Lists a short Applesoft program which uses Hi-Res graphics to help students aged eight and up learn the points of a compass. Program features include help on incorrect responses and display of the percentages of correct responses at the end of a session. (JN)

Presents a computer program which predicts the weather based on student input of such weather data as wind direction and barometric pressure. Also provides procedures for several hands-on, weather-related activities. (JN)

Reviewed are four computer software packages including "Project Classify: Mammals,""Living Science Textbook--The Frog,""Life Science Help Series," and "Talking Dinosaurs." Discussed are availability, features, strengths, and weaknesses. (CW)

Provides a form for evaluating software and software design. The form, which emphasizes instructional qualities, considers science processes, hardware requirements, program mechanics, student reaction, and other areas. Guidelines for using the form are included. (DH)

Describes computer software for use with various age groups. Topics include activities involving temperature, simulations, earth science, the circulatory system, human body, reading in science, and ecology. Provides information on equipment needed, availability, package contents, and price. Comments of reviews are presented by classroom teachers.…

The premise behind this document is that a generation gap is opening between 8-year-olds and 16-year-olds in terms of technological respect, ease of hardware usage, and understanding of process tools. Therefore, this publication seeks to develop awareness and skills with data bases, computer graphics, programming, spreadsheets, simulations,…

The preformatted programs of authoring systems are much easier for teacher use in writing computer assisted instruction for the classroom. Advantages, disadvantages, applications, prices, and publishers are provided for six systems (Blocks, CAIware, Eureka, Mentor Master, PILOT, and ZES). (DH)

Reviews software packages used in microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) experiments. They include programs for a precision timer, frequency meter, heat and light experiments, sound experiments, spectrum analysis, biofeedback analysis, and others. Reviews include a brief description, source, current cost, and equipment requirements. (JN)

Described is the use of computer software to teach elementary scientific processes to sixth graders. Discussed are materials, manuals, procedures and evaluation. The results of a field trial are described. (CW)

Reviewed are two computer software programs for Apple II computers on weather for upper elementary and middle school grades. "Weather" introduces the major factors (temperature, humidity, wind, and air pressure) affecting weather. "How Weather Works" uses simulation and auto-tutorial formats on sun, wind, fronts, clouds, and…

This digest identifies selected sources of materials for science education. Included are: the Educational Resources Information Center; the American Association for the Advancement of Science; the National Science Resources Center; the National Science Teachers Association; and publications produced by the California State Department of Education.…

Reviewed are computer software packages: "Where in Time Is Carmen Sandiego,""The Bio Sci Videodisc," and "Bio Sci Stacks." Included are hardware requirements, costs, emphasis, grade level, and availability. Functions of the packages are discussed including strengths and weaknesses and teaching suggestions. (CW)

Discusses the implementation of a software system that allows teachers to take advantage of large banks of questions in subject areas. Explains that this plan is the result of a 1981 court mandate to standardize learning outcomes. Follows the development of the system and choosing of the software. (MVL)

Some scientists and science educators believe that the most effective strategy for raising science literacy among future workers and voters is to focus on the youngest members of the public. The reviews in this publication were undertaken to increase public understanding and appreciation of the importance and promise of the methods of science in…

An overview of the basics of computers is presented. Definitions and discussions of processing, programs, memory, DOS, anatomy and design, central processing unit (CPU), disk drives, floppy disks, and peripherals are included. This article was designed to help teachers to understand basic computer terminology. (CW)