Although researchers are only now beginning studies of microcomputer use in classrooms, findings concerning the educational use of mainframe computer terminals indicate educational benefits. The available studies suggest guidelines for classroom microcomputer use. These guidelines include developing administrative procedures for evaluating…

School board computer policies should include letting parents borrow and be trained on the district's computers, having sufficient software available before buying hardware, announcing the kind of computer to be used, and listing for parents the software each course uses and what commercial software is compatible with the district's. (RW)

Computers and humans use similar methods to process information. Advantages of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) include individual instruction, immediate positive reinforcement, high motivation, consistency, and organized instruction. Disadvantages of CAI include inadequate instructional programs, time needed to develop software,…

Intended for administrators or teachers with no prior knowledge of microcomputer applications in education, this document answers frequently asked questions about microcomputers focusing specifically on the use of microcomputers for computer assisted instruction (CAI), drill and practice, and instructional games. Background information covers…

A list of computer competencies developed by Houston Independent School District's Department of Technology is provided as a framework for training teachers in instructional applications of computers. (MJL)

Designed for anyone facing decisions about where, how, and even whether they will use microcomputers for instruction, management, or administration, this manual emphasizes that computer technology, particularly microcomputer technology, is neither all good or all bad for schools. It was developed to discuss the pros and cons of computer technology…

In four chapters, this research report on computers in education examines computer hardware (the machinery) and software (or courseware, programmed instructions that tell the hardware what to do), classroom uses of computers, ways of bringing computers into the schools, and four districts that have successfully introduced computers into their…

Arranged in six sections, this booklet provides teachers and administrators with basic information and resources on the educational uses of the microcomputer. Section 1 uses a question and answer format to address concerns teachers frequently have about the effects of computer education on their teaching. Questions covered include effects on…

This book is directed to any educator who is interested in the use of the computer to improve classroom instruction. It is a book about the materials, human factors, and decision-making procedures that make up the instructional application of computers. This document's single goal is to promote educators' thoughtful selection and use of both…

Schools with successful computer programs often got them as the result of a determined teacher's efforts. Computer experts explain how teachers can: (1) gain access to a computer; (2) read up on the subject; (3) win financial support; and (4) learn to evaluate software. A guide to summer study programs at colleges and other organizations is…

This bulletin provides a discussion of the impact of microcomputer technology and functions as a guide for administrators. It examines issues administrators must address if they are to take an active role in implementing computer programs in their schools. Chapter 2 examines hardware evaluation and selection, giving recommendations on types of…

Checklists cover six important dimensions of computer use in social studies: (1) what a computer can do to achieve educational goals, (2) planning for implementation, (3) major modes of computer uses in education, (4) important qualities, (5) technical features of good educational computer programs, and (6) checking out software. (RM)

To implement a computer software system successfully, a college development officer must learn all about it, control its development rather than let computer center staff take control, define the system needs and elements, study software contracts carefully before signing, reorganize the office to accommodate computing needs, and make necessary…

This book promotes use of the microcomputer in schools as a school-wide resource, with applications across the entire curriculum, rather than as the specialized tool of only one subject area. It suggests ideal within-school organization and management so as to facilitate this role and considers the immediate and long-term implications of the…

Presents procedures for a needs assessment where the instructional situation is identified and instructionally oriented needs are expressed through an instructional requirements matrix, as well as a description of the capabilities of microcomputers and their relationship to various instructional activities. A survey of microcomputers and their…