Increasingly, software is being developed for special education administrative purposes, including Individualized Education Program development and documentation, database management for reporting and monitoring instructional programs for federal accountability, statistical analysis for program monitoring, and creative uses. The widespread use of…

The author cites the arrival of the information age and considers its implications for special education. He suggests that special educators must build their information management skills. Four specific applications of microcomputers in special education are addressed: tool applications (in which students use microcomputer technology as personal…

The directory lists and describes commercially produced software/courseware useful for special education. Companies are listed in alphabetical order and each entry includes basic directory information (company name, address, telephone number, and contact person); company information (type, hardware, level, handicapping condition for which the…

The article details major steps in establishing a computerized management information system in a special education organization to carry out such functions as student record monitoring and fiscal control. Steps include (1) the study phase, (2) the gross design phase, (3) the detailed design phase, and (4) the implementation phase.(Author/DB)

The information is offered to acquaint teachers with the scope and nature of microcomputer applications in special education. A brief history of computers traces the changes in the past 40 years. Information on basic computer operations covers such aspects as data storage, the nature of application programs, disk drives, and floppy disks.…

The introduction to the special section on microcomputers in special education reviews the trend toward increasing computer use, raises such issues as the need for special educators to provide leadership in the use of computers for individualized instruction, and summarizes remaining articles in the section. (DB)

Describes the dramatic growth in the use of microprocessor-based systems and the effects of this new technology, including microcomputers, telecommunications systems, and communications aids, on special education. Factors contributing to widespread use include requirements for individualized educational programs, increased support for special…

This paper discusses the philosophy followed in Palm Beach County to adapt computer literacy curriculum, hardware, and software to meet the needs of all children. The Department of Exceptional Student Education and the Department of Instructional Computing Services cooperated in planning strategies and coordinating efforts to implement equal…

One of four reports designed to assess the current state of new technologies, the document reviews the status of microcomputers in regular and special education now and for the next five years. Briefly discussed are components, software, and prices of microcomputers. Next addressed are general educational usage for instructional and administrative…

Today's educational software has transcended original drill and practice functions to provide enjoyable learning experiences through simulation, tutorial, and special education programs that develop reasoning and problem-solving skills. Teacher and administrator effectiveness can be enhanced by lesson design, scheduling, attendance, grade…

Intended to help special education administrators, the guide presents information on resources for microcomputer application in program management. The first section offers basic information on such topics as online databases, software, database management systems, and word processing programs. Section 2 provides information on computer…

The report documents activities and findings of the Preschool Evaluation Project which is developing a model for evaluating program provision to handicapped preschoolers and creating a longitudinal data base to track the short- and long-term progress of preschool children receiving special services in Montgomery County, Maryland. During the first…

Knowledge-based expert computer systems are addressing issues relevant to all special educators, but are particularly relevant in rural settings where human experts are less available because of distance and cost. An expert system is an application of artificial intelligence (AI) that typically engages the user in a dialogue resembling the…

Microcomputer applications for four areas of special education are discussed: (1) information management and decision making for administrators; (2) characteristics of quality second generation computer assisted instructional programs for teachers; (3) communications and early prostheses advances for educators of the severely and multiply…

Rural-based special educators are examining the use of microcomputer technology to provide service to special education students. Recent literature is replete with examples of situations where microcomputer telecommunications have altered the isolation of special need populations in areas of communication, computer access, environmental control,…