Hundreds of students in Baltimore City Public Schools cannot benefit fully from a traditional educational program because they have a disability that impairs their ability to participate in a typical classroom environment. However, computer-based technologies can facilitate a broader range of edu-cational activities to meet a variety of needs for students with mild learning disorders and students with severe disabilities.

Assistive Technology enables these students to become active learners in the classroom alongside their peers who do not have disabilities. Computer technology plays an important role in the classroom for children with special needs, using tools for word processing, communication, research and multimedia projects.

LINC is working with classroom teachers in Baltimore City schools on how to use technology effectively to allow students with special needs‹from speech and hearing impairments to blindness and severe physical disabilities‹to overcome a wide range of limitations and foster full classroom participation. The elementary schools that are working with LINC include Mount Royal, Gardenville, Glenmount and Garrett Heights.

The number of children with disabilities in Baltimore City Schools has been steadily increasing over the past ten years. Students with learning disabilities and emotional problems have accounted largely for that rapid increase. It is estimated that nearly 60% or more of all children receiving special services in Baltimore City schools fall into these categories.

Many computer-based applications‹such as the internet, communication technologies, CD-ROM reference materials, and multimedia presentation tools can provide students with opportunities to use their skills to engage in projects that address real world problems. This school year LINC will provide students with CD-ROM reference materials that include Encarta Encyclopedia, Virtual Serengetti, and A.D.A.M./The Inside Story; curriculum support software such as MathPad, Simon Sounds It Out, Intellitalk II, Inspiration, and Skills Bank; and multimedia software, like Kid Pix 3, PowerPoint and Imagination Express. LINC staff will instruct and guide classroom teachers in the use of this software and will keep them informed about the many resources available to them on the Internet. LINC staff will be on call for the teachers for any technical support they need throughout the year.