The paper discusses ways in which the Apple II plus and Apple IIe computers can be adapted to become highly effective tools in the education of the physically/multiply handicapped student. The role of word processing programs as communication aids, alternative input and output devices, and innovative software programs is examined. Among the…

A new voice based learning system (VBLS), which allows the handicapped user to interact with a microcomputer by voice commands, is described. Speech or voice recognition is the computerized process of identifying a spoken word or phrase, including those resulting from speech impediments. This new technology is helpful to the severely physically…

Describes the use of computers in special education to provide new learning opportunities and better teaching strategies for handicapped students. Indicates that computers can teach cursive writing, test the effectiveness of a teaching method, and simulate systems such as tune-composing and sentence generating. (DC)

The purpose of the project being reported on here was to develop a "Directory of Microcomputer Software for Special Needs Students." The bulk of this final report consists of a copy of the actual directory. Based on information gathered from commercial software manufacturers and distributors, the directory lists microcomputer software for…

This article shows how even preschool children with significant physical disabilities can use the computer independently to learn social skills if given the correct positioning, appropriate computer peripherals and software, grouping, and instructional strategies. A continuum of computer peripheral adaptation is provided, along with a list of…

The Educational Center for Disabled Students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is designed to improve the academic performance and attitudes toward success of disabled students through computer technology and academic skills training. Adaptive equipment interventions take into account keyboard access and screen and voice output. Non-adaptive…

The book focuses on the use of microcomputer technology in special education. It is intended for users with no programming knowledge. An introductory section provides suggestions for finding software and considers the microcomputer's role in communications and environmental control. The second chapter addresses key elements of microcomputer…

Presented are 10 intervention techniques for making science a hands-on experience for disabled students. Included are field trips, lab buddies, flexible rooms, customized lab equipment, lesson adaptation, precourse interviews, involving the class, computer-assisted learning, social considerations, and the team approach. (KR)

This manual describes how the Kidlink early education program in Topeka, Kansas, evolved from a segregated program serving physically disabled children to an integrated one including day care services. Chapters include "PROJECT KIDLINK: Bringing Together Disabled and Nondisabled Preschoolers" (Julie Keller); "KIDLINK CLASSROOM: An…

Describes possible applications of new technologies to special education. Discusses results of a study designed to explore the use of robotics, artificial intelligence, and computer simulations to aid people with handicapping conditions. Presents several scenarios in which specific technological advances may contribute to special education…

This book presents reports on selected "local action" projects that were developed as part of the Equity in Technology Project, which was inaugurated in 1985 by the Educational Computer Consortium of Ohio (ECCO). The book is organized into three sections, one for each of the populations targeted by the project. An introduction by Alice Fredman…

The third edition of this guide for teaching chemistry at all levels to students with disabilities covers classroom adaptations, testing and evaluation, computers in the classroom and laboratory, laboratory design, and laboratory safety. The needs of the growing population of students with learning disabilities are addressed, along with the needs…

A computer-based system was developed for physically handicapped students using a learning laboratory to develop prerequisite skills for regular vocational or technical courses. Among criteria developed for the system were that it should not require manual dexterity, should use commercially available and reasonably priced hardware and software,…

The first section of this packet consists of worksheets, exercises, software descriptions and "best practices" guidelines for teachers of students with disabilities. The second section reports on findings of a 1989 task force on transition procedures for mainstreaming of the physically impaired, including procedures for referral,…

The 30 conference papers in this collection are presented in 6 categories. Five overviews discuss innovative uses of computers in education (Dorothy K. Deringer); microcomputers in instructional research (Alan M. Lesgold); microcomputers in the schools (Mitchell Batoff, Gary G. Bitter); and the courseware crisis (Barbara R. Sadowski). Research and…