Hostname: page-component-84b7d79bbc-x5cpj Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-07-27T17:17:26.993Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Computer-based Learning Environments for Children with Special Needs

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 February 2016

Anne Williams*
Affiliation:
D’Alton Special School, Elizabeth Computer Centre, Tasmania

Abstract

How can we use computers effectively? This paper, which is intended for teachers already using computers in their classrooms, outlines and discusses three approaches to using and managing microcomputers with children who have special learning needs. The approaches describe computer-based classroom learning environments for children with a range of learning difficulties and are based on classroom work with children at D’Alton Special School, Hobart. Responses from some children working in these environments are also discussed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © The Australian Association of Special Education 1987

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

References

Bailey, J.G. (1985, September). Using Logo to improve language development and problem-solving in very young children. Paper presented at Australian Association of Special Education Conference, Launceston, Tasmania.Google Scholar
Carnine, D. & Silbert, J. (1979). Direct Instruction Reading. Columbus, OH: Merrill.Google Scholar
Cicchelli, T. & Baecher, R. (1985). Introducing microcomputers into the classroom: A study of teachers’ concerns. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 1 (11), 5565.CrossRefGoogle Scholar
Commonwealth Schools Commission (1985). Teaching, learning and computers in primary schools. Canberra: Author.Google Scholar
Cox, D. & Berger, C.F. (1985). The importance of group size in the use of problem-solving skills on a microcomputer. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 1 (4), 459467.CrossRefGoogle Scholar
Dyson, S. & McShane, R. (1984). Computer education in an information society. Classroom Computing, 4 (2), 1922.Google Scholar
Fox, H. (1986). Dragon world. Classroom Computing, 6 (1), 15.Google Scholar
Gagne, R.M. (1982). Developments in learning psychology. Implications for instructional design, and effects of computer technology on instructional design and development. Educational Technology, June, 1115.Google Scholar
Gold, M. (1980). Development of workskills and competencies. Paper presented at A.G.S.S.O.M.D. Conference, Launceston. Tape Recording no. 2, University of Tasmania.Google Scholar
Goldenberg, E.P. (1984). Computers, education and special needs. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley.Google Scholar
Hagen, D. (1984). Microcomputer resource book for special education. Reston, VA: Reston.CrossRefGoogle Scholar
Hannaford, A. (1983). Microcomputers in special education: Some old problems, some new opportunities. The Computing Teacher, February.Google Scholar
Jackson, M.S. (1979). A technique for encouraging initial reading responses in the zero reader. Paper presented at the National Conference of the Australian Psychology Association, Hobart, Tasmania.Google Scholar
Kulik, J., Bangert, R. & Williams, G. (1984). Effects of computer-based teaching on secondary school students. Instructional Software. Belmont CA: Wadsworth.Google Scholar
McShane, R. (1981). Computers in primary schools. Classroom Computing. 1 (1), 914.Google Scholar
Merrill, P.F. & Salisbury, D. (1984). Research on drill and practice strategics. Journal of Computer-Based Instruction, 11 (1), 1921.Google Scholar
Papert, S. (1980). Mindstorms: Children, learning and powerful ideas. Brighton, Sussex: Harvester Press.Google Scholar
Schiefelbusch, R.L. (1978). Language intervention strategies. Baltimore: University Park Press.Google Scholar
Sheingold, K., Martin, L. & Endreweit, M. (1985). Preparing urban teachers for the technological future. Technical Report no. 36, Centre for Children and Technology, New York.Google Scholar
Slesnick, T. (1986). Computer education research: A blinder for the misguided. In Harper, D. O. & Stewart, J. H, Run: Computer education (2nd ed.). Brooks/Cole.Google Scholar
Smith, A. (1985). What students actually do with word processors. Classroom Computing, 5 (1).Google Scholar
Stonier, T. (1982). The revolution in education.Proceedings of Ninth Australian Computer Conference. Hobart, Tasmania.Google Scholar
Walker, D.F. (1972). Reflections on the educational potential and limitations of microcomputers. Phi Delta Kappan, October.Google Scholar
Williams, A.E. & Williams, R.N. (1985). Using computer technology to develop reasoning abilities in special education students. Classroom Computing, 5 (2), 1–4.Google Scholar
Williams, A.E. (1986). A rationale for using microcomputers in special education. Australian Journal of Special Education, 10 (1), 3034.CrossRefGoogle Scholar