One of four reports designed to assess the current state of new technologies, the document reviews the current status of technologically oriented communication aids for the handicapped. Explained are such technological aspects as the characteristics of electronically based devices which permit special students to have access to technological applications in education. Emphasized is reluctance of private firms to develop aids due to the "thin" market, and noted are roles of individuals and organization in developing aids with federal funds. Described to aid communication of four exceptionalities are the following devices (examples are in parentheses): (1) partially sighted (high powered lenses, television cameras and systems), (2) blind (readers, recording, Braille system), (3) hearing impaired (speech interpretation, voice recognition components), and (4) nonvocal physically handicapped (special menus on the computer display, voice recognition/microcomputer systems). Six organizations which make communication devices are listed. Among factors described as affecting use of communication aids are need for information about availability, need for staff training in local schools, and imaginative funding. The summary both synthesizes information presented and makes such forecasts as that there will be a wider range of communication aids available in the next five years. (MC)