The goal of the Connecticut Special Education Computer Network Project is to develop and field test a special education computer network with schools and school districts within the state. SpecialNet, a national computer network of special educators, will be used as the means to achieve this goal. The project, it is hoped, will help to enhance…

The article describes the IBM/Special Needs Exchange which consists of: (1) electronic mail, conferencing, and a library of text and program files on the CompuServe Information Service; and (2) a dial-in database of special education software for IBM and compatible computers. (DB)

Reviews computer networks and online services designed especially for teachers, as well as networks broadly targeted for business, home, and education. Presents a resources directory of networks to assist persons with disabilities. (SR)

The National Special Education Alliance (a national network of local computer resource centers associated with Apple Computer, Inc.) consists, one year after formation, of 24 non-profit support centers staffed largely by volunteers. The NSEA now reaches more than 1000 disabled computer users each month and more growth in the future is expected.…

Suggests that teaching online can be advantageous to a teacher with a physical disability. Notes that the teacher's written voice may have more authority than the physical voice without the interference of students' perceptions of the teacher's physical body. Shows that both teachers and students can benefit from the freedom from concern about…

For over a decade, the Central Kitsap (Washington) School District invested in high-tech infrastructure, staff training, computer hardware and software, and development of in-house technical support. This article describes one elementary school's efforts to empower disabled students via research-based learning activities, computer networking, and…

This report presents results of a survey of 1,275 Individualized Education Program (IEP) managers in Minnesota concerning IEP team collaboration and communication, technology use, IEP manager tasks, and effects of IEP software, both networked and non-networked versions. Survey data were divided into five comparative groups: no use of software to…

Explores the role of computer technology in facilitating communication and problem solving among teachers within a school. Describes "Instruction CoPlanner," a software network package which takes a team of educators through a systematic process of planning, decision making, implementation, and evaluation. (DB)

This report discusses the growth of the National Information Infrastructure (NII), or the information superhighway, and its implications for people with disabilities. Advantages for people with disabilities include: increasing the ability of individuals with some types of disabilities to access and use information; decreasing personal isolation…

This digest offers basic information about resources, available to users of personal computers, in the area of professional development in special education. Two types of resources are described: those that can be purchased on computer diskettes and those made available by linking personal computers through electronic telephone networks. Resources…

The Connecticut Special Education Network for Software Evaluation is intended to help special educators learn about effective software. The network has developed a software evaluation model and instrument which solicits both descriptive and evaluative information on special education courseware. A needs assessment performed in the state in 1983…

This packet, a product of the Advancing Educational Techniques (AET) Project, addresses the theme of empowerment on the part of those working with children who are differently able. The first section explores the concept of empowerment as addressed in current literature and includes an annotated bibliography. Other sections of the packet focus on:…

This overview of adaptive technology for computers and networking identifies issues that must be addressed for people with disabilities to participate fully in online activities. Discussion includes adaptive equipment; Internet access; and graphical user interface (GUI) concerns. Contact information for vendors for adaptive technology and…

This guide to the Internet is geared toward special education teachers. Descriptions of various resources, including discussion groups (sometimes known as LISTSERVS) or conferences that appear to be beneficial for educators who instruct students with learning disabilities, are provided. The explosion in communication via the information…

This annual report documents the activities and accomplishments of the South Carolina State Library in 1989-1990. Introductory materials include lists of the members of both the South Carolina State Library Board and the library staff; an organizational chart; the goals and mission statement of the South Carolina State Library; and a history of…