Misconceptions surrounding the use of microcomputers in education are cited, including that computing is a short-lived fad, that there is a minimum of good software available, that students should work individually on computers, and that teachers will write their own educational software. (CL)

The Computer Tutor Program employs children to teach teachers in the functions and uses of microcomputers. The teachers then teach other students to program, play games, do routine tasks, and use a word processor. (CL)

The Learning Skills Program at Cabrillo College (Aptos, California) utilizes microcomputers to provide diagnostic and instructional services to learning disabled adults enrolled in this two-year community college. (SW)

A resource room teacher describes the versatility of a microcomputer in programing for learning disabled or emotionally handicapped students (grades K-8). She cites the microcomputer's contributions to student self-concept. (CL)

Guidelines for evaluating and selecting software for computer assisted instruction of learning disabled students touch on technical adequacy, instructional effectiveness, and matters of presentation format (rate, modality, feedback, and reinforcement aspects.) (CL)

SPELL MASTER, a microcomputer-based spelling instruction system, provides the basis from which teachers can individualize learning disabled students' spelling lessons. Additional features include provision of daily and cumulative reports and establishment of criterion-referenced tests to place and monitor spelling performance. (CL)

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…

Computer programers need to understand educational theory about how children learn in order to devise software that will incorporate a multisensory approach for students' unique learning styles. (CL)

The computer's role in matching instructional content and method to the learning disabled student's individual cognitive style is examined for the four phases of instructional delivery: assessment, prescription, evaluation, and instruction. (DB)

Learning disabled, educable mentally retarded, trainable mentally retarded, and gifted students (fifth through eighth grade) participated in a supplemental computer-assisted project in the Farrell Middle School (Farrell, Pennsylvania) to improve students' skills in the areas of computation, concept development, problem solving, and application.…

Computers can be used in a study skills program for students with mild disabilities to enhance text comprehension in content areas, develop vocabulary, organize and monitor errors of written work, and increase research skills for information location. (MSE)

The introduction to the special section on microcomputers in special education reviews the trend toward increasing computer use, raises such issues as the need for special educators to provide leadership in the use of computers for individualized instruction, and summarizes remaining articles in the section. (DB)

Microcomputers can promote productive and engaged learning time with special education students, when teachers: combine microcomputer experiences with use of manipulative materials, utilize small cooperative student groups as well as individual microcomputer time, provide direct teaching, monitor performance, and promote generalization through…

Ideas are presented for using microcomputers as a tool for curriculum modification with mild to moderate special needs students in various instructional situations. The focus is on the use of microcomputers in modifying the way curriculum content is presented by the teacher, received by the student, practiced and studied, and demonstrated and…