The current study meta-analyzed 17 effects from 12 studies to examine the effect of technology-based mathematical fact practice on mathematics outcomes, and how comparison intervention, risk for mathematics disabilities, and type of measure modified the results. There was a moderate effect of technology-based mathematical fact practice on…

Computer-based scaffolding provides temporary support that enables students to participate in and become more proficient at complex skills like problem solving, argumentation, and evaluation. While meta-analyses have addressed between-subject differences on cognitive outcomes resulting from scaffolding, none has addressed within-subject gains.…

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show varying levels of impairment in social skills situations. Interventions have been developed utilizing virtual environments (VEs) to teach and improve social skills. This article presents a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed journal articles focusing on social interventions in VEs…

People with disabilities constitute a collective that requires continuous and customized attention, since their conditions or abilities are affected with respect to specific standards. People with "Acquired Brain Injury" (ABI), or those who have suffered brain injury at some stage after birth, belong to this collective. The treatment these people…

Market factors surrounding computer software in special education are examined, including proliferation of computers in schools, widespread marketing and distribution patterns for software, consumer demands for software, quality, timelessness, emphasis on basic skills, and an understanding of future capabilities. (CL)

The author introduces a series of articles on the use of microcomputers in education, particularly with the disabled. (For related articles, see EC 142 960-962.) (Author)

The author cites comments of B.F. Skinner supporting the benefits of carefully constructed computer assisted instruction (CAI) programs. Preliminary studies on military populations suggesting the value of CAI are discussed, as is the collection of information about software. (CL)

The author reviews the history of the microcomputer and addresses its application needs in special education. Among needs cited are the ability to store and retrieve curriculum resource information and to develop diagnostic testing and automated test construction reporting devices. He also sees the need for software that is neither threatening nor…

This brief analysis defines a videodisc, describes the term "interactive video" and distinguishes among three categories of videodisc systems, defined according to the level of interactivity they provide. Advantages and applications of videodisc (e.g., simulations) are noted. A final section describes selected projects focusing on the…

The authors view microcomputers as an important but as yet limited instructional technology. Guidelines are offered for deciding when and how computer assisted instruction should be used, emphasizing the teacher's role as decision maker and instructional manager. (Author/CL)

Guidelines are offered to help special education teachers select appropriate software and integrate computer-assisted instruction (CAI) into existing curricula. (JW)

The paper describes a 15-hour workshop designed for special and regular educators with little or no previous computer experience. The workshop is intended to provide participants with a wide range of experience in the use of microcomputers in the classroom and to develop a general understanding of the value of computers in working with children in…

The Trace Center (University of Wisconsin) has assembled a registry of hardware/software programs and adaptations for the handicapped user. The registry contains information on augmentative devices for motoric, sensory, or cognitive skills; special inputs that provide access to standard software; and other programs with speech output. (CL)

The article discusses the flexibility of microcomputers in special education and presents answers to questions asked by parents and teachers on such aspects as needed training, quality of educational software, and guidelines for purchasing. A list of 25 sources of instructional courseware is included. (CL)

Special education implications of design issues in computer-assisted and computer-managed instruction are discussed. Reference is made to algorithmic and heuristic procedures, individual rate of learning, feedback, and instructional task hierarchies. (Author/CL)