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.

Because students have often been conditioned as passive learners and receivers of knowledge, it can be difficult for them to persevere in solving authentic problems. Nevertheless, teachers must persist in preparing students as problem solvers and critical thinkers. In an urban inner-city neighborhood school in the southeast, students embarked on a…

Cloud software enables children to engage with their work across and within subjects, not least in science. Bradford College in the UK and the University of Aveiro in Portugal were funded by an Anglo-Portuguese research programme, "The treaty of Windsor", to look at how new web-based technologies are embedded within pre-service and…

Graphing calculators and data collection technology was integrated in an undergraduate science methods classes for preservice elementary school teachers. The study investigated whether preservice teachers' knowledge and comfort with the use of graphing calculator technology and their perspectives in the use of graphing calculator technology were…

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)

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…

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)