Designing human-computer interfaces for quadriplegic people

ABSTRACT

Computer and system manufacturers often say that designing applications for users with disabilities is not cost-effective. Most computer systems are designed for users who are not disabled; therefore, systems that address disabled users need special interfaces in order to be accessible. In this paper we present a method for developing human-computer interfaces for quadriplegic people in modern programming environments, provided that they can perform single-switch signals. Using a scanning technique, "single-switch" users can sequentially highlight items that are laid out spatially on screen and then select an item by activating a switch when the target item is highlighted.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY
      K.4.2 Social Issues

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)