Computer assisted instruction (CAI) studies with the mentally retarded in the United States and Canada reveal that the retarded benefit from CAI in academic and social skills. Their learning is enhanced to the same extent as that of the nonretarded. CAI can be cost-effective, especially with the reduced costs of mini and micro-computers; however, available computer programs are not developed specifically for this population. An integration of available low cost computers and dedicated high quality computer programs is required if the mentally retarded are to benefit from CAI courseware. (Author/SBH)