First of two parts urges discarding the drill/skills approach to writing in favor of new methods developed through research. Second part discusses research findings related to the cost-effectiveness of reducing class size, using computer-aided instruction, increasing instructional time, and using peer tutors. (PGD)

Educators must think clearly about how they want students' education to improve, what computers can do to help, how that assistance can be accomplished, and whether any of this is affordable. (Author/JM)

Examines two key considerations related to the question of whether computer-based training is justified--training objectives, and costs of developing computer-based programs. Questions on training content, skills to be performed by trainees, specific training objectives, development and revision costs, salaries, and cost estimates are presented to…

Describes reasons for developing combined text and computer assisted instruction (CAI) teaching programs for delivery of continuing education to laboratory professionals, and mechanisms used for developing a CAI program on method evaluation in the clinical laboratory. Results of an evaluation of the software's cost effectiveness and instructional…

While disputing the exaggerated claims for computerized teaching symbolized by Time Magazine's choice of a computer for its 1982 "man of the year," this paper argues that since the technology is omnipresent, and that since it can facilitate learning under certain conditions, teachers should be as informed about it as possible. A discussion of…

Although drill and practice software has lost favor with many educators, research shows that this type of computer-assisted instruction--as a supplement to classroom teaching--increases student achievement, reduces learning time, establishes positive feelings toward both computers and school work, and is effective with lower ability,…

Discussion of local area networks (LAN) includes use in elementary and secondary education and in higher education. Topics addressed include cost of software, instructional advantages, administrative considerations, effective use of computer labs, and computing capacity of microcomputer workstations. A list of LAN vendors and their products is…

Describes the use of computer networks and integrated learning systems (ILS) in education. File servers are explained; operating system software is discussed; hardware differences between local area networks (LANS) and integrated learning systems are described; criteria for purchasing ILS are presented; and initial costs are mentioned. (LRW)

Outlines practical strategies which educational administrators can apply in planning for the use of advanced instructional technologies, and presents a checklist to use in evaluating new instructional devices. Highlights include assessing instructional needs; hardware and software considerations; vendors; costs; and effects of change and…

A recent cost-benefit analysis was made of reduced class size, increased instructional time, computer-assisted instruction, and peer or cross-age tutoring. Tutoring turned out to have the greatest effect on student learning and to be the most cost effective. Implementation of a successful tutoring program is described. (MT)

Discusses the importance of student attitudes as a factor in the successful implementation of computer-assisted instruction at the college level. A study that examined student attitudes and achievement when working with computer-assisted instruction in a personalized system of instruction is described. (36 references) (CLB)

This book is directed to any educator who is interested in the use of the computer to improve classroom instruction. It is a book about the materials, human factors, and decision-making procedures that make up the instructional application of computers. This document's single goal is to promote educators' thoughtful selection and use of both…

Two articles briefly review experiences of secondary schools using DIALOG's Classroom Instruction Program, and four New Jersey school districts that have experimented with using Dow Jones News/Retrieval Service to teach online searching at both the elementary and secondary levels. An annotated bibliography lists 12 relevant journal articles and…

Provides suggestions for using live demonstrations of online searching to promote dynamic interaction in online instruction. Equipment for live demonstrations is described, including a microcomputer, modem, communications software, and computer projection system; search demonstration techniques are discussed; audience dynamics are considered; and…

This report (1) describes a Nebraska school district's implementation of a central data processing capability and (2) summarizes study findings researched in cooperation with International Business Machines (IBM). In the mid-seventies, the district hired data processing personnel and introduced microcomputers into buildings; lack of…