Suggests what to look for when evaluating software and its support literature; includes a software evaluation checklist. (Available from: Modern Learning Publishers, Inc., 6517 Liggett, Oakland, CA 94611, $14.) (AEA)

Briefly discusses the important criteria by which microcomputer programs intended for instructional use should be evaluated, presents a series of guidelines for submitting reviews of computer programs developed for instructional purposes (courseware), and provides a copy of the Curriculum Review Courseware Evaluation Form. (JL)

A computer program for PET users is presented that simulates a probability machine. (MP)

A mathematical technique for solving for the interest rate of a given annuity is explained. The technique is applied to a BASIC program that finds interest rate given the future value, number of payments, and the value of the payment. (MP)

There is an abundance of educational software available, the quality of which ranges from invaluable to a waste of money. The following guidelines should make shopping for software as painless as possible: (1) know your objectives; (2) be sure the software fits your equipment; (3) consider dealer support; (4) consider brand names first; (5) check…

A listing is given for this computer game for a PET computer. An example of one game concluded with a challenge to find a winning strategy. (MP)

Reviews user-adaptable learning games that can be customized for any subject, including Tic Tac Show and the Game Show from Computer Advanced Ideas, which are question-answer learning programs based on game shows, and Master Match from Computer Advanced Ideas and Square Pairs from Scholastic Inc., which are based on the card game Concentration.…

Describes a program written in BASIC, called BIGNUM, that was designed to aid in handling big numbers. The program adds, subtracts, multiplies, divides, and raises to a power integers of up to 1024 decimal digits and is thought to be usable on many types of machines. (MP)

Presents a program in Level II BASIC for a TRS-80 computer that simulates a Turing machine and discusses the nature of the device. The program is run interactively and is designed to be used as an educational tool by computer science or mathematics students studying computational or automata theory. (MP)

A software package designed for touch-typing instruction is reviewed, focusing on features, educational value, design quality, written materials, and ease of use. (MP)

A program in BASIC for the Atari 400 or 800 computer that generates Haiku poetry is presented and explained. The program is noted to be easily modifiable to create other forms. The view expressed in the program could become the basis for a student laboratory in expressive communication. (MP)

The history and current nature of CONDUIT, an organization that reviews, tests packages and distributes computer-based materials, is presented. Although many of the units available are designed for collegiate instruction, some can be used at the high school level, particularly for enrichment studies for juniors and seniors. (MP)

Four programs are reviewed: Crossword Magic, Master Type, The Vocabulary Baseball Game, and Meet the Presidents. The major innovations highlighted by the products selected are the ways the creators turned learning into a game. It is noted that whether this approach is desirable is for the individual teacher to decide. (MP)

Explains the educational value of computer simulations in general and provides specific areas of computer application in teaching of chemistry, biology, and physics. Explains the application of instructional materials developed in the Chelsea Science Simulation Project. (GS)

Appropriate software can turn the microcomputer from the dumb box into a teaching tool. One resource for finding appropriate software is the organization Edunet. It allows the user to access the mainframe of 18 major universities and has developed a communications network with 130 colleges. It also handles billing, does periodic software…