In this study, we examine preschool storybook apps to identify the types of characters represented in these stories and how they relate to design quality and opportunities for children to build their vocabularies -- a significant predictor of later success in learning to read. Specifically, we sought to understand (a) how storybook apps portray…

Parents of young children with disabilities are discovering that carefully selected computer software and mobile apps can provide many benefits such as improved self-esteem, a longer attention span, and inclusion among family and other children that help their children succeed at home and in school. PACER's Simon Technology Center (STC) can help…

Educational research will likely never be able to keep pace with technological innovation. It therefore will become increasingly important that early childhood professionals rely on existing knowledge to effectively evaluate and integrate emerging technology in the natural environment rather than waiting for a broad platform of research to inform…

These proceedings contain the papers of the 12th International Conference on Mobile Learning 2016, which was organized by the International Association for Development of the Information Society, in Vilamoura, Algarve, Portugal, April 9-11, 2016. The Mobile Learning 2016 Conference seeks to provide a forum for the presentation and discussion of…

This resource guide explains the differences between shareware and public domain computer software programs. Over 90 sources that make these programs available are listed, including organization name, address, telephone number, general costs, and computer types. Several sources that specialize in special education software or adaptive software are…

Some of the most hopeful applications of computers and computer software (particularly as prosthetic devices to aid communication) exist in the area of special education. Several of these applications are discussed. (JN)

This article examines the impact of computer technology in social skills assessment for people with disabilities. The article describes the technology, implications of the technology, and the role of micro versus macro analysis in social skills assessment. Implications for direct service and research are discussed. (JDD)

The guide presents annotations on 335 resources, journal articles, books, associations, and reports dealing with computer utilization for handicapped persons in rehabilitation and education. Author and subject indexes precede the annotations which are arranged alphabetically. Citations usually include information on title, author, source, date,…

A survey of 3,581 rehabilitation facilities was conducted to determine their extent of computer use. Completed surveys were returned by 1,586 (44 percent) of the facilities, of which 864 (54 percent of the respondents) are using computers. The users indicated that computers are most frequently used for administrative purposes, whereas production…

The information is offered to acquaint teachers with the scope and nature of microcomputer applications in special education. A brief history of computers traces the changes in the past 40 years. Information on basic computer operations covers such aspects as data storage, the nature of application programs, disk drives, and floppy disks.…

Reports on computer-assisted instruction materials for use in special education settings (readiness level, reading, math, home and school, remedial/secondary, career/vocational education, programing/computer literacy, adaptive communication devices); professional application software (authoring systems, administration, testing); and software…

A survey of 15 developers of computerized real-time observation systems found many systems have incorporated laptop or handheld computers as well as bar-code scanners. Most systems used IBM-compatible software, and ranged from free to complete systems costing more than $1,500. Data analysis programs were included with most programs. (Author/CR)

This article reviews the many adaptations and applications of microcomputer technology for handicapped children. Specific hardware and software applications are reviewed in relation to their impact on specific handicapping conditions. It suggests that computer applications to the amelioration of handicapping conditions necessarily changes our…

This article describes (1) IBM's National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities, a clearinghouse of information about adaptive devices, software, and support groups helping disabled persons use IBM computers; (2) special IBM products, including the Screen Reader, SpeechViewer, and PhoneCommunicator; and (3) an IBM-sponsored program whereby…

This overview of nonexperimental causal research methods focuses on latent variable structural equation modeling using the LISREL computer program. An extended example in special education is used to present LISREL as an extension of structural equations analysis (path analysis) and as a method of reducing the effects of error in research.…