Discusses the importance of accurate graphic presentation and describes graphs available on "LabQuest" computer software. Highlights include graphing conventions; prerequisites for computer graphing; bar graphs; pie graphs; stacked bar graphs; line graphs; x/y graphs; scatter graphs; box plots; stem and leaf graphs; best fit graphs; and…

Relates experiences of an elementary school reading teacher and a group of fifth- and sixth-grade students in exploring the computer programing language Logo. Use of a tree-like figure as an illustration for the concept of recursion is described. Programing commands and graphic illustrations are included. (EJS)

Explains how the different levels of instructional videodisc programs serve different teaching situations. Characteristics of the software and the hardware system required for its use are described; the role of the teacher is discussed; and levels of interactivity between the student and the computer are described. (LRW)

Suggests computer assisted instruction software that doesn't provide all necessary components of a lesson can be useful if the teacher identifies instructional functions (Gagne's Events of Instruction) provided by the program and supplies those that are missing. This framework is applied to analysis of a specific computer program. (MBR)

Describes how HyperCard software can be used to direct students to databases, applications, and explanations in an online environment. The use of HyperCard with other software is discussed; using HyperCard to set up tutorials is explained; and limitations are addressed, including the amount of memory needed and the speed of the hardware. (LRW)

Describes a two-part rating scale for use in systematically evaluating lessons. Both computer and noncomputer lesson components are examined in the context of the nine events of instruction of which well-designed lessons are composed, and the effectiveness of each instructional event is rated. The lesson evaluation form is included. (MBR)

Describes techniques for using computer-assisted instruction to help students of various ages and needs develop job-related skills. Topics addressed include classroom organization, beginning skills, shopping simulations, other simulations, deciphering signs, social skills, writing activities, and followup. (MES)

Describes activities that present concepts and applications of artificial intelligence (AI) for elementary and secondary school students. The use of Logo with elementary students is discussed; appropriate software is described; programing activities using Logo, BASIC, and Prolog are examined; and the field of robotics is discussed. (four…

This account of personal experiences with computers in the classroom and the development of educational software describes trends in software design and development, the involvement of publishers in software development, and the role of the teacher. Emphasis is on the need to create software that the teacher can use as a tool in teaching. (LRW)

Describes mobile computer carts developed at the Lawrence Hall of Science that use IBM PS/2 computers and Personal Science Laboratory probeware. Activities using temperature probes for elementary and secondary school students are described, including greenhouse environments, ice cream/chemical reactions, probe races, motion studies, and…

Describes issues raised at the 1991 annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association (AERA). Highlights include the formation of a new division that would address concerns dealing with research on computer-based educational technologies; new developments in courseware, video technology, and interactive multimedia; learning theories…

Presents a selection model for choosing appropriate software for special education students. The management process is described as well as the instructional process, professional journals and other sources of software reviews are discussed, and the importance of the consistent application of evaluative criteria is emphasized. (LRW)

Explains a social studies lesson for third graders that uses KidPix, a computer software graphics program to help students make maps and map keys. Advantages to using the computer versus hand drawing maps are discussed, and an example of map requirements for the lesson is included. (LRW)

Describes a program that used the concept of cross-age tutoring to introduce computers to kindergarten students with the help of sixth graders. The use of FunWriter and other software is described, the importance of graphics is emphasized, and benefits to both groups of students are discussed. (LRW)

Discussion of new technological resources available for science instruction focuses on the use of the HyperCard software for the Macintosh to design customized materials. Topics addressed include general features of HyperCard, designing HyperCard stacks, graphics, and designing buttons (i.e., links for moving through the stacks). Several sample…