Cypriot Journal of Educational Sciences 1 (2011) 13-21 www.world-education-center.org/index.php/cjes Technology integration issues in a special education school in Turkey Umit Girgin a * , Adile Askim Kurt a , Ferhan Odabasi a a Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology, Faculty of Education, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey Received June 8, 2010; revised December 05, 2010; accepted February 4, 2011 Abstract Technological advances make life easier for many students with disabilities. However, when technology is discussed in regard to the persons with disabilities, it usually concerns assistive technology such as hearing aids. In fact, in many contexts, information and communications technology (ICT) integration can be more critical than assistive technologies. This study was conducted in a unique school in Turkey established for children with hearing impairment. The school uses the oral-communicative approach, emphasizing the use of hearing aids; however, the potential for educational applications of ICT still needs further study. A research study was undertaken to establish the opportunities for ICT integration in the classroom. The teachers were asked to complete a questionnaire on the ICT integration for the school in order to establish their attitudes towards and uses of ICT in this context. Keywords: ICT, technology integration, special education © 2011 Academic World Education & Research Center. All rights reserved. 1. INTRODUCTION It is now well established that information and communications technology (ICT) can enhance children’s educational, social and cultural experiences and enrich and extend the curriculum. ICT is now also recognized as a tool that equalizes access to knowledge and learning resources. Evolving technologies such as computers, satellite and WiMax communications, learning management systems, open source courseware, mobile phones and PDAs provide a set of powerful tools to equalize learning opportunities for young children across developmental domains and content areas (Hutinger, Bell, Daytner & Johanson, 2006). Special education can also benefit considerably from applications of ICT, providing the pupils with socializing and learning opportunities previously denied to them by their physical or mental impairments. * Umit Girgin. E-mail address: ugirgin@anadolu.edu.tr