Classroom computers, used circumspectly, can make the buzzword “inclusion” a reality rather than a pious aspiration. The catalogue Basic Skills and Special Needs from R-E-M describes dozens of pieces of hardware to support those who find a mouse or a keyboard difficult to use. Moreover, the abundant lists of software, clearly set out and categorised, offer hundreds of possibilities from the simplest kinds of practice in numeracy and literacy to challenging activities involving problem-solving and cause and effect. Articles and evaluations by special needs practitioners help ensure this is an effective as well as an attractive resource.

Basic Skills and Special Needs is available from Rickitt Educational Media, Great Western House, Langport, Somerset TA10 9YU. Tel: 01458 254700; fax: 01458 254701; email: info@r-e-m.co.uk; website: www.r-e-m.co.uk Tom Deveson