The purchase of computer software must come before the purchase of hardware. Otherwise school people may watch an excellent computer collect dust while they search in vain for software that fills their needs. (Author/JM)

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…

Continued from the front cover, this article offers suggestions about selecting and purchasing microcomputers and software for schools. (WD)

It is necessary for those who are developing and/or evaluating software for purchase to carefully consider its educational compatibility, instructional design adequacy, and technical adequacy. Specific factors are examined as they relate to the development and/or evaluation of educational microcomputer software for handicapped learners. (Author)

Many of the factors that go into evaluating computer courseware are the same ones educators have been applying to all instructional materials long before computers entered the classroom. Discussed are some effective ways for locating computer courseware and instruction and computer related evaluation factors. (RM)

Explores primary steps in finding, selecting, and evaluating software for instructional applications. Cites directories of commercial vendors; periodicals that provide software announcements and reviews; and guides to assist in courseware selection and evaluation. (DMM)

This guide suggests processes for making informed software selection, describes several prominent software evaluation models, raises key issues in the software selection process, and provides information on a variety of print and organizational resources. The first section, featuring an article by Henry F. Olds, Jr., "Evaluating the…

Contains a check list to aid teachers in evaluating software used in computer-assisted instruction on microcomputers. The evaluation form contains three sections: program description, program evaluation, and overall evaluation. A brief description of a software evaluation program in use at the Granite School District in Utah is included. (JJD)

Discusses the selection and purchase of computer software for use in educational settings. Evaluative criteria such as software reviews, publisher reputation, evidence of field-testing, and publishing company attitude toward previewing and software backup are examined. A chart of the purchasing policies of 29 publishing companies is included. (JJD)

Examines two kinds of microcomputer software designed for school administrators--student/class scheduling and attendance reporting. A product information chart on 16 software programs is included. (JJD)

Focusing on the use of microcomputers as "smart terminals" for accessing time-sharing systems for libraries, this document discusses the communications software needed to allow the microcomputer to appear as a terminal to the remote host. The functions which communications software programs are designed to perform are defined and…

Intended for upper elementary and secondary teachers in all subject areas, this guide provides practical advice on determining the appropriate application of computer technology and on the selection of specific, subject-related computer-based instruction units. Under the heading of hardware and software, topics discussed include communicating with…

Designed to help educators use computers comfortably, effectively, and economically as classroom instructional tools, this document focuses on the use of computers for teaching English, English as a Second Language (ESL), and foreign languages. The educational implications of introducing computers into language instruction are discussed with…

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…

Schools with successful computer programs often got them as the result of a determined teacher's efforts. Computer experts explain how teachers can: (1) gain access to a computer; (2) read up on the subject; (3) win financial support; and (4) learn to evaluate software. A guide to summer study programs at colleges and other organizations is…