The paper describes concepts and principles resulting in successful applications of computer technology to the needs of the disabled. The first part describes what a microcomputer is and is not, emphasizing the microcomputer as a machine that simply carries out instructions, the role of programming, and the use of prepared application programs.…

Developed to fill a gap in preservice and inservice training, the materials focus on training special education administrators and program specialists to use computers in program management. Materials include packets to be reproduced for participants as well as outlines, transparency masters, lists of audiovisual materials, and scripts for…

The document is part of the final report on Project STEEL (Special Teacher Education and Evaluation Laboratory) intended to extend the utilization of technology in the training of preservice special education teachers. This volume focuses on the second of four project objectives, the development of a special education teacher computer literacy…

Describes microcomputer-based hardware, software, and adaptive devices that are available to help disabled students based on experiences in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Highlights include speech synthesizers; devices for computer monitors that bypass the need to use a keyboard; switches sensitive to light, movement, and air; and word…

Results of a survey of 298 special education/teacher education programs indicated that: (1) the institutions were not utilizing available technology; (2) there was no relationship between systematic planning and success of new technology; (3) and the most common technology adopted was microcomputers used for computer-assisted instruction and word…

A list of microcomputing competencies associated with functions that special education professors typically perform was assessed by 148 special education faculty who use microcomputers. Word processing was rated as the single most useful competency, along with the category of providing instruction about microcomputer applications in special…

The use of microcomputers in language arts instruction with exceptional students can be an effective tool for both teaching and reinforcing skills, but is not typically employed as an integral part of the overall language arts curriculum. Research studies substantiate the positive impact on student performance when microcomputers are effectively…

This guide provides a collection of ideas for word processing activities that teachers have found to be useful in special education classes. The guide begins with a list of 41 computer skills, the grade levels at which the skills are usually introduced (from kindergarten to secondary levels), and provides names of commercial programs which may be…

This paper reviews the current role of microcomputers as either a cognitive or sensory prosthesis, and evaluates their potential for meeting the learning needs of exceptional students. In the area of declarative learning, computers are used for drill and practice, tutoring, and "intelligent' tutoring. In the area of procedural learning,…

This paper proposes four scenarios to guide future research investments by the federal Office of Special Education Programs in classroom uses of instructional technology for learners with disabilities. Sets of research and development activities to promote effective use of technology are proposed for: (1) reading instruction; (2) writing…

This document is a collection of 46 papers concerning the use of microcomputers in vocational education. Most of the papers relate hands-on experiences that vocational educators in various parts of the country have had with microcomputers in vocational education subjects, while others include suggested ways of coping with computer introduction,…