Microcomputer Applications in Early Childhood Special Education: Problems and Possibilities

Abstract
The range of microcomputer based applications in early childhood special education is briefly characterized in terms of systems management, instructional management, and direct instruction applications. Six current issues relevant to microcomputer applications are then discussed: (1) the need for integrated applications, (2) instructional quality, (3) unreasonable expectations of users, (4) developmental appropriateness of some applications, (5) market limitations, and (6) computer literacy. A set of recommendations is presented at the conclusion of the paper.