Examines the use of personal computers (PCs) in the introductory sociology course. Discusses the functional strengths and weaknesses of PCs. Describes the use of PCs in preparing and presenting visual material, teaching basic concepts and strategies, illustrating analytical storylines, and engaging students in problem solving. Suggests additional…

This study evaluated the importance of active student responding while using the microcomputer to deliver the contingencies of programed instruction. Results from 75 undergraduates found that students who covertly responded to frame blanks or were required to type frame answers performed better on a posttest than students who passively read…

Six teachers who won microcomputers in a contest sponsored by "Instructor" report on their first year with the new machines. Computer programs and related class activities are discussed. (PP)

Students in a remedial composition course at St. Olaf College were required to write all their papers on a microcomputer. It was assumed that text editing would be useful not only in the writing and revision processes, but also in building both confidence and morale as students mastered its techniques. The assignments were explained on Monday, and…

Elements of computer use in teaching are explored. They include equipment expense; availability of quality software; development of interactive instruction; use of graphics, color, flashing, and sound; learner response; and feedback. (CT)

Describes three studies conducted at Pennsylvania State University to determine the effects on achievement and student satisfaction of various ratios of questions or highlights to text in computer assisted instruction (CAI) modules; question or highlight placement; and having questions or highlights on same or following page of target text. (MBR)

Presents findings from a comparison of traditional classroom lecture on lecture-replacement stand-alone PLATO-based delivery made to learn Fortran. Two semesters were examined separately, semester one (n=54) and semester two (n=36), using a two-tailed t-test at .01 level of significance. No difference was found. (JM)

Describes a package of computer programs developed to implement an oil exploration game that gives undergraduate students practical experience in applying theoretical principles of petroleum geology. The programs facilitate management of the game by the instructor and enhance the learning experience. (Author/MBR)

This study tested the benefits of matching field dependent (FD) learners to an algorithmic method and field independent (FI) learners to a discovery method relative to mathematics achievement. It also attempted to discover if FD learners reacted more positively to computer experience than did FI learners. A total of 126 college algebra students…

Describes the Integrated Learning Systems, a system of networked computers running both broad curriculum software and a management system that tracks student progress at St. Gabriel School in Philadelphia. Emphasizes its use as a remedial tool for reading and math, its location inside the classroom, and positive results/ reactions obtained. (BCY)

Since basic writers tend to learn best when only a few skills are presented at a time, composition teachers should introduce these students to word processing and writing simultaneously, demonstrating word processing commands as they complement the writing process. For instance, the use of the insert key can be presented when students need to…

Study of algebra students' response to availability of optional interactive computer graphing lessons analyzed responses of both users and non-users. Information sought included number of lessons completed, students' opinions of value and difficulty of lessons, whether students felt threatened by computer use, and relationship of gender and age to…

Investigates the benefits of using a single personal computer and a projection system to teach undergraduate statistics. Identifies the required hardware and software, as well as the educational objectives and methods. Maintains that this method allows for immediate assessment and feedback. (MJP)

Discusses evaluation criteria for selecting courseware that teaches basic concepts appropriate for preschool and early elementary students. Reviews of the software manual, the courseware itself, and reviews by students are suggested. Other areas of concern that are addressed include instructional quality, production quality, flexibility, and cost.…

Proposes a taxonomy which describes interactivity and adaptation outside the context of any particular medium. Designed to facilitate the instructional design and media selection processes, this taxonomy is represented as a cube whose axes represent interactivity and internal and external adaptation levels. Levels of interactivity and adaptation…