The role of the computer as manager of instruction in special education is discussed. In Part 1, basic computer terms are introduced under the major headings of data measurement, hardware, and software. Part 2 focuses on selection criteria for microcomputers. Suggestions for evaluating software are given in terms of ease of use, documentation,…

Intended for special education directors responsible for managing preparation of individualized education programs (IEPs), the booklet suggests ways to streamline the IEP process by using computers. An initial chapter suggests ways to reduce the IEP paperwork, such as preselecting goal areas and proposed objectives in advance of the IEP meeting.…

Intended for classroom teachers, answers questions regarding use of microcomputers in teaching, defining some concepts associated with computer technology. Information provides number, kind, and adaptation of microcomputers for special education students. Suggestions for using microcomputers in programs for students, teachers, and administrators…

The paper describes a microcomputer disk, Data Based Program Modification (DBPM), which allows special and regular educators to monitor the progress of each student, thereby perceiving the effectiveness of the instructional program. The advantages of such a formative evaluation approach are considered. The development of the DBPM is outlined in…

As computers become better suited for classroom use--in terms of both design and cost--two limitations stand in the way: (1) lack of educationally sound programs or software (called courseware in education); and (2) lack of a computer language that teachers can easily use to create or adapt courseware for their classrooms. (CJ)

The first edition of this journal features seven papers on computers in special education. D. Berkell reviews basic information in "For the Uninitiated: What Teachers Should Know about Computers." D. Shanahan briefly describes a computer problem solving program in "Robots in the Kindergarten." J. Beckerman relates her own experiences using…

The directory lists and describes commercially produced software/courseware useful for special education. Companies are listed in alphabetical order and each entry includes basic directory information (company name, address, telephone number, and contact person); company information (type, hardware, level, handicapping condition for which the…

A five-phase study was conducted to evaluate all major computer systems used in writing IEPs (individualized education programs) in California. A "manual" sample composed of four Special Education Local Planning Agencies (SELPAs) that did not use computers was surveyed and responses compared with SELPAs that did use computers. An analysis of…

This fact sheet covers the possible uses of microcomputers in second language classrooms, addressing skills needed by instructors, types and uses of the available software, steps for program implementation and future applications. Published resources which can aid second language teachers in locating and evaluating applicable courseware,…

Lists ways that computer-managed instruction can help teachers, especially teachers using "outcome-based learning" methods. (Author/JM)

Discusses the advantages of using computer managed instruction (CMI) at all grade levels for record keeping, testing, and providing pupils with formative evaluation and diagnostic feedback. Several CMI software packages for use on different microcomputers, including authoring systems, are described and their prices are given. (EAO)

Summarizes the characteristics and special features in a variety of mainframe, minicomputer, and microcomputer systems; discusses the applicability of each in school instruction; provides information about hardware, instructional capabilities, courses, and curricula available from computer manufacturers/publishers; and discusses future uses and…

This paper offers an historical perspective as to why teachers may be reluctant to accept new technologies, and what might persuade them to use computers in their classrooms. The analysis also suggests some methods for minimizing the inhibiting factors and maximizing the acceptance of computers in elementary and secondary school settings.…

The Individualized Education Program Monitoring Analysis Plan (IEP MAP), an approach for evaluating the effectiveness and legal compliance of the IEP process for handicapped students, is presented. It is explained that the IEP MAP should help to improve communication between parents and regular and special education staff, improve consistency of…

In four chapters, this research report on computers in education examines computer hardware (the machinery) and software (or courseware, programmed instructions that tell the hardware what to do), classroom uses of computers, ways of bringing computers into the schools, and four districts that have successfully introduced computers into their…