The paper reports on the application of a computer local area network and software to develop both literacy skills and science content knowledge in 15 deaf students. The network approach allows for interaction between a large number of students and the teacher both within and outside the context of the lesson and utilizes support programs to allow students to participate in group exercises. The network was used with an earth science instructional program which requires extensive reading and writing as students communicate with each other and the teacher and as they complete the instructional tasks. Preliminary evaluation indicates increased student time on literacy activities. Analysis of electronic mail messages and instructional responses allowed teachers to obtain more reliable information about student instructional needs. Includes four references. (DB)