Market factors surrounding computer software in special education are examined, including proliferation of computers in schools, widespread marketing and distribution patterns for software, consumer demands for software, quality, timelessness, emphasis on basic skills, and an understanding of future capabilities. (CL)

The authors suggest the need for preservice teacher education to incorporate microcomputer technology in learning of basic instructional skills. Computer literacy should be approached in terms of classroom applications. Using the microcomputer provides immediate feedback on performance and the opportunity to vary responses and reflect on possible…

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.…

The author reviews the history of the microcomputer and addresses its application needs in special education. Among needs cited are the ability to store and retrieve curriculum resource information and to develop diagnostic testing and automated test construction reporting devices. He also sees the need for software that is neither threatening nor…

The authors view microcomputers as an important but as yet limited instructional technology. Guidelines are offered for deciding when and how computer assisted instruction should be used, emphasizing the teacher's role as decision maker and instructional manager. (Author/CL)

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)

Special education implications of design issues in computer-assisted and computer-managed instruction are discussed. Reference is made to algorithmic and heuristic procedures, individual rate of learning, feedback, and instructional task hierarchies. (Author/CL)

Seven factors concerning the marketability of special education computer software are reviewed: proliferation of computers in the schools, distribution patterns, consumer demand, quality of the product, the ability to use the material over time without revision, focus on basic skill development, and the effects of future trends. (CL)

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 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…

The article examines the history of computer assisted instruction (CAI), compares the beginnings of television with the beginnings of microcomputers, and examines the components of CAI (drill and practice, tutoring, instructional games, simulation, problem solving, demonstration, and mini-programs). Issues such as compatability and effects on…

It is necessary for those who are developing and/or evaluating software for purchase to carefully consider its educational compatibility, instructional design adequacy, and technical adequacy. Specific factors are examined as they relate to the development and/or evaluation of educational microcomputer software for handicapped learners. (Author)

The article extends previous microcomputer software evaluation forms by providing an evaluation instrument based on research-based instructional techniques, providing a step-by-step approach for evaluating software, and adding a student evaluation component to the overall review. (Author/CL)

Microcomputers can serve a variety of functions in the special education classroom, including drill and practice, tutoring, music composition and theory, communication aids, and data management. Special educators must make informed choices in selecting, adapting, or writing their own software (lists of authoring tools and software resources are…

The use of microcomputers with handicapped children is examined in terms of special equipment (largely on particular physical handicaps); general equipment that can be modified for particular handicaps but which builds on standard hardware; and software intended for children with physical, emotional, or cognitive handicaps. (CL)