This column provides background science information for elementary teachers. Many innovations with computer software begin with analysis of how humans do a task. This article takes a look at how humans recognize spoken words and explains the origins of speech-recognition software.

E-assessments of students profoundly influence their motivation and play a key role in the educational process. Adapting assessment techniques to current technological advancements allows for effective pedagogical practices, learning processes, and student engagement. The "Handbook of Research on E-Assessment in Higher Education"…

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…

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)

Presents several computer-oriented activities dealing with electronic dice, reading menus, rhyming words, and a high-technology version of musical chairs. Although these activities assume a certain level of computer expertise, each one can be easily adapted in any grade. (JN)

Presents a list of favorable reviewed microcomputer software for K-12 student instruction. It is not a buying guide, but an aid in locating programs for review. Software are listed under such headings as computer awareness, advanced mathematics, algebra, arithmetic, problem-solving/logic, biology, astronomy, chemistry, environmental…

Outlines how the National Education Association's Educational Computer Service program for evaluation of educational software is run, and responds to critics of the program. (MD)

Presents and evaluates the National Education Association's for-pay software review program. Also reviews the 98th Congress's legislation relating to school software. (MD)

Describes eight characteristics of good educational software. They are: (1) educational soundness; (2) ease of use; (3) "bullet" proofing (preventing a program from coming to a premature halt); (4) clear instructions; (5) appropriate language; (6) appropriate frame size; (7) motivation; and (8) evaluation. (JN)

Provides brief descriptions of interactive tutorial and simulation programs for reading, writing, and mathematics; and of drill-and-practice courseware packages. (DMM)

Surveys computer use and the changing role of teachers in the development of computer applications by looking at manuscripts published in "Teaching of Psychology" from 1974 to 1988. Notes that although more teachers are developing software, many teachers do not have the time required for such development. (KO)

This guide is intended for use in a course to help students become familiar with computer disk operating systems and the applications of various types of computer software. The first third of the guide contains the following: a profile of the critical skills required for the Canadian work force, a flowchart of the recommended sequence of studies…

Presents some rules of thumb for parents and teachers who are developing software libraries. Includes comments on drill and practice software, programs (simulations and adventure games) that teach thinking/problem-solving skills, and programs that foster creativity. Also includes list of resources for selecting software. (JN)

This training material provides the reader with information on the installation of and instruction in the use of the on-line Novell Netware V2.15 training software, and consists of an Instructor's Guide and Student Handouts. The instructor's guide includes the following sections: system requirements; installation; starting the tutorial; completing…

Describes how a Minnesota high school developed the use of microcomputers throughout every facet of the school during the past decade. (MD)