Reviews the availability and use of educational software in elementary and secondary education. Topics discussed include the slow growth of software purchased by schools, programs that support the curriculum, word processing, tutorials, and trends toward networking and MS-DOS compatible software. (LRW)

Discusses the need for quality computer software for science instruction. Argues that very little software is currently available that uses the computer's capabilities to provide quality science instruction. Describes microcomputer tutoring systems under development at the University of Pittsburgh that are intended to significantly add to the…

The current state of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in kindergarten through grade 12 is discussed. Four formats for CAI--drill, practice, tutorial, and simulation--are defined, and a set of criteria for distinguishing between effective and ineffective CAI are described. Comparisons are made between human and computer tutors. In response to…