How do we know when an educational organization, process, or courseware tool is "innovative"? How do we define the processes that encourage change or the ways in which faculty "develop" new courseware "innovations"? The terms "innovation", "change", and "development" have been overused in so many contexts that they now seem to have lost their…

Computer softward called "Immigration: Maintaining the Open Door" helps elementary school students better understand what's involved in allowing or stopping immigration. This program is part of a series of software called "Decisions Decisions," which presents situations based on historical or contemporary issues. (CB)

Because finding software that exactly complements curriculum objectives is so difficult, many software designers have developed educational programs with authoring features that allow teachers to change the content but not the format of coursework. Four programs simple enough for students to take creative control of are reviewed. (MT)

Solutions to concern over computer software copyright infringement include seeking a licensing agreement with the software publisher or negotiating with a supplier for discounts on multiple copies of a program. The best sourcebook for guidance is "Software Quality and Copyright: Issues in Computer-Assisted Instruction," by Virginia Helm. (DCS)

Reviews of 142 education software packages are contained in this guide produced by Project SEED. Following listings of software by title, grade level, and subject area, the alphabetical list of evaluations provides information in the following areas for each program: (1) title; (2) producer; (3) copyright data; (4) grade level; (5) subject area;…

Software programs which help students' vocabulary development are described. (CB)

In formulating a practical guide for evaluators of social studies courseware, the fundamental elements of the "Evaluator's Guide to Microcomputer-Based Instructional Packages," (MicroSIFT, 1982) were combined with an abbreviated version of the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) adopted curriculum-specific guidelines. The categories…

Three software programs which encourage children to learn geography and have fun are reviewed. Complementary activities are suggested. (MT)

Software available to physical educators both for general or administrative purposes and for educational purposes is discussed. Appended is a list of software with availability information and a list of vendors. (MT)

Describes an Applesoft computer program which determines the shear and moment diagrams for any combination of four different load configurations on a simply supported beam. Examples of different load configurations and the diagrams produced are included. Also included is the program listing. (JN)

Formulated as questions, these guidelines set forth criteria for use in determining the adequacy of an instructional software product. These questions are presented as they relate to five major areas: (1) the intended purpose of the software; (2) the intended audience; (3) the content of the program; (4) the quality of the instructions; and (5)…

Among tips suggested for teachers adjusting to the presence and use of computers in the classroom are: teach students about the keyboard; allow students to teach you about using the computer; find out and stay knowledgeable about software and students' interests; and share ideas with other teachers. (CB)

The computer is an exciting medium for art, especially for projects involving color and line, motivating even the most reluctant young artist. Input devices are described. The first four lessons are suggested and ways to display the art projects are covered. (MT)

The way in which an elementary school teacher involved her students with computer software to create a calendar for school activities (including students' birthdays) is described. Software helpful for this procedure is briefly reviewed. (CB)

Two voice-generating software programs, a speech synthesizer, and a touch-sensitive screen that allows young children to bypass the keyboard are described. (MT)