Morse code for disabled users of computers

[Hans Brakob]

Joel Rubin wrote:

>The Canadian radio program As It Happens (a...@toronto.cbc.ca) had an
>interview today with Deborah King of an organization called "Morse
>2000 Outreach" at the U. of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. She was promoting
>various Morse code computer interfaces for some people who cannot
>handle a full keyboard.
>
>For example, a man who has been in a bad auto accident may be able to
>keep a job which requires some typing into a computer if he can learn
>to send code sufficiently quickly.

Joel,

This program is jointly sponsored by University of Wisconsin, Johns
Hopkins
University, University of Washington, and University of Lund (Sweden).

They will hold a "Morse 2000 World Conference" on October 25-25, 1997, in
Bloomington, Minnesota, with the following goals.

Assistive technology (AT) is a repidly-developing field that is adding
new dimensions to the lives of children and adults with special needs.
As a major component of AT, augmentative and alternative communication
(AAC) systems can allow users with severe communication disorders to
acquire the communicative competence and skills necessary to participate
in educational, social, and vocational activities. Additionally,
assistive technologies enable individuals who have physical or sensory
challenges to move about and control their environment, enhancing their
ability to learn, work and play. Morse code is increasingly providing a
creative, viable means of access to many types of assistive technologies.
Because of the promise of Morse code uses in AT and AAC, this conference
will:

-Review Morse-related research that impacts the lives of individuals with
exceptional needs.

-Examine issues pertinent to industry standardization of Morse-type
characters for computer access.

-Compare and contrast teaching and learning methods of Morse code for use
in rehabilitation applications.

-Investigate how Morse code can be successfully utilized in computer
access applications.

-Compare and contrast a variety of Morse-related assistive technology
systems and access methods for computer access.

-Allow for discussion and networking among AT professionals, users,
families, and Morse code enthusiasts for increased personal and
professional growth.

If you wish more info about this World Conference, or about Morse 2000
Worldwide Outreach, call 715.836.3990.

73, de Hans, K0HB