Presents detailed guidelines based on the literature for screen layout and design of online catalogs, and discusses the potential advantages in terms of number of transactions per hour and user satisfaction. Further research questions are suggested and an extensive bibliography is provided. (CLB)

Describes differences between authoring systems and authoring languages for teachers interested in creating their own educational software, discusses selection criteria and features to consider before choosing a package, recommends specific authoring systems and Pilot language programs, and provides a chart of currently available packages. (MBR)

Routines developed for an ongoing course in research methods and statistics provides examples of the custom instructional applications that can be created using extended BASIC and a light pen, including title and transition displays, progressive disclosure, animation, overlays, and simulations. Strengths of this technique are reviewed. (MBR)

Discussion of several applications of microcomputer programing in developing economics tutorials on videocassettes includes hardware requirements and videocassette preparation. A sample oligopoly program is included. Additional potential applications noted include using the microcomputer as an electronic blackboard and audio synchronized…

Discusses learner/computer interaction, learner control, sequencing of instructional events, and graphic screen design as effective principles for the design of instructional software, including tutorials. (MBR)

Describes the graphics tablet, a microcomputer peripheral device used to develop graphics, together with its uses and specific classroom applications. Six currently available graphics tablets are discussed, and ten points to consider before purchasing one are provided. (MBR)

Designed to assist those teachers without a technical background, CAI TOOLKIT was developed to help with computer-assisted language instruction programs. By giving commands in English, the system, consisting of six tools, has been greatly simplified for learning. In addition, the graphic capabilities of the system have been found to work well with…

Due to easy accessibility to the Internet and prevalence of programs for designing World Wide Web sites, a special education teacher may now create a Web site with little cost or trouble. Special education teachers may want to consider creating a Web site to inform parents and caregivers about classroom activities, invite participation in special…

Steps in preparing effective overhead projector transparencies for college instruction are outlined, using the PowerPoint program for Windows. They include thinking analogically in translating from concept to visual form; using the features of the presentation program to create a polished product; and assuring readability (visibility, typeface…

Eight authors discuss five questions related to user searching of online catalogs: What user needs can be met by online assistance? Should assistance be tailored to particular groups? Should there be more than one level of assistance? Do users learn through computer-assisted instruction? and Will increased system friendliness eliminate the need…

Discusses the development in the late 1970s of the new Emily Carr College (Vancouver) curriculum which was based on foundation courses. Describes the transformation of four of those courses into telecourses for the Distance Learning Education program and the use of computers to teach drawing. Includes photographs of 52 art works and three…

Discusses techniques for creating computer slide shows. Topics include memory; format; color use; HyperCard and CD-ROM; font styles and sizes; graphs and graphics; the slide show option; special effects; and tips for effective presentation. (Author/AEF)

Describes easy-to-use, easy-to-learn dedicated graphics packages for developing slide presentations shown directly from computers. A general description of the features of five packages and suggestions for software selection are provided. A sidebar provides graphics tips, such as the use of color, typefaces, and formatting, for developing…

Presents tips for creating a successful schoolwide newsletter by using desktop publishing software applications. Provides examples of information to include in a library media center newsletter. Discusses readers' needs, layout and format, graphics, news leads and headlines, and visual images, as well as various newswriting and editing techniques.…

This mini-course and article are presentations from a workshop on computer-aided drafting. The purpose of the mini-course is to assist drafting instructors in updating their occupational knowledge to include computer-aided drafting (CAD). Topics covered in the course include general computer information, the computer in drafting, CAD terminology,…