Discusses producing effective instructional software using a balance of course content and technological capabilities. Describes six phases of an instructional development model: discovery, design, development, coding, documentation, and delivery. Notes that good instructional design should have learner/computer interaction, sequencing of…

Discusses 12 questions that teachers and administrators should ask when evaluating educational software. Considers points such as the consistency with the curriculum, the appropriateness of media and activities, the opportunity for practice and review, the allowance for social interaction, and the accessibility to students. (SR)

Policies and practices which result in differential computer learning opportunities are discussed. Resources designed to remedy gender imbalance in computer learning are given. A list of areas where research is needed is offered. (MT)

The author discusses advantages and disadvantages of computer-based training. She covers the search for high quality courseware, computers' effects on cognitive processes, the difference between classroom and computer-based training, using simulations, control of the learning experience, and the value of repetition. (CH)

This conference collection presents 40 complete papers and abstracts of 33 project reports and 19 poster sessions, representing discussions of a variety of issues in the applications of computers to learning in business, industry, education, government, and the military services. A presentation on the conference topic "Courseware…

The 53 papers in these proceedings focus on the use of computer-based learning. Individual papers are organized by special interest group and presented under 12 headings: (1) Computer-Based Training (11 entries); (2) Elementary, Secondary, Junior College (1 entry); (3) Educators of the Handicapped (3 entries); (4) Health Education (6 entries); (5)…

The author discusses current uses of computers in adult basic skills instruction. Compares three primary systems available for purchase in adult literacy instruction: (1) Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations (PLATO), (2) Computer Curriculum Corporation (CCC), and (3) Principle of the Alphabet Literacy System (PALS). Presents…

The author discusses the changing definition of computer literacy for teachers and uses of computers in education. Factors that affect computer use (time, money, appropriateness, and quality control) are considered and related technologies are reviewed. The author concludes with a discussion of challenges facing users of computers in education.…

This paper argues that Merrill's instructional transaction theory provides a framework that can decrease learners' problems in using computer simulations by specifying transaction shells rather than frames in designing interactive courseware. The three types of data used in a transaction, i.e., an instructional algorithm, are identified as a…

The author discusses issues that should be considered in choosing appropriate software for a specific instructional use. (CH)

Examines capabilities of the computer as a tool for bibliographic instruction; how librarians can utilize the computers; and the effects of microcomputers on bibliographic instruction librarians. Three approaches to writing computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs (CAI authoring system, special purpose CAI language, general purpose computer…

This report on technology in learning at the University of Alberta (Canada) presents a vision for the year 2005 and outlines the measures and leadership needed to achieve these goals. In the introductory chapter the report examines the university's current telecommunications infrastructure, looks at the need to integrate technology and teaching,…

Two voice-generating software programs, a speech synthesizer, and a touch-sensitive screen that allows young children to bypass the keyboard are described. (MT)

Outlines two elements of the process by which computers are incorporated into the social context of the classroom: (1) teachers' interpretations of the meaning of software, and (2) teachers' and students' views regarding the new learning interactions arising from work with computers. Discusses educational advantages of computer use in the…

The authors discuss considerations for integrating microcomputer software into the classroom at the postsecondary level. They describe a design paradigm that may help avoid the trap of "technology for technology's sake." (CH)