The Use of Microcomputers in Teacher Training Programs

We are currently in a period of technological advancement where a proliferation of computer technology spans industry, business, education, and home. Concurrent with the daily application of computer technology is the demand for improved and advanced training for teachers of hearing-impaired children. Demands on the teacher of the deaf to reevaluate instructional methodology, to reconstruct educational avenues of learning, and to capitalize on the deaf child’s strengths and abilities to learn are increasing so that equal opportunities are available to the deaf child and the nonhandicapped child. This presentation addresses the preservice training of teachers of hearing-impaired children in the use of microcomputers as an instructional tool interwoven into the educational curriculum and incorporating computer graphics, problem solving, and logical thinking. Guidelines for the selection of software will be discussed as well as teacher attitudes and opinions regarding the use of technology in the classroom for the hearing-impaired learner.