Educational Media Reviews Online

This video is one of five programs that focus on computer science advances in the Advances in Science and Technology Series distributed by Chip Taylor Communications. Set in areas of England, Technology and Education includes seven segments with each providing some background on the development of the technology as well as the educational benefit. Specific segments illustrate the creation of a plastic “easy-to-play clarinet” helpful for beginners but still useful for accomplished performers (Child’s Play); the use of digital equipment to build pipe organs (Electric Organ); the development of Talkmate, an electronic speech processor to help the hearing impaired produce words (Computer Talk); computer imaging and computer panels to help read lips for interactive dialogue between humans and computers (Talking Heads); the use of an electronic synthesizer to help children create music with sound beams (Soundbeam); the use of light and sound to help children with profound disabilities (Lights, Sound, Help); and the development of BOLA, “the most accurate hardball throwing machine in the world” (BOLA).

Of particular significance is the effect each of the technologies will have on instruction and therapy with children with disabilities. The information presented will help music, speech and art therapists, teachers of special education and sports education, and demonstrate to all interested in computer technology, the potential and challenges involved in using computers to help mankind. Although each segment is short, the demonstrations provide a visual synopsis of the technology accompanied by narration for the description. Captions introduce each segment and the audio is clear although the abrupt ending of the last segment occurs as a surprise before the final credits.

This video is important for teacher training and education programs and computer science programs. It is helpful for therapists and teachers working with children with serious disabilities. It can also provide the general public with excellent background about the newest advances with computer technology and the use many scientists and educators in England are making of the technology.