June 1994 — Features

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Using Computers to Initiate Active Learning for Students With Severe Behavior Problems

Future Considerations Perhaps in the near future, students will be issued a computer instead of books. Perhaps schools and businesses will form alliances to provide students with on-the-job-training opportunities where computers have a real purpose. Research suggests that teaching and learning with computers has tremendous potential for the future. O'Neil recommends creating curricula that integrate engaged learning with the latest technological developments.7 In any case, if education is to be restructured to provide children with a brighter future, educators must construct learning environments that go beyond textbooks and classrooms. This proposal hopes to bring students with severe behavior problems the benefits that their peers receive while simultaneously addressing their specialized learning needs. Karol Reganick is a teacher at Manatee Palms A.S.H. and chair of its Education Department. The facility is a private hospital and its teachers represent Manatee County Schools system. Reganick holds a master's degree in emotionally handicapped education. Comments, questions and workshop requests can be directed to her at (800) 367-7007. References: 1. Cheney, C.O., "Computers and Students With Behavior Disorders: A Review," Computers in the Schools, Vol. 7, No. 3 (1990), pp. 47-60. 2. Fitzgerald, G., Using the Computer With Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders, (1990), ERIC Doc. Reproduction Service No. ED 339 155. 3. Anderson-Inman, L., "Enabling Students With Learning Disabilities: Insights From Research," The Computing Teacher, (Dec./Jan. 1990-91), pp. 26-29. 4. Delcourt, M. and Kinzie, M.B., "Computer Technologies in Teacher Education: The Measurement of Attitudes and Self-Efficacy," Journal of Research and Development in Education, Vol.

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