The authors suggest that students with learning disabilities can profit from instruction via microcomputers. However, adaptation of the keyboard design, promotions of higher interaction levels, and emphasis on an auditory link may be necessary. The PLATO system allows auditory presentation of instructions and feedback and response via a…

The column reviews trends and recent articles on computer assisted instruction (CAI) for students with learning disabilities and for students without handicaps. Topics addressed include CAI for incarcerated students, insurance, guidelines for software, and suggestions for purchasing software. (CL)

Since Learning Assistance Centres are natural places for the use of computers, Learning Assistance Teachers should become familiar with the new developments and possibilities afforded by computer-assisted instruction and should also provide critical evaluations of use in Learning Assistance Centre programs. (Author/CL)

Computers should not supplant other forms of basic instruction for learning disabled students. Overreliance on computers could lead to difficulties for students with poor visual skills and to inadequate practice for students with motor problems. (CL)

Learning disabled students should receive positive beginning experiences with computers. Teachers can modify timing factors, review all programs beforehand to identify problems for particular students, and adapt the software to students' sensory modalities. (CL)

Suggestions are offered regarding the use and selection of software with LD (learning disabled) students. The scarcity of appropriate software for the population is pointed out and a hybrid selection scale based upon several existing scales is described. It is noted that the major reason for rejecting software is the high readability skill…

The article examines constraints imposed by school environments and impacts of systematic microcomputer-administered testing. Considered are physical integration of the microcomputer in the classroom, scheduling factors, hardware malfunctioning, pupil and teacher characteristics. The authors suggest tempering enthusiasm regarding computer-based…

The article describes typical kinds of writing problems found in fourth grade learning disabled students and discusses ways in which the computer makes the child's planning and composing problems more accessible to teacher help. Similarly, pitfalls of such accessibility are also cited. (CL)

The article describes ways in which learning disabled students can use simple database management and word processing programs as active users. Involvement in these types of computer applications allows the user to be an active, creative communicator. (CL)

Technology plays a pivotal role in modifying curriculum for students with learning disabilities, especially in five areas: (1) criteria for software selection; (2) computer games; (3) use of the Internet across the curriculum; (4) multimedia use; and (5) hypermedia use. Specific activities for modifying the curriculum for this population are…

This article provides teachers a framework for choosing computer software to assist with writing instruction for students with learning disabilities. The various writing problems that software programs can address are described. Appendices include a writing needs checklist, writing requirements checklist, and list of features of computer-supported…

Computer software that promotes creative and higher level thinking skills and develops writing ability in gifted students with learning disabilities is examined. Brief descriptions and appropriate grade levels are offered for such programs as "Science Toolkit,""Advisor,""VCR Companion,""Rocky's Boots,""Hinky/Pinky,""Story Sketches,""Author!…

A rationale is presented for infusing computer strategies into the social studies curricula of learning-disabled students. Guidelines are provided to assist in choosing such computer tools as tutorials, simulations, word processors, databases, spreadsheets, and graphics. Suggestions for developing appropriate teaching strategies are also offered.…

The report presents a framework for the application of a curriculum model to computer programs designed for special education students, specifically slow learners and learning disabled students in regular and special education classes. The program content includes selected basic skills instructional components that are transferable to a computer.…

The two studies established an empirically derived set of guidelines for producing and evaluating microcomputer courseware for students with learning disabilities. About 100 teachers of learning disabled students in Pennsylvania and Virginia participated in field testing the guidelines. The first study was conducted in four steps: first,…