Describes various instructional materials designed to teach computer programing. These materials (primarily for the Apple II microcomputer) include books, teaching packages, videotapes, audiocassette tapes, and computer media (including programs loaded from cassettes and disks). Information on classroom packages, writing software, and selecting an…

Contends that computer software development has fallen far behind progress in hardware development. Explains how to evaluate courseware critically. (Author/JM)

Provides necessary characteristics to consider when selecting a CAI system plus a list of costs and capabilities available with the better known CAI systems. Characteristics of major CAI systems are presented in three categories--large/maxi, mini, and micro systems--in chart form. (JEG)

The purchase of computer software must come before the purchase of hardware. Otherwise school people may watch an excellent computer collect dust while they search in vain for software that fills their needs. (Author/JM)

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…

The paper reviews the production activities of the Educational Media Production Project for the Hearing Impaired, a project designed to adapt existing or develop new instructional materials for the hearing impaired. (Author/CL)

Once a school has decided to invest in computers, many other decisions must be made. Considerations should include cost, technical requirements, and standard, upgraded, and "dream" features. Recommendations that can be used as helpful guidelines are presented. (CJ)

Continued from the front cover, this article offers suggestions about selecting and purchasing microcomputers and software for schools. (WD)

It is necessary for those who are developing and/or evaluating software for purchase to carefully consider its educational compatibility, instructional design adequacy, and technical adequacy. Specific factors are examined as they relate to the development and/or evaluation of educational microcomputer software for handicapped learners. (Author)

Many of the factors that go into evaluating computer courseware are the same ones educators have been applying to all instructional materials long before computers entered the classroom. Discussed are some effective ways for locating computer courseware and instruction and computer related evaluation factors. (RM)

As computers become better suited for classroom use--in terms of both design and cost--two limitations stand in the way: (1) lack of educationally sound programs or software (called courseware in education); and (2) lack of a computer language that teachers can easily use to create or adapt courseware for their classrooms. (CJ)

Some ways of producing quality software for language instruction are discussed, including three kinds of systems: authoring or template, freeform, and hybrid. Special features and possible advantages and disadvantages of each type are considered. (Author/MSE)

Educators may have many questions about the values and uses of microcomputers in the school environment. Cost, versatility of software available, and amount of computer literacy desired are issues that may be encountered during computer selection. (DF)

Explores primary steps in finding, selecting, and evaluating software for instructional applications. Cites directories of commercial vendors; periodicals that provide software announcements and reviews; and guides to assist in courseware selection and evaluation. (DMM)

Eight categories of software available for educational use (including tutorial, games, administrative utilities, and simulation) are described and the application of a microcomputer for hearing impaired secondary students at the Iowa School for the Deaf is detailed. Software selection criteria are considered. (CL)