This set of information sheets is intended to improve practice in special education through technology, media, and materials. The first information profile introduces NCIP (the National Center to Improve Practice), gives an example of how one special education administrator uses NCIP resources, and offers suggestions for facilitating NCIP workshops. The second profile, on writing with word prediction software, addresses how word prediction helps students with motor impairments and learning disabilities, offers the stories of two students successfully using word prediction, identifies skills students need to use word prediction, and lists features of different word prediction software programs. The third profile, on using telecommunications networks, considers ways students with disabilities can benefit from these networks, describes successful use by one child, and offers an example of a special education class using electronic mail and examples of network postings on the DO-IT (Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking and Technology) network. The fourth profile, on organizing information with software tools, discusses "Inspiration" software to help students create concept maps and outlines, examples of students using Inspiration, information about an Oregon program helping students use computer-based study methods, and strategies for using Inspiration in the classroom. The fifth profile, on the use of videotapes to improve reading and writing skills, gives examples of the use of video and captioning to teach literacy skills, writing, and reading comprehension. (DB)