Q methodology, a theory-based research technique begun by William Stephenson, permits a scientific approach to the study of subjective ideas, and proves useful in studying intrapersonal communication processes in a variety of contexts. The Q-sort, which incorporates Q methodology into a measure, allows respondents to sort statements (pictures or…

This essay considers several areas of research in computer technology for education in North America and the implications of these areas of focus for the implementation of educational computer technologies in developing nations. The five areas of focus are: (1) curriculum integration, or the general rationale for using computer technology in…

An outgrowth of a conference of developmental faculty and administrators interested in exploring computer-based education, this monograph presents 26 papers devoted to microcomputer applications in college basic skills programs. Included are 5 papers on general topics, 13 on language teaching, 7 on mathematics, and 1 dissent paper. Articles range…

Produced to provide educators and library media personnel with some understanding of and direction in the rapidly expanding field of microcomputers and their applications, this monograph includes several articles dealing specifically with media center applications and others concerned more generally with the microcomputer in educational settings.…

Computer-based Natural Language Processing (NLP) is the key to enabling humans and their computer-based creations to interact with machines using natural languages (English, Japanese, German, etc.) rather than formal computer languages. NLP is a major research area in the fields of artificial intelligence and computational linguistics. Commercial…

A computer program written for the Apple II was designed to teach college students how to map expository information. The program consists of five lessons, the first beginning with a definition and illustration of mapping. In this introductory lesson, students are asked to answer three basic questions when reading expository text: identify the…

Geographers in the United States rely heavily on microcomputers. They employ microcomputers to enhance three general categories of tasks: word processing and other productivity needs, geographic instruction, and discipline-specific applications. Word processing and desktop publishing continue to be the primary uses of microcomputers by…

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the field of scientific inquiry concerned with designing machine systems that can simulate human mental processes. The field draws upon theoretical constructs from a wide variety of disciplines, including mathematics, psychology, linguistics, neurophysiology, computer science, and electronic engineering. Some of the…

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 of the use of specific word processing programs to teach foreigners English language composition discusses advantages and disadvantages of such features as spelling checkers, prompting markers, and formatting programs. Suggestions are presented for enhancing students' writing skills both with and without word processing help. (CB)

This article reviews five modes of computer-assisted software so that teachers will be more aware of them and use computers more in their classrooms. The five modes are the following: (1) drill and practice; (2) tutorial; (3) simulation; (4) demonstration; and (5) instructional games. Teachers should review softwares and choose those that meet…

The article examines recent literature on the promised benefits of microcomputer application in teaching mildly handicapped students, and analyzes the extent to which research has revealed positive results in eight areas of effective instructional practice (e.g., motivation, self-concept, direct instruction, drill and practice, and writing…

Compares the five classic graphic design principles used to construct visual messages--proportion, sequence, emphasis, unity, and balance--with relevant human factors research findings. Compiled by Williges and Williges (1981) these findings focus on the structuring of information for visual displays in interactive environments. (MBR)

Discusses the application and use of a microcomputer-assisted reference statistics procedure which allows for customized programs to be designed and determined by local, unique research objectives, service demands, and the ultimate use of the recorded data. A literature review of the development and use of reference statistics is included. (EM)

Reviews some word processing programs that facilitate the writing task. These programs cover the following areas: 1) spelling; 2) punctuation and style; 3) thesauruses; 4) sexist language; 5) text and author statistics; 6) footnotes; 7) indexes; and 8) bibliography. Also provides an outline of the "Computer Education Assistance Act" of 1985 (S.…