Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) is discussed briefly as it might apply to agricultural education in order to supplement both text and teacher. CAI format is shown in a typical tutorial program used to help students understand basic concepts of work, power, horsepower, and torque. The author points out other instructional uses of CAI, such as…

The presentation describes PILOT (Programmed Inquiry, Learning or Teaching), a special programing language easy for beginners to learn and available for several brands of microcomputers. PILOT is explained to contain substantially fewer commands than most other languages and to be written in an easy to understand manner. Edit commands and their…

This BASIC computer program designed to help music theory students practice harmonic dictation generates examples for students to use in a drill and practice approach in developing aural skills. To facilitate the implementation of effective generative algorithms, the author has used a non-linear analytical technique similar to the chord symbol…

The author reviews the history of the microcomputer and addresses its application needs in special education. Among needs cited are the ability to store and retrieve curriculum resource information and to develop diagnostic testing and automated test construction reporting devices. He also sees the need for software that is neither threatening nor…

Designed to answer basic questions educators have about microcomputer hardware and software and their applications in teaching, this paper describes the revolution in computer technology that has resulted from the development of the microchip processor and provides information on the major computer components; i.e.; input, central processing unit,…

Use of microcomputers in a state residential facility for nonambulatory profoundly mentally retarded persons is discussed. The effects of such a severe handicap on the residents is examined, and potential contributions of a microcomputer in providing precise contingency control, recording response data, and delivering immediate reinforcement…

NATAL-74 is a programing language designed for Canadian computer aided learning (CAL) programs. The language has two fundamental elements: the UNIT provides the interface between the student and the subject matter, and the PROCEDURE element embodies teaching strategy. Desirable features of several programing languages have been adapted to cope…

Using A Programing Language (APL), a "computer glass box" was designed to stimulate students to think about selected concepts as well as to elucidate and reveal understanding. This approach is pedagogically suitable for a wide range of educational levels--from elementary school children to university graduate students. Using APL computer…

Previous users of Coursewriter, an interactive computer-based learning system, experienced difficulty retrieving student progress reports. A program has been written which will permit the person in charge of the course to request student reports, test scores, connect time, and class statistics. Sample program interactions and a copy of the program…

The interactive system for creating graphic displays that is described is presented as one solution to the problem created by the lack of complementary firmware or software to make the graphic capabilities of many current terminals easily accessible to the instructional programmer. The use of this system by the Digital Equipment Corporation's…

The Hearing Handicapped Program in Jefferson County Public Schools, Colorado, uses microcomputer technology for instruction of hearing impaired students with or without additional handicaps. Applications include drill and practice, tutoring, simulation, problem solving, and communication. (CL)

Teachers of hearing impaired students can be helped to write scripts for computer software. Questionnaires help establish the subject area, target population, computer application, and program goal. Then activities are designed, variables are considered, and feedback is detailed. Teacher involvement will allow the greater effectiveness in computer…

MELBORP, a microcomputer software package designed to provide math drill and practice, allows hearing impaired students to practice on their own, compete against others, or compete against the computer. Teachers can specify objectives to be practiced and can identify student progress and scores. (CL)

Computers, if programed to respond to writer-generated content with heuristic strategies, can guide the writer in the prewriting stage. Heuristics are problem solving strategies that can aid the writer in exploring a topic either through a systematic posting of relevant questions or through an unsystematic process of free-association. To date the…

This paper focuses on two major issues in the third stage of the implementation and dissemination process for computer based instruction (CBI)--copyright and documentation. The purpose, special problems, and different approaches or methods of copywriting and documenting CBI materials are discussed. Tables outline the types of information required…