How do we know when an educational organization, process, or courseware tool is "innovative"? How do we define the processes that encourage change or the ways in which faculty "develop" new courseware "innovations"? The terms "innovation", "change", and "development" have been overused in so many contexts that they now seem to have lost their…

Computer softward called "Immigration: Maintaining the Open Door" helps elementary school students better understand what's involved in allowing or stopping immigration. This program is part of a series of software called "Decisions Decisions," which presents situations based on historical or contemporary issues. (CB)

Because finding software that exactly complements curriculum objectives is so difficult, many software designers have developed educational programs with authoring features that allow teachers to change the content but not the format of coursework. Four programs simple enough for students to take creative control of are reviewed. (MT)

Solutions to concern over computer software copyright infringement include seeking a licensing agreement with the software publisher or negotiating with a supplier for discounts on multiple copies of a program. The best sourcebook for guidance is "Software Quality and Copyright: Issues in Computer-Assisted Instruction," by Virginia Helm. (DCS)

Software programs which help students' vocabulary development are described. (CB)

Three software programs which encourage children to learn geography and have fun are reviewed. Complementary activities are suggested. (MT)

Software available to physical educators both for general or administrative purposes and for educational purposes is discussed. Appended is a list of software with availability information and a list of vendors. (MT)

Describes an Applesoft computer program which determines the shear and moment diagrams for any combination of four different load configurations on a simply supported beam. Examples of different load configurations and the diagrams produced are included. Also included is the program listing. (JN)

Among tips suggested for teachers adjusting to the presence and use of computers in the classroom are: teach students about the keyboard; allow students to teach you about using the computer; find out and stay knowledgeable about software and students' interests; and share ideas with other teachers. (CB)

The computer is an exciting medium for art, especially for projects involving color and line, motivating even the most reluctant young artist. Input devices are described. The first four lessons are suggested and ways to display the art projects are covered. (MT)

The way in which an elementary school teacher involved her students with computer software to create a calendar for school activities (including students' birthdays) is described. Software helpful for this procedure is briefly reviewed. (CB)

Two voice-generating software programs, a speech synthesizer, and a touch-sensitive screen that allows young children to bypass the keyboard are described. (MT)

Teachers are using computer programs in conjunction with many classroom staples such as art supplies, math manipulatives, and science reference books. Twelve software programs and related activities are described which teach visual and auditory memory and spatial relations, as well as subject areas such as anatomy and geography. (MT)

This directory highlights 42 software programs that are either designed for or useful in the instruction of learning disabled students. Among the content areas covered are mathematics, language, spelling, auditory memory, and spatial relationships. Information on instructional level, price, and distributor is also provided for each entry. (JW)

Presents several computer-oriented activities dealing with electronic dice, reading menus, rhyming words, and a high-technology version of musical chairs. Although these activities assume a certain level of computer expertise, each one can be easily adapted in any grade. (JN)