Technology and Teacher Education in Special Education: Disaster or Deliverance?

Abstract

Existing and emerging technologies have many implications for service delivery and for teacher education in special education. Today's educators need to know how to implement assistive technology, computer instruction, and telecommunications networking in special education and disability services programs for individuals with disabilities of all ages. Teacher education programs in special education need to prepare prospective and practicing personnel to implement technology through technology integration into the curriculum, development of multimedia learning materials and design and delivery of distance education programs. However, there is insufficient research to clarify the impact of technology on service delivery and teacher education and few models of training to prepare educators to use technology in schools, colleges, and universities. This article examines current and future trends in technology in special education and in teacher education; addresses the positive and negative impact of technologies on service delivery and on personnel preparation; and explores how educators' attitudes and reactions and toward emerging technologies will determine the future of teacher education in special education.