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)

Although microcomputers will undoubtedly make a contribution to special education, educators face problems because of the poor quality of some of the available computer assisted instruction software and the limited supply of hardware. Careful implementation of the strengths of computer technology is necessary. (Author)

The paper indicates major features of microcomputer systems and suggests limitations of the current microcomputer systems for special education applications. Many questions about the effectiveness of computer assisted instruction with special populations remain. Teachers must become computer literate, knowledgeable in instructional classroom…