The author submits that the question has changed from "What does it do?" to "How can I use this thing in my teaching?" He argues that teachers need time, training, and access to information about software and how it relates to the curriculum. (MT)

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 presentation describes PILOT (Programmed Inquiry, Learning or Teaching), a special programing language easy for beginners to learn and available for several brands of microcomputers. PILOT is explained to contain substantially fewer commands than most other languages and to be written in an easy to understand manner. Edit commands and their…

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 authors suggest that students with learning disabilities can profit from instruction via microcomputers. However, adaptation of the keyboard design, promotions of higher interaction levels, and emphasis on an auditory link may be necessary. The PLATO system allows auditory presentation of instructions and feedback and response via a…

Provides a few examples of the use of the microcomputer in the classroom, emphasizing the advantages of the small machine. Notes the availability of tools to create instructional materials on the microcomputer. (Author/IRT)

Discusses what microcomputers are, what they can do, some of the problems surrounding their use, and how educators can control their introduction and use in schools. (TJ)

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…

Fourteen computer software programs are described that offer instruction in a variety of subject matter areas. (DF)

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)

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…

Presents evaluation guidelines for educational software for educators with limited knowledge of computers. (MD)

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 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 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)