Computers helping people with special needs

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The introduction to the 1st International Conference on Computers for Handicapped Persons (Vienna, 1989) by A. Min Tjoa and Roland Wagner concluded with a mission statement on the future of computer technology for disabled individuals. It highlighted that various themes demonstrated how technology can assist handicapped persons, particularly the blind and visually impaired. Two key directions for future efforts were identified: first, enhancing tools and expanding research and development for all groups of disabled individuals, regardless of their numbers; second, addressing the social implications by increasing social science studies on computer usage among disabled persons. The authors noted a significant lack of data on work tasks for disabled individuals, emphasizing the need for research to evaluate the extent and nature of computer use in their professional lives. They called for answers to numerous questions to advance rehabilitation efforts. Fifteen years later, the 9th International Conference on Computers Helping People with Special Needs (Paris, 2004) provided a more comprehensive understanding of awareness, research, and applications related to the participation of disabled individuals in society.