Reviews "Decisions Decisions", a computer-based simulation for grades 5 through 12 which involves the whole class in making policy decisions on historical and current events with the use of only one computer. Topics of the seven separate simulations are: immigration, colonization, revolutionary wars, urbanization, foreign policy, the…

This discussion of the use of microcomputers to simulate complex situations for classroom use describes the advantages of using simulations, including their adaptability to many subject areas and content fields, their power to explain complex concepts, and their ability to provide variations for individual users. As an example, seven objectives…

The expert system computer simulation detailed in this report is designed to investigate patterns of valuing in decision-making about dossiers of performance data used in teacher promotion evaluations. The knowledge base for the simulation consists of 111 questions organized into 117 rules. The questions and linked advice were derived from…

Evaluates MUSICSHAPES, a graphic music construction software program which manipulates sound in terms of pitch, rhythm, timbre, and sequence to help students create complex synthesizer compositions. Intended for ages eight to adult, the program utilizes Apple II computers and additional hardware. Discusses how MUSICSHAPES can be used effectively…

Reviews seven educational computer software packages covering such topics as presidential elections, the American Revolution, the Vietnam War, the construction of historical time lines, and general U.S. history. Also reviews a program designed to help tailor data entry files. Provides ordering information, price, and computer compatibility…

Provides information and reviews of geography computer software classified as drill-and-practice, simulations, and databases. Includes title, publisher, hardware needed, suggested grade level, geographic area covered, content emphasized, and the strengths and weaknesses of each program. (TW)

Examines the instructional potential of videodisc technology and provides an overview of the use of interactive video in the classroom. Includes listings of facts about interactive videos, video hardware descriptions, and information on currently available interactive video tutorials and simulations. (ML)

Discusses the use of Logo tools, spinners, dice, and coins for creating and understanding probability. Gives procedures for devising a spinner board and other necessary functions for performing the activity. Presents ideas for extending the experiment. (RT)

Presents reviews of six computer software programs for teaching science. Provides the publisher, grade level, cost, and descriptions of software, including: (1) "Recycling Logic"; (2) "Introduction to Biochemistry"; (3) "Food for Thought"; (4) "Watts in a Home"; (5) "Geology in Action"; and (6)…

Provides a list of evaluation services currently producing critical reviews of educational software. Includes information about The Apple K-12 Curriculum Software Reference, The Educational Software Preview, The Educational Software Selector, MicroSIFT, and Only The Best: The Discriminating Guide for Preschool-Grade 12. (TW)

Reviews seven computer software programs that can be used in science education programs. Describes courseware which deals with muscles and bones, terminology, classifying animals without backbones, molecular structures, drugs, genetics, and shaping the earth's surface. (TW)