This paper presents possible strategies for training educators and teacher trainees in microcomputer technology. Particular emphasis is placed upon possible competencies, instructional sequences, and ways in which microcomputers can realistically be infused in education. In discussing teacher competencies, it is pointed out that it is essential to…

In special education, computers can assist with individualized instruction and manage recordkeeping, but instructional applications are frequently limited by software. Educators must become advocates by supporting computer literacy programs and becoming consultants for researchers and software developers to assure the development of quality…

Presents a short overview of individualization, stressing one method of achieving it; makes a statement about the importance of computers in society; and presents one element of computer study--computer literacy--using an individual approach to both teaching and learning. (FL)

Describes areas where Calgary has used its computer assisted instruction (CAI) to aide individuals via diagnostic testing, enrichment programs, remedial study, review and reinforcement, and sequencing materials. Suggests microcomputers play four roles: tutorial, drill/practice, simulation, and testing and record keeping. Discusses problems in…

Describes a computer-assisted instruction project for exceptional children at a rural school district. Five microcomputers were purchased and distributed, in rotation, to the 23 schools in the district for use by 570 learning disabled and 400 gifted students. Results were promising for all concerned. (TE)

Examines such assumptions about the educational benefits of computers in schools as freeing education from its historic limitation as a labor-sensitive industry and allowing for more individualization of instruction. Also considers the effectiveness of software programs in the classroom as well as computer costs and cost effectiveness. (JN)

Discusses the differences between the uses of microcomputers and minicomputers as educational tools. Outlines how a Maryland school district overcame the drawbacks it found in using microcomputers by developing a more comprehensive computer-assisted instruction program using minicomputers. (MD)

The final report describes the syntactic, semantic, and tutorial components of the Interactive Language Instruction Assistance for the Deaf (ILIAD) system and the steps that have been taken to implement ILIAD on a microcomputer. It is explained that the ILIAD design allows for highly interactive tutorials in which the deaf learner specifies the…

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)

Microcomputers can be an asset for the physical educator in dealing with special education students. Factors to keep in mind when exploring the use of computers in the classroom are offered. (DF)

The Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow (ACOT) research project provides classroom sites with equipment, ongoing support, and training, enabling educators to discover the potential of networked learning environments. ACOT networks link together technology from Apple IIe computers and Image Writer printers, to Macintosh II systems, synthesizers, laserdisc…

Educational videodiscs can provide effective instruction, but the cost of hardware needed to perform the desired system functions have been a limiting factor in videodisc use in the classroom. However, many videodisc applications can be adequately and effectively approached with much less than the ideal system, and very little attention has been…

Four systems for computer-assisted instruction are explained and compared here: the PLATO, the TICCIT, the TRS 80, and the Apple II. (JM)

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)

Briefly traces development of contributions of individualized and humanistic instruction to the learning process, discussing computer enhanced collaborative learning, a synergetic combination of computer and person. Indicates that impact of computers in education at present is principally in saving teacher/student time and in raising…