The videodisc, audiodisc, overlapping instruction, mapping, adaptive testing strategies, intricate instructional branching, and complex media selection models are common expectations for quality courseware today. A two team development structure, consisting of an instructional development team and a test development team, is proposed. This paper…

This paper discusses the types of computer software that are most effective in a classroom. Detailed descriptions are given of: (1) drill and practice programs; (2) tutorials; (3) simulations; and (4) games and problem-solving software. The effectiveness of each is discussed as well as the characteristics of a good program of its genre. An example…

This package from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) describes projects undertaken by TVA's Skills Development Program, an effort to help national, state, and local officials improve education. The program includes several futuristic instructional labs that TVA helped to design and install in Morgan County, Tennessee. Instructional labs have…

This article aims to help parents of gifted children plan children's experiences using home computers, select quality software, and decide when to expose children to more advanced computer training. Potential problems such as student feelings of isolation are discussed, as well as drawbacks of software emphasizing drill repetition over concept…

A project to convert part of a Chinese language course ("Standard Chinese: A Modular Approach") to the PLATO computerized teaching system is reported. The project involved: (1) transcribing all the first sequence audiotapes for the first six instructional modules (these tapes present the material of each lesson); (2) rewriting the lesson…

Identifies problems with much of the early drill and practice software, and describes the development of a software package designed to assist with mastery learning in chemistry. The discussion covers features of the different programs and their effect on student performance. (CLB)

Discusses the potential and the limitations of intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) in the teaching of writing. Outlines the goals and significance of research, and analyzes the pedagogical assumptions underlying such research. Describes the architecture of these systems and illustrates instructional design issues by describing the ITS program,…

Almost all research and development work in China in computer-assisted language instruction is done on micro- and minicomputers because they are more feasible financially. Describes some English as a foreign language and Chinese language courseware and courseware needs. (Author/LMO)

Describes spatial and sequential learning strategies and how they affect student performance and progress in second-language learning. Briefly describes a test identifying preferred style. Suggests how instructors can then individualize instruction. Outlines the way VOCAL, a multilingual authoring system, can be used in a language laboratory for…

This project explored the potential of applying the technologies of computer-assisted instruction and expert systems to implementation of cognitive and metacognitive strategy instruction programs. A prototype program consisting of three computer-assisted instruction modules was developed to teach procedures required for the use of skimming,…

Assesses the current state of computer-assisted instruction in schools. Reviews educational issues of teacher productivity, teacher preparation, software selection, and curriculum integration. Examines legislative actions directed at greater computer use in classrooms. (JM)

The proceedings of the workshop on the interface between humans and machines in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) include the texts of four papers, descriptions of the software demonstrated, an information exchange section, a report of the plenary session, a comment on the workshop, a list of participants, a review of current research in…

Describes the processes involved in leading students from the basics of MaxMix courseware to the final investigation. Discusses a mathematical game, number and graphic tasks included in the package, along with invoking meaningful interaction and integration into classroom mathematics. (RT)

Describes an open-ended computer simulation project that can be used to illustrate the growth of solid crystals in different forms at any level from high school physics to graduate physics. Discusses a simple computer program in BASIC language on an IBM personal computer. Gives examples of simulations. (CW)

Miami-Dade Community College's (MDCC's) implementation and assessment of computer software as a part of Project SYNERGY, a multi-institutional project funded by the International Business Machines (IBM) Corporation designed to seek technological solutions for helping students underprepared in reading, writing and mathematics, is described in this…