A study of applications of microcomputer technology in special education in western Massachusetts schools.

The purpose of this study is to survey microcomputer applications in special education in Western Massachusetts Schools and, in particular, to assess the extent to which special education is moving beyond drill and practice software with special needs students. Data were collected from 185 special education teachers by a questionnaire and follow-up interviews from eleven special education teachers in Western Massachusetts. Results showed that computers and software are generally integrated in special education teachers\u27 curricula. They used the microcomputer as a compensatory tool to sharpen students\u27 mathematics skills, language arts and reading comprehension. Some special education teachers also used computers for language assessment, speech training, eye-hand coordination and communication. Apple computers were the most popular brand used in this study. Adaptive devices such as firmware cards, switches, and speech synthesizers were used to help special needs students access computers. Computer-assisted instruction, word processing and games were the most popular software used. Students worked on computers generally alone, or in a small group, or in combination; the amount of supervision required depended upon students\u27 functioning level and physical limitations. Most special education teachers did not teach and computer language; only a few teachers explored Logo or BASIC with their students. Special education teachers realized that the computer is a good tool to motivate students and to increase self-esteem and attention; they received some inservice training on computer uses, but complained that it was not enough to help their students. Factors making it difficult for special education teachers to use computers were: lack of appropriate software, teachers being behind the trend, not enough class time to use computers, and perceptions of computers as dehumanizing. The study concludes with recommendations for increasing special education teachers\u27 computer training via input from hardware and software experts, and for requiring special education teachers to take introductory computer courses such as Logo, BASIC programming, authoring language systems and software evaluation. Also, it recommends that school administrations give financial and technical support for such training in order to use microcomputers and related devices more effectively

Some experiments in man-machine interaction relevant to computer assisted learning

Various techniques for the communication of instructional material are outlined. Some experiments relevant to the design of multi-media computer assisted learning systems are then described

Electronic Information in School Libraries

Microcomputers have progressed from toys to tools in managing school libraries. Equipment inventory, circulation, online catalogs, acquisitions, and serials management/check-in have all been affected. In addition, high technology has presented new possibilities for educating young people, and school librarians are faced with a role change as they rise to meet this challenge.published or submitted for publicatio

AEMI: The Actuated Embedded Musical Instrument

This dissertation is a combination of acoustic and electronic musical creation, acoustic instruments and digital instruments, and a combination of all of these areas. Part I is an original composition for orchestra with the new instrument set as soloist. Part II is an examination of the development and influences of creating a new electronic musical instrument. Part I is a composition for AEMI (the Actuated Embedded Musical Instrument) and orchestra, entitled “Meditation on Solids, Liquids, and Gas.” This composition is a dialogue between the orchestra and instrument, set as an exchange of ideas; sometimes ideas lead to conflict, others lead to resolution. This also serves as a way to feature some of the musical capabilities of this new instrument. Part II is an examination of AEMI and its influences. Chapter 1 includes a discussion of existing instruments whose similar features influenced the development of AEMI: the Theremin, Manta, JD-1, Buchla controller, EVI and EWI, and Chameleon Guitar. While AEMI instrument does not have the same performance mechanics as the Theremin, Evi, or Ewi, understanding the physicality issues of an instrument, like the Theremin, provided insights into creating a versatile instrument that can be easily learned yet have virtuosic character. Ultimately, embedding expressivity, such as subtlety and nuance into the instrument, would be one of the most difficult aspects of creating an instrument and would demand the largest amount of work. Chapter 2 describes the aesthetics, technical aspects, difficulties, and musical abilities of the instrument. Attempts to combine acoustic and electronic music are not novel, the incorporation of acoustically driven resonance by electronic embedded instruments is new. The electroacoustic nature of this instrument is different than most electronic instruments. The controller and user interface is electronically driven, and its speakers/acoustic drivers are embedded within the instrument. This discussion may provide insights to musicians, composers, and instrument makers involved in the finding of new avenues of musical expression

Whalesong

Smith to travel to Regent meeting -- Micro-Computer Lab opens -- Holiday Closure -- Rational planning needed -- Special Olympics -- Whalesong Quality -- Adams-Down Syndrome Educator -- Whalesong debuts in 1976 -- Larsen; Alger strengthen UAJ Ski Team -- Student Commissioner ends term in office -- Ex-Seahawk Offensive Lineman to visit UAJ -- New Book chronicling LSD history doing well -- College officials "barnstorm" for funds -- Fergle University's mail order diplomas -- 9-1/2 Weeks - Basinger stunning -- Espresso Bars, latest in Yuppie Phenomena -- Dvorak; Keyboard innovation -- Beeton/Koester attend conferences on women's studies -- UAJ proposed in 1946 -- UAJ's Campus Security receives high marks -- Sharon Cook - "Job most enjoyable" -- NATIONAL COLLEGE NEWS SHORTS -- Classified

Group Lesson Training Packet(s) on the Selection and the Uses of Personal Computers in ther Home

The purpose of this project report was to provide a group lesson training packet on the selection and the uses of personal computers in the home including information on their history, their basic components, the criteria to evaluate the need for one, and resource materials available on the topic. The instructional materials developed included: a leader\u27s guide, visual aids, a videocassette tape, an activity sheet, information sheets, two evaluation tools, and a partial listing of existing Extension instructional materials on microcomputers

Authoring System for Courseware Development: What Should Beginners Look For?

This paper is an introduction to courseware authoring systems, which are defined as software devised for an instructional environment that simplifies courseware development. The process of courseware authoring is described as consisting of two basic elements: computer and lesson. These two elements are further subdivided and the use of authoring systems to simplify each of these subcomponents is described. Suggestions are made for educators who are considering authoring systems to be used to develop courseware