The article explores the applicability of video arcade game formats to educational microcomputer software for exceptional children. Guidelines for educational curriculum based on arcade game formats are proposed and the term "Arc-Ed Curriculum" is offered to describe such software. (Author)

Task analysis can be applied to the design of computer assisted instruction programs for handicapped students through determining the task specification, identifying decisions and steps, classifying the task according to learning skill, identifying the enabling objectives, identifying entry behaviors, and evaluating achievement of the objectives.…

Use of the LOGO System, a computer based learning environment, allows for individualized instruction of many types of handicapped students and emphasizes process over product in the solving of problems. (CL)

Guidelines are offered to help special education teachers select appropriate software and integrate computer-assisted instruction (CAI) into existing curricula. (JW)

The article discusses the flexibility of microcomputers in special education and presents answers to questions asked by parents and teachers on such aspects as needed training, quality of educational software, and guidelines for purchasing. A list of 25 sources of instructional courseware is included. (CL)

Intended to help special educators select software appropriate for their classroom use, the directory contains evalutions of about 300 instructional software packages. An index lists titles by computer type and the following subject areas: computer literacy, critical thinking, grammar, life skills, literature, math computation, math problem…

Microcomputer modules were developed to help Pennsylvania State University students and inservice teachers develop 10 generic competencies regarding working with handicapped students in the least restrictive environment. Competencies touch on understanding the legal bases for education in the least restrictive environment, making use of…

Computer simulations have four general educational uses in remedial and special education: learning about systems analysis, understanding a real-world system, applying functional skills in realistic settings, and exploring fantasy worlds through adventure games. Potential uses include computer assisted video instruction to teach functional and…

Microcomputers can contribute to a handicapped child's communication, control of the environment, education, and recreation. Descriptions are given of projects to adapt the technology to serve students with difficulties in hearing, speech and language, learning and cognitive skills, and movement and neurological development. (CL)

The paper examines the way preschool children with handicaps interact with and make their response to computer programs, suggesting that the most important factor ensuring successful computer use is finding the most appropriate method of computer access. Difficulties with software programs are noted, including problems with scanning. It is…

The use of computers in teaching basic skills to special education students is examined. Six instructional techniques useful in teaching basic skills are outlined: information delivery, demonstration, drill and practice, problem solving, tutorial, and instructional games. A summary lists the contributions of technologies to effective learning,…

The Basic Skills Keyboards is a software program that features a variety of game files presented in ways tied to the cognitive deficits associated with autism. The program is based on the hypothesis that such students have problems with cause-effect, means-end, and personal agency, and would develop a working knowledge of these relationships via…

A behavior management simulation training system for special education teachers was carried out through microcomputers. Four software facets focused on the behavior game, feedback, computer assisted instruction, and computer guided implementation. (CL)

The result of a continuing study of software related to children with special needs, this guide is intended to assist in the selection of software appropriate for children with mental, physical, behavioral, sensory, and learning impairments. Suggestions for gifted children are also included. The guide is updated yearly and includes more than 190…

Thirty-four papers from a 1983 conference on the use of microcomputers in special education focus on specific applications of the new technology. An overview section, section 1, includes papers on computer literacy and daily living skills, considerations for marketing software, and the role of special educators in the information age. Section 2…