This paper focuses on three distinctive ways in which educational software can support learning dialogues in primary classrooms. After a re-capitulation of published research on Initiation, "Discussion," Response, Feedback (IDRF) exchanges, where the computer is used to stimulate discussion and then direct it through using feedback, we ask if…

Language arts skills and writing projects can be combined with activities that teach the fundamentals of word processing to improve the language arts curriculum. Suggested lessons cover five writing and editing operations common to most word processing software. (DF)

Discussion of the use of programming as a learning activity focuses on software-realized scaffolding. Emile, software that facilitates programming for modeling and simulation in physics, is described, and results of an evaluation of the use of Emile with high school students are reported. (Contains 95 references.) (LRW)

Emphasizing the use of computers to achieve educational objectives, the three essays in this collection utilize the principles of learning, schools of thought in educational psychology, and guidance from a study of the philosophy of education to provide a framework relevant for the use of computers in developing the curriculum. The first essay,…

Reports the results of a study that examined the patterns of interactions of high school student partners engaged in problem-solving activities while working through computer simulation activities in an astronomy lab. Observations, interviews with teachers and students, and a software program evaluation are discussed. (LRW)

Intended to help educators choose the most appropriate word processing products for elementary school writing instruction, this report provides information about 12 word processor software products and 13 writing activity products. These products and the writing activities they use are as follows: (1) Bank Street Writer III (Activity Files,…

Describes findings of the Spoken Language and New Technology (SLANT) research project which studied the talk of primary school children in the United Kingdom who were working in small groups at computers with various kinds of software. Improvements in the quality of talk and collaboration during computer-based activities are suggested. (Contains…

This paper offers historical, present, and futuristic perspectives on the role of interactive technology in the lives of young children. In the early 1980s, debate tended to center on the question, "Are computers good for young children?" At the time, educational software consisted almost exclusively of animated drill and practice…

Discusses trends in educational software and the effects of new developments on publishers and on the computer industry. Marketing prospects for software are examined, and recent advances are highlighted, including integrated learning systems, skill-based software, software tied to textbooks, networking, and freeware. (LRW)

Describes the Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Program, which replaces drill and practice with thinking skills activities for grades three through six. The HOTS curriculum, which is built around commercially available software, is reviewed; special teaching techniques that emphasize teacher-student dialog are presented; and benefits for at-risk…

Describes how to create hypermedia-based computer-assisted instruction for teachers developing multimedia activities. Cognitively based instructional design is discussed; cognitive objectives are considered; and tables provide examples of commercial and noncommercial multimedia programs as well as possible feedback and evaluation strategies. (10…

Offers suggestions for teaching information skills to kindergarten through second-grade students. Highlights include book titles to use as discussion lead-ins; library group activities; the use of technology, including computer software and electronic mail; and problem-solving skills. (LRW)

Describes different kinds of student correspondence over the writing center network at a state university. Argues that the interaction between student and text via machine promotes good writing and improved motivation, even when the subject matter is as extracurricular as dating. Includes messages from student to student, student to teacher, and…

Discusses the role of computers, multimedia, and network technology in improving education, in and outside school, by increasing time spent on learning activities. Highlights include government's role in improving educational software; technological advancements; a history of schooling; barriers to change; and emerging information, education, and…

Discussion of performance-based assessment in elementary and secondary schools in Kentucky focuses on the use of hypermedia as an effective alternative for assessing student learning. Curriculum activities are described for science, language arts, foreign language, mathematics, social studies, and physical education. (Contains seven references.)…