Microcomputers are becoming an available technology for special education. The article describes the capabilities and features of basic microcomputer systems and describes special education applications: computer assisted instruction, prosthesis, testing, communication, and enhancing personal relations. Problems such as the availability of authoring languages, high quality educational software, and computer safety are described. To include information about what microcomputers can do and how they function is recommended for teacher education and in-service programs.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
CartwrightG. P.HallK.A review of computer uses in special education. In MannL.SabatinoD. (Eds.), The second review of special education. Philadelphia: JSE Press, 1974.
2.
EdwardsJ.NortonS.TaylorS.WeissM.Van DusseldorpR.How effective is CAI? A review of research. Educational Leadership, 1975, 33(32), 147–153.
3.
GoodenoughF. R.HarrisD.Goodenough-Harris drawing test. New York: Harcourt, Brace and World, 1963.
4.
HornW.Computer pals. American Education, 1979, 15(4), 5.
5.
HammR.Effects of CAI in a micro-counseling model for training facilitative use of verbal communication skills. (Doctoral dissertation, East Texas State University, 1975). Dissertation Abstracts International, 1975, 36, 7209-A. (University Microfilms No. 76–11, 948).
6.
JoinerL. M.A technical analysis of the variation in screening instruments and programs in New York State. New York: Center for Advanced Study in Education, City University of New York, 1978.
7.
JungP.New learning aids offer help for the handicapped. Apple, N.D., 1(1), 20–21.
8.
Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium. Report of the MECC microcomputer task force. Lauderdale, Minn.: Author, 1978.
9.
NisenW. G. (Ed.). The Harvard Newsletter on Computer Graphics, July 1979, p. 8.
10.
O'GaraG.Where are the children? The new data game at HEW. The Washington Monthly, June 1979, pp. 35–38.
11.
SuppesP.MorningstarM.Computer assisted instruction at Stanford, 1966–68: Data, models, and evaluation of the arithmetic program. New York: Academic Press, 1972.
12.
ThomasD.The effectiveness of computer assisted instruction in secondary schools. AEDS Journal, 1979, 12(3), 103–116.
13.
AndereckP.Personal Communication, August 14, 1979.
14.
CrandallN.ManfanoM.An analysis of the impact of CAI in a program designed to ameliorate the effects of racial isolation in the Los Nietos school district Testimony presented to the House committee on Domestic Applications of Science and Technology, October 6, 1977.
15.
JoinerL.Evaluation of the Minnesota Learning Disabilities Consortium: Project MLDC. St. Paul, Minn.: Minnesota State Department of Education, 1979.
16.
MartinG. R.ITES research project report: The 1972–73 drill and practice study. St. Paul Minn.: Minnesota School District Data Processing Joint Board, 1973.
17.
TolorA.An evaluation of a new approach in dealing with high school underachievement. Fairfield, Conn.: Fairfield University, 1969.
