Suggests what to look for when evaluating software and its support literature; includes a software evaluation checklist. (Available from: Modern Learning Publishers, Inc., 6517 Liggett, Oakland, CA 94611, $14.) (AEA)

Briefly discusses the important criteria by which microcomputer programs intended for instructional use should be evaluated, presents a series of guidelines for submitting reviews of computer programs developed for instructional purposes (courseware), and provides a copy of the Curriculum Review Courseware Evaluation Form. (JL)

There is an abundance of educational software available, the quality of which ranges from invaluable to a waste of money. The following guidelines should make shopping for software as painless as possible: (1) know your objectives; (2) be sure the software fits your equipment; (3) consider dealer support; (4) consider brand names first; (5) check…

Describes a program written in BASIC, called BIGNUM, that was designed to aid in handling big numbers. The program adds, subtracts, multiplies, divides, and raises to a power integers of up to 1024 decimal digits and is thought to be usable on many types of machines. (MP)

This teacher's guide contains computer programs, written in BASIC, for use in Iowa secondary school industrial arts programs. The programs were developed in two 2-week workshops by industrial arts teachers who had little or no previous experience with computers; the programs have been classroom tested and refined for publication. The programs are…

A modified set of criteria based on sociology is suggested as a framework for evaluating the social implications of educational software. Six analytic categories are discussed: language usage, knowledge, ideology, profit, culture, and ethics. Procedures for applying the critical framework are outlined, and 32 references are listed. (MBR)

The history and current nature of CONDUIT, an organization that reviews, tests packages and distributes computer-based materials, is presented. Although many of the units available are designed for collegiate instruction, some can be used at the high school level, particularly for enrichment studies for juniors and seniors. (MP)

Briefly discusses some of the factors to be considered in selecting instructional software for microcomputers and presents an annotated list of instructional computer programs recommended by the authors for first purchase in developing software collections. A list of distributors is attached. (JL)

Provides a checklist of stylistic elements to consider when writing simulation programs for use in computer assisted instruction. Subtopics include setting simulation parameters, questioning the user, displaying the results, and overall simulation organization. (JJD)

This software review focuses on five concept-related packages of programs in the Apple version and are viewed as well-written in terms of both educational sophistication and programing expertise. (MP)

This guide suggests processes for making informed software selection, describes several prominent software evaluation models, raises key issues in the software selection process, and provides information on a variety of print and organizational resources. The first section, featuring an article by Henry F. Olds, Jr., "Evaluating the…

Describes how a business education curriculum can be adapted to take advantage of modern technology and office equipment. Computer packages for five different areas are described and practical suggestions are given for classroom activities in accounting, office practice, secretarial practice, economics, business law, and sales. (EAO)

This report describes a collection of procedures, with illustrative examples, for selecting and portraying microcomputer courseware in a manner that enables others to make their own judgments of courseware quality. Following a discussion of perspective and a report outline, section 3 deals with assumptions underlying the search to identify…

Designed to assist teachers in identifying quality software, this guide provides software evaluation forms and associated evaluation criteria to aid in completing the forms. The two-part instrument is used in the evaluation process conducted by Alberta Education, which involves the Program Development Division and the Computer Technology Project's…

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…