Speech in a Virtual World
From: Speech Technology - July/August 2009 - page 42
By: Robin Springer

Disabled users gain control of the in-world life. 

Virtual worlds like Second Life and Who.com offer real-life health benefits
for people who use them. Research has shown that participating in virtual
worlds improves spatial awareness, hand/eye coordination, and fine motor
skills. People with autism spectrum disorders can learn social skills in a
safe environment. And using virtual worlds can improve cognitive function and
concentration in those with traumatic brain injury. 

Read the entire article at:
http://www.speechtechmag.com/Articles/Column/Voice-Value/Speech-in-a-Virtual-World-55189.aspx

Links:
Virtual Ability
http://virtualability.org/default.aspx
http://wiki.secondlife.com/wiki/Virtual_Ability

Second Life Frees Disabled from Restrictions of Everyday Life
http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2008-09/2008-09-17-voa24.cfm?CFID=262597485&CFTOKEN=44236340&jsessionid=66307b9f7245a42666e82c5d2c7e1319204c