community in regards to assisting adults with severe developmental and
intellectual disabilities to access a computer. METHOD: A literature search was
conducted to determine contemporary research that has been conducted to enable
computer use in persons with significant developmental disabilities utilizing
databases such as ERIC or PubMed. RESULTS: Although various assistive technology
devices and interventions have been developed for persons with all types of
disabilities, a lack of research into methods to help persons with severe
developmental disabilities access a computer is evident. This perpetuates the
underutilization of computers in this population such as those attending day
programs or residing in residential facilities. CONCLUSIONS: Persons with
developmental disabilities, particularly adults, are often overlooked and are not
thought to be capable of using a personal computer. Though communities have
endeavored to further enhance participation by persons with disabilities in many
aspects of mainstream society, there is a scarcity of research pertaining to how
adults with intellectual disabilities can access a computer, especially those
with severe impairments. Once formal schooling is over, there appears to be scant
interest in supporting adults using computers.

Langue : ANGLAIS