LLRC CONFERENCE REPORT Reviewed by Donna Heiner, Ed.S. RESNA '95 RECREAbility Vancouver, British Columbia Canada June 9-14, 1995 RESNA '95 The venue for RESNA '95 suited the theme well. As participants from more than 20 countries gathered for the Opening Ceremony of RESNA '95, Alaska-bound cruise ships hooted a final "All ashore." We, too, were leaving on a voyage, but not one of ice blue glaciers, abundant wildlife and spectacular vistas. We were to marvel at devices which talked for those who cannot, learn of research in which brain waves controlled computers, and view sailboats designed for individuals with physical disabilities. Conference features included: - An Instructional Program of full-day and half-day Preconference Courses, Morning Seminars and Manufacturer Workshops - Platform Sessions which provided an overview of research and service delivery activities - Interactive Sessions, visual displays coupled with an opportunity to interact with project developers - Computer Demonstrations in a computer lab - A Research Symposium on cutting-edge topics - Special Sessions for in-depth looks at the utilization of technology resources and services - An Exhibit Hall with over 100 exhibitors - Manufacturer Workshops for instruction on specific items - A Video Theater, a forum for screening audiovisual materials The conference officially began with an evening Opening Ceremony which followed two intensive days of pre-conference Instructional Courses and Manufacturer Workshops. After a greeting from Mary Binion, Chair, Meetings Committee, the Hon. Joan Smallwood, Minister of Housing, Recreation and Consumer Services welcomed us to British Columbia. She described her Government's support of inclusive communities and informed us that 5% of the housing in British Columbia is now accessible. After learning 44% of people with disabilities carry out recreational activities at home, her Ministry produced "More than an Open Door," a guide to recreation in British Columbia. Dr. Bruce Halliday, Chair of the Canadian International Network on Disability, spoke of Canada's role in providing access, and stated that "disability is an issue which affects every member of the community." Clifford Brubaker, President of RESNA, welcomed delegates on behalf of the organization and introduced David Cooper and Phil Mundy, Conference Co-Chairs, who introduced the conference theme - RECREAbility. To the delight of the audience, they divested themselves of ties, shirts, suits, and footwear. Clad in sports sandals, straw hats, RESNA T-shirts, and gaudy bathing trunks, they plunked themselves down in beach chairs to watch an action-filled video chronicling the awesome adventures of Otto Bock sports wheelchairs users. Rick Hansen, Man in Motion, presented the Keynote Address. Now Director of the Lifeskills Motivation Center at the University of British Columbia. Rick achieved international attention in 1985 with his attempt to wheel around the world to raise money to support spinal cord research. In two years and two months, he wheeled 40,000 kilometers, visited 34 countries, and raised $23 million for a Legacy Trust fund. A recipient of many awards, Rick has created an awareness of the possibilities inherent in all people. Through video and personal recollections, Rick described his "Man in Motion" tour and the final challenges for man and wheelchair of wheeling across Canada in mid-winter. Informing us that our field of endeavor has changed his life, he spoke on the topic "Living with, Managing, and Initiating Change." The following evening, preceding the Official Opening of Exhibits, Sam Sullivan, Executive Director of Tetra Development Society and this year's Everest & Jennings Distinguished Lecturer, spoke on "Two Quadriplegics Dancing." Injured in a skiing accident in 1979, Sam has worked to promote the needs of individuals with disabilities, especially in the area of recreation and leisure activities. Sam is a Founding Member of the Disabled Sailing Association, whose volunteer engineers design custom devices which allow even those with severe disabilities to sail independently, and of the BC Mobility Society, an organization which re-engineers vehicles for use on wilderness trails. According to Sam, "sailing ...is one of the few sports where people with disabilities can compete with people without disabilities on an even level." A musician before his injury, Sam also is involved with the Vancouver Adaptive Music Society and the group "Spinal Cord." CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Attending a RESNA conference involves agonizing choices. This year's program included a Personal Planner, which didn't make the choices any easier, but at least helped conference goers to remember which choices they had made. Take one day, Monday, as an example. Before 10:00 am, attendees either went to Morning Seminars, worked out in the Recreation Center, or slept. At 10:00, the choices were as follows: Computer Tech Lab, 2 Platform Sessions, 4 Special Sessions and the exhibits. The sessions ended at 11:45; Professional Speciality Groups met from 12:00-1:00. At 1:15, product demonstrations were given in the Exhibit Hall and Computer Tech Lab, there were 4 Platform Sessions, the Whitaker Student Scientific Paper Competition, 4 Interactive Sessions, 3 Special Sessions, and a series of practical and clinical Roundtable Discussions. At 3:45, a second series of 4 Platform Sessions, 2 Interactive Sessions, Computer Demonstrations, and 4 Special Sessions began. Between 5:15 and 6:00, attendees had a chance to rest, then head for the Fourth Night Fest in the Exhibit Hall, followed by the traditional Dance Nite from 9:00-1:00. Careful planning was necessary to attend sessions in order of priority ("But I'm interested in Special Education and AAC!") and to take care of necessities, such as eating lunch. Each RESNA Conference has special qualities which separate it from those of years past. Attendees at RESNA '95 will reminisce about the excitement generated by the new research symposium and the abundance of ideas for adapted recreational opportunities. Part of RESNA's commitment to advancing the field of assistive technology through ongoing research, the first of an annual series of symposia began this year. The 1995 Research Symposium explored recent accomplishments and current state of the art in the development of a direct brain interface to control assistive technologies. During the symposium, key North American researchers met to exchange information. Two methods for reading brain generated signals, systems based on surface and intracortical recordings, were covered. In the future, these methods of interpreting electrical brain activity could result in the development of a control mechanism for a communication device, computer, or neuromuscular stimulation system. The combination of venue and theme gave participants the opportunity to experience recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities in British Columbia. Opportunities for learning about recreation and leisure for individuals with disabilities were abundant, beginning with group workout sessions early in the morning! The middle of the exhibit floor featured assistive technology for recreation, including adapted sailboats, skis, and even sea kayaks. With chapters in three locations, the Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia (604/222-3003) promotes rehabilitation through recreational and competitive sailing. The DSA BC began in 1989 when British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher donated a boat to Rick Hansen in honor of his world tour. Three years later, Rick presented the boat to Sam Sullivan, who founded the Association. The Sunbird, a stable boat, has controls which are easily operated from a seated position. Another boat, the Royal Spirit, is operated by sip and puff controls. Sailors may use a hoist to enter the boats safely; specially designed suits keep sailors dry. The latest version of a boat designed for individuals with high-level quadriplegia graced the middle of the exhibit hall. Two other boats, moored outside the convention center, were used to provide free sails for the adventurous. Encouraging musical opportunities for people with disabilities, VAMS, the Vancouver Adapted Music Society (604/688-6464) was co-founded by two musicians who experienced spinal cord injuries. VAMS supports Spinal Cord, an integrated band which plays public benefit concerts, and maintains a recreational and a professional music studio. Other services include a roster of musicians with disabilities and an equipment loan program. VAMS has been involved in the creation of development of several assistive devices, such as a drum stick splint for a drummer without finger function, a computer program which reprograms notes so that someone with no finger movement can create on a keyboard, and a mouth operated computer sequencer. A Canadian charity, the Ability Art Centre Society (614/985-2849) works toward the professional integration of artistic people with disabilities. A specialized curriculum for applied art skill training will be combined with instruction in business and marketing. Curricular areas include painting and drawing, goldsmithing and silversmithing, and wood carving. Computer Demonstrations A recent addition to RESNA Conferences, computer demonstrations allow developers of new clinical and research tools to demonstrate and describe their work in a small group setting. In their presentation, "Multimedia for Assistive Technology Training and Recruitment: Two CD-ROM Training Programs," Jo and Bernard Fleming illustrated the utilization of CD-ROM technology in professional development. The G.A.T.E. (Guide to Assistive Technology Experiences) introduces professionals and prospective professionals to assistive technology users of all ages, roles of members of the AT team, and resources for additional information. In "Forrest - Centerstage," we meet Forrest, a child who uses assistive technology, through an interactive storybook which encourages others to explore the devices Forrest uses during his day. A second computer demonstration, "The Development of an Abbreviation System," featured Geri Esten, a woman with multiple sclerosis. To speed her written communication, she developed a mnemonic abbreviation system which incorporates thousands of abbreviations organized by logical categories. Geri accesses her computer through dual switch Morse Code and expressed the hope that her approach will help others become more productive. CONFERENCE QUOTES "I believe that one day a wheelchair will be something you see in a museum." -Rick Hanson, Man in Motion "The future is what we are creating, not where we are going." -Mary Binion, Chair, Meetings Committee "When you're going to the door of the government, it's always better to be opening it from the inside." -Sam Sullivan, E & J Distinguished Lecturer "Independence does not mean being by yourself. Rather it means being in charge of yourself and taking responsibility for your life." -Free to Be, brochure "If people can accept me as normal, anyone can get away with it." -Ed Roberts, as quoted by a speaker "Access to Technology - Anyone, Anywhere" -RESNA Vision Statement "Don't ever let anyone tell you what your human capacity is." -Rick Hanson, Man in Motion "Well, I guess I'll look for a food icon and see what's under it." -unknown attendee "At Tetra, we don't make it easy, we just make it possible." -Tetra Society Brochure RECREATION At a RESNA conference, attendees expect to see the latest in assistive devices. This year's RESNA theme of recreation added an extra dimension. Hiking appeals to individuals of all ages. For those of us whose hiking boots or wheels have special requirements, Beneficial Designs' (408/429-8447) Computerized Mapping of Outdoor Trails for Accessibility Project allows hikers to evaluate trails based on factors such as width, grade, and obstacles. Individuals who are unable to hike on foot still have access to wilderness trails with Freedom from Tibbys Ltd. (604/748-2264). This lightweight, rugged outdoor electric wheelchair will soon be available in the US. Battery powered and equipped with headlights and taillights, Freedom handles gravel, sand, snow, and ice. Get tickets to the world's second largest sporting event! The 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games, held for the first time in the United States, will occur August 16-25 in Atlanta, Georgia. Included in the celebration will be the Third Paralympic Congress, a world congress on disability. Contact the Atlanta Paralympic Organizing Committee at 404/588-1996. AAC Designed with love, the Holly.Com from Communication Devices, Inc. 800/604-6559) features a built-in 3.5" disk drive for unlimited digitized speech file storage and recall. Configurable in eight or thirty-two key overlays, Holly.Com's large keys provide tactile key feedback. The adjustable keyboard tilts up for easy access; under the keyboard is built-in storage for additional overlays and disks. Powered by six "D" cells or an AC adapter, Holly.Com measures a compact 14" x 9.5" x 3.75." From Aurora Systems, Inc. (800/361-8255), Aurora for Windows combines voice output and word prediction for more efficient written input and spoken communication. Aurora supports a number of speech synthesizers, including the SoundBlaster AWE32 DecTalk. Words+ (800/869-8521) announces several new products. Housing a speech synthesizer, Words+ SoftKey, and optional touch panel and digitized sound electronics, the Mini-CommPac mounts under a Gateway(TM) 486 subnotebook computer. An eight message, hand-held AAC device, the Mini-MessageMate includes external switch jacks for alternate access. Pegasus, a dedicated communication device, takes advantage of state-of-the-art computer capability. A 486 computer with built-in touch window, DECtalk, CD ROM, and a dynamic 256-color LCD display, Pegasus can be purchased with Talking Screen for Windows or E Z Keys for Windows. The latest version of GUS! Multimedia Speech System for Windows (604/279-0110) includes the following new features: unlimited layers, phone dialer, 2-72 buttons/page, 1 and 2 switch scanning, environmental control, male or female voices, Gus! Mouse/Switch, and digitized and/or synthetic speech. With the Gus! System, purchasers receive additional programs such as the Gus! Talking Keyboard for Windows and Gus! Abbreviations for Windows, as well as a ProVoice Speech synthesizer. The 7th Biennial Conference of the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, "Communication...Naturally," is planned for August 7-10, 1996, in Vancouver, Canada. To receive conference information, contact Venue West Conference Services Ltd. (604/681-5226). ADAPTED INPUT AND OUTPUT: HARDWARE Peter Graystone of EKEG Electronics Co. (604/857-0828) has developed a series of mini-keyboards which connect to the computer through the keyboard socket, and require no additional software to operate. Available for Macintosh, IBM-PC and AT compatibles, the EKEG Mini-Keyboards offer a choice of three different square key sizes. The Simplicity(TM) series from Quartet (508/692-9313) provides environmental control. The Executive is a complete voice operated ECU and an integrated computer management system. The Four in One is a voice and switch operated ECU with voice output. A special computer interface allows full control of IBM PC-compatibles. For wheelchairs users with good control over their wheelchair joystick, Power Mouse from the Hugh MacMillan Rehabilitation Centre (416/425-6220) converts analog joystick signals to standard serial mouse input. For PC-compatible and Macintosh computers, Power Mouse runs any software which is mouse controlled. A true 32 bit Windows application for individuals with visual impairments, Protalk32 transforms the visual display of the computer into a verbal readout or tactile presentation. Biolink Computer Research and Development in B.C. (604/984-4099) also offers a version for Windows NT. Jouse(TM), a mouth-operated mouse from Neil Squire Foundation (604/473-9363), is a self-centering joystick providing full access to any IBM PC-compatible running DOS or Windows(TM). Equal Access Computer Technology (508/263-6437) has developed zero-force switches which can be mounted directly on splints. This innovation allows individuals with finger control to access PC-compatibles with even slight motions. The Responsive Development Team at Bloorview Childrens Hospital in Ontario designs new technology for people with disabilities (416/494-222). Mini Morse, a hardware emulator for Morse Code access to PC-compatible and Macintosh computers, speeds keyboard entry for individuals who can control one, two or three, switches. The Battery Adapter allows individuals with powered wheelchairs to use the wheelchair batteries to power notebook computers or augmentative/alternative communication devices. For individuals who need to independently choose when to control assistive devices from a powered wheelchair, the Wireless Switch Link eliminates the need for wires connecting switches and devices. The newest member of the AbleNet (800/322-0956) family of switches comes with three bases which can be interchanged for flexible mounting. With switches available in seven color choices, bases include a flange base, flush base, and strap-adaptable base. The Morse Code DARCI CARD from WesTest Engineering Corporation (801/298-7100) converts Morse Code input into mouse and keyboard data. The first in a series of Darci PCMCIA cards, it accepts input from a joystick, mouse, trackball or switches. ADAPTED OUTPUT AND INPUT: SOFTWARE Access Pack for Windows 3.x, developed by Trace R & D Center, does for Windows what Access DOS did for DOS -- it provides access solutions for individuals with physical disabilities. With Access Pack, users can perform activities such as controlling the repeat feature of the keyboard, use the numeric keypad instead of the mouse, and even operate the computer from an AAC device connected to the computer's serial port. Access Pack for Windows can be downloaded from computer bulletin boards or ordered from MicroSoft (206/637-7098). Access Pack is distributed with no charge. ZoomText Version 5 for Windows and DOS magnifies from 2x to 16x in full or partial screen zoom windows. ZoomText even supports CD-ROM software and support for high resolution color. Ai Squared (802/362-3612) offers a free demo disk. RESOURCES The Paralyzed Veterans of America's Spinal Cord Injury and Training Foundation (800/424-8200 ext. 657) develops free or low cost booklets and distributes a list of available educational materials for children and adults. One source, the National Database of Educational Resources on Spinal cord Injury (713/797-5945), provides a free listing of information resources on specific topics related to spinal cord injury. Are you a "Techno-Ranger," a teacher or parent who uses computers or communication systems to meet the needs of children with disabilities? Each 24-page issue of CTExpress, a new print and disk publication, contains articles, ideas, software templates for Macintosh computers, and networking. For a free preview issue, contact the Center for Technology in Education (410/254-8466) Info-Curbcuts, begun by Trace Research and Development Center, brings together in a collaborate effort individuals interested in developing accessible interface strategies and design guidelines for future information systems. For a listing of publications, send an e-mail request to listproc@trace.wisc.edu. The AgrAbility Project promotes success in agriculture for people with disabilities and their families. For additional information, contact the AgriAbility Project, National Easter Seal Society, at 202/347-3066. Obtain free subscriptions for your clients or students of Mainstream, the magazine of the able-disabled. Call 619/234-3138 for an order form. The Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Wheelchair Technology at the University of Pittsburgh (412/826-3138) has published four technical reports dealing with mobility, seating and transportation safety. Technology and Disability communicates knowledge about a range of assistive technology devices and services. For a sample copy, contact Elsevier Science, Inc. (212/633-3750). A newsletter by people with disabilities for people with disabilities, their families, and their friends, 1 Step Ahead covers everything from technology to politics in a timely, concise format. For a free issue and subscription, call EKA Publications (800/386-5367). CO-NET 8, an electronic library on disability contains information on assistive products, disability services, legal rights, and funding. Available as a CD-ROM or floppy disk format, CO-NET is distributed by Trace Research and Development Center (608/263-2309). Are you on the Web? Assistive Technology On-Line, a new world wide web service on assistive technology provides information to consumers, family members, and professionals and also links to other sources on the Internet. To browse, open the location: http://www.asel.udel.edu/at-online/. From the Center for Rehabilitation Technology (800/726-9119) in Atlanta, Georgia, NEWS UPDATE carries informational articles on adaptations for daily living. Addressing the quality of life, the Tetra Society of North America's technical assistance program matches volunteer professionals with people with disabilities. Through its 470 volunteers throughout Canada and the US, Tetra (604/688-6464) completed over 1200 projects during 1994-1995. These projects include an adapted snowmobile seat, an adjustable classroom chair, a stroller for twins with cerebral palsy, a Plexiglas bed gate, and a remote control for kayakers. SOFT TECHNOLOGY FOR INDEPENDENCE Assistive technology comes in many flavors; it doesn't always have to be high tech. It just has to do the job. The series of wheeled walkers from Walker Works (800/667-4111) offers a choice of three kinds of brakes to accommodate individuals with varying degrees of hand function. The lightweight walkers fold for transport; accessories (standard on certain models) include a vinyl seat, plastic tray, and removable wire basket with carrying handle. A system of touch sensitive standardized colors, Tactile Color (604/598-3942) has applications for location maps, as an art medium, and in the creation of books for children with visual impairment. The product range of 12 colors is available in several formats. The Easy Reach Light Switch Aid, developed by Light Vision Safety Products (604/479-8799), enables persons in wheelchairs or with limited mobility to reach standard light switches. A hands free speaker phone, the Tykriphone from Tykris, Inc. 416/609-2540 features access from any single switch or infrared transmitters, 3/4" screen characters, adjustable volume controls, and programmability. WHAT'S RESNA? A May 1995 article in Rehab & Community Care Management provided the following background information on the organization: RESNA - the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America - is an interdisciplinary association of professionals and consumers who are dedicated to the advancement of rehabilitation and assistive technology. RESNA encourages and promotes the exchange of ideas and information and provides a forum for the sharing of insights, direction and knowledge. RESNA is dedicated to charting the best possible future of rehabilitation and assistive technologies for the benefit of everyone. Members of RESNA benefit from the national and regional RESNA conferences, informative services, and the opportunity to network and benefit from the experiences of a diverse group of peers involved in the field of assistive technology. To receive membership information, contact the RESNA national office at 703/524-6686. RESNA '96 Plan now to attend RESNA '96 "Pioneering the 21st Century" in Salt Lake City, Utah, June 7-12, 1996. For information and to receive a preliminary program, contact RESNA, Suite 1540, 1700 North Moore St., Arlington, VA 22209-1903. Prepared by: Donna Heiner, Ed.S. Living and Learning Resource Centre 600 West Maple Lansing, MI 48906 8/18/95 Author's Note: This report reflects only a sampling of the rich offerings available to attendees at an annual RESNA conference. Inclusion or exclusion of any individual, company, or product is based solely on one attendee's personal experience. This document is available in alternate formats. Contact the Living and Learning Resource Centre, 600 W. Maple, Lansing, MI 48906. This document was produced through an IDEA State Initiated Grant for the Living and Learning Resource Centre awarded to the Physically Impaired Association of Michigan by the State Board of Education. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Board of Education or the U.S. Department of Education, and no endorsement is inferred. This document is in the public domain and may be copied for further distribution when proper credit is given. For further information or inquiries about this project contact Lucian Parshall, Office of Special Education, P.O. Box 30008, Lansing, MI 48909.