The application of artificial intelligence to the problems of education is examined. One of the most promising areas in artificial intelligence is expert systems technology which engages the user in a problem-solving diaglogue. Some of the characteristics that make expert systems "intelligent" are identified and exemplified. The rise of expert systems is reviewed, and selected present and potential applications of expert systems to the field of learning disabilities are presented, such as the development of an instructional prescription based on assessment information, the classification of students based on assessment information, and the selection of appropriate behavior management strategies based on classroom observational data. (CL)