A review of the Writer Rabbit software program details its multiple classroom uses, focusing on language arts activities such as practicing identification and classification of sentence parts, practicing spelling, and inventing stories. (CB)

Outlines a set of criteria for use by teachers in selecting and evaluating educational software. (FL)

Reviews two vocabulary improvement programs that have recently been introduced. (FL)

Discusses the rich potential of Logo (a computer programing system for children) and particularly LogoWriter (its word processor) as learning tools in the language arts. Cautions against their use as rote exercises. (SR)

Discusses computers and related technologies as a significant means for acquiring language arts skills. Samples a wide array of uses for educational computing in English and language arts classes. (SR)

Current approaches in developing and applying computer assisted instruction in language arts are described in this paper, which presents diverse positions along a continuum of perspectives and draws contrasts between a reductionist or subskill approach and a whole language emphasis. The paper discusses three predominant computer applications in…

A review was conducted of 16 research studies evaluating the effectiveness of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in teaching reading and language arts in the elementary school. The studies were of what K. A. Hall has termed "interactive instruction," which includes drill and practice as well as tutoring. Of the studies reviewed, 13 used at least…

Virtually every aspect of modern life has been changed and shaped by the computer's tiny, ubiquitous silicon chips. It is not surprising that computers have had a profound effect on the way students learn in the modern classroom. This topical bibliography and commentary focuses on how computers can be used to enhance the teaching of language arts.…

Recommends software to help teachers plan curriculum in the areas of comprehensive language arts ("Cornerstone"); writing and information ("Keroppi Day Hopper"); creative writing and imagination ("Imagination Express"); reading ("Jo-Jo's Reading Circus"); math ("Careers in Math: From Architects to Astronauts") and nature ("Eyewitness"). Provides…

Addressing the issue of what role computers should have in the language arts classroom, this paper argues that computers and language are intimately connected and that previous discussions of the issue have failed to consider this connection. Following a brief introduction focusing on the functions of the computer, the paper discusses four aspects…

Practical issues that should be considered in placing a classroom computer for use with elementary students include where to locate computer equipment in relation to electrical sockets, windows, and chalkboards; the program sound; who will be able to see the screen; and classroom traffic patterns. Decisions must be made regarding the size of…

Reviews research involving the LOGO computer programming language and its effect on children's achievement in mathematics, language arts, and problem solving, as well as social-emotional development. Identifies some of the unique characteristics of LOGO that may contribute to student learning. (MDM)

This two reviews of the literature on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) are intended to provide a general outline of the major issues involved in the use of computers in education. The 1986 review focuses on definitions, computer usage, achievement gains, staff development, and trends, while the 1986-87 update focuses in particular on the…

Information on current trends and issues in English instruction, compiled by directors of the following National Council of Teachers of English groups, is presented in this report: Commission on Composition (Charles Schuster); Commission on the English Curriculum (Eileen Lundy); Commission on the English Language (James C. Stalker); Commission on…

Twenty-five outstanding new computer software programs for drill and practice, simulation, and tutoring are reviewed. Programs deal with classroom management and with the teaching of language arts, computer literacy, social studies, science and logic, and mathematics. (PP)