Use of microswitches and speech output systems with people with severe/profound intellectual or multiple disabilities: a literature review

Abstract

Microswitches and speech output systems are two forms of technology which have been used with people with severe/profound intellectual or multiple disabilities to help them reduce their isolation and interact with the surrounding world (i.e., thus obtaining environmental stimulation independently or requesting it efficiently). This paper reviews the studies which used microswitches and speech output systems with the aforementioned people during the 1986-1999 period, and discusses the research findings and the practicality of these two forms of technology. Some relevant issues for future research are also pointed out.