Despite advances in custom hardware and software which make computers accessible to visually impaired individuals, service delivery systems have not kept pace with the technology. A range of new services needs to be established through computer-access centers if visually impaired individuals are to realize full benefits of the new technologies.…

This paper describes the findings of an OECD project examining ICT impact measurement and analyses based on official statistics. Both economic and social impacts are covered and some results are presented. It attempts to place ICT impacts measurement into an Information Society conceptual framework, provides some suggestions for standardising…

There has long been a power struggle between techies and teachers over classroom computer desktops. IT personnel tend to believe allowing "inept" educators to have unfettered access to their computer's hard drive is an open invitation for trouble. Conversely, teachers often perceive tech support to be "uncaring" adversaries standing in the way of…

Discusses the use of computer conferencing in education; addresses difficulties involved in conferencing software, including computer literacy, the communications technology, the conferencing interface, integration with other software, and limitations on access; and describes FICS (Friendly Interface to Conferencing System) that was developed at…

In this end piece, the authors argue that while this special issue shifts debates on the digital divide to address students' capacity to use Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for productive social purposes, access to ICT remains a major challenge in countries like Uganda, in which less than 1% of the population has access to the…

This paper examines the goal of providing transparent computer access to people with disabilities, especially those with visual impairments. First, four basic strategies to provide this population with access to technology are identified: (1) building features into the computer, operating system, or application programs; (2) using adaptive…

This article discusses part-time faculty members and the importance of educational technology for these part-time faculty members. Institutions invest large amounts of money in technologies meant to improve students' educational experience and the efficiency with which institutions serve students. The most common technology in which colleges…

This article explores ways computers can be used in special education resource rooms. Discusses management of computer access, integration of computer into curriculum, software selection, and negative computer practices. Models of computer use, including use of computer as individual learning center and use of computer as a cognitive "tool kit" …

Computers have the potential of creating new barriers and widening the gap between disabled and able-bodied people, because computers are extending the capabilities of non-handicapped individuals at a greater rate than for the handicapped. Access to standard computers and standard software must be provided to handicapped individuals by either…

Discusses problems in the use of performance support systems in higher education. The following issues are addressed (1) development, including software development, collaboration with users, and instructor skills; (2) access, including physical environment limitations; (3) training for students and faculty; (4) student resistance; (5) teaching…

Firsthand classroom observations on the use of computers in instruction reveal some excellent uses of the computer, particularly with reading and writing instruction. Yet there are many schools in which most children are denied access to computers. The children most likely to be using computers are those who attend suburban or small city schools…

Examines some of the problems that must be solved before the Internet can realize its educational potential, including access that is educationally beneficial; hardware and software availability; charges for Internet access; technical and curriculum support; lack of coherent structure, stability, and documentation; censorship; and quality control.…

This paper examines the controversial problem of the availability of and access to computers, training, and technology, and the availability of and access to all types of learners. Technologies must be designed with diverse learners in mind in order to fully realize their capacity and contribution to the field of education. If the need for…

The development of digital content raises new issues as rapid technological developments challenge existing business models and government policies. This OECD study identifies and discusses six groups of business and public policy issues and illustrates these with existing and potential OECD Digital Content Strategies and Policies: (1) Innovation…