Computer Toolkits in Special Education

Abstract

Modular software tools and common user‐interfaces have much to offer special education, especially in reducing the problems a child (and sometimes a teacher) has in understanding complex modes. Examples are given of mode‐free toolkits used in the design of a Smart Wheelchair, and in an assessment kit for tailoring communication aids. Toolkit metaphors are outlined. The multiple control and learning tasks for a handicapped user of computers is related to potential toolkit metaphors available to designers. The case is made for common operating systems powerful enough to support those metaphors requiring advanced features like multi‐tasking.