After presenting a brief history of computer-assisted instruction (CAI), this paper provides an overview of the current uses of computer technology in instruction at U.S. community colleges. This profile focuses on the ways in which the technology has been spread throughout the curriculum, the characteristics of computer laboratories, and the…

This paper lists the commands for three programs in Logo: Peppy and the Maze, Caterpillars and Butterflies, and the Robot Arm. (EW)

This paper presents the results of a project in robotics education that included: (1) designing a mobile robot--the Personal Instructional Robot-1 (PIR-1); (2) providing a guide to the purchase and assembly of necessary parts; (3) providing a way to interface the robot with common classroom microcomputers; and (4) providing a language by which the…

Examines the information communication process and proposes a fuzzy commonality model for improving communication systems. Topics discussed include components of an electronic information programing and processing system and the flow of the formation and transfer of information, including DOS (disk operating system) commands, computer programing…

This paper describes SEF.ASSISTANT, a special software shell for authoring languages to be used in the development of courseware serving computer based education (CBE). The capabilities of SEF.ASSISTANT are identified: (1) it will generate programs written in the IBM SEF.PC authoring language; (2) it is compatible with external standard software…

This paper examines the structure of the Applesoft BASIC programming language and the Macintosh authoring language, HyperCard, and scrutinizes the language structures as the building blocks for moving along a chain of cognitive outcomes that culminates in the acquisition of problem solving skills which allow the programmer to learn new formal…

Discusses: how artificial intelligence (AI) can advance education; if the future of software lies in AI; the roots of intelligent computer-assisted instruction; protocol analysis; reactive environments; LOGO programming language; student modeling and coaching; and knowledge-based instructional programs. Numerous examples of AI programs are cited.…

Following a brief description of types of computer assisted instruction (tutorial, drill and practice, and simulation/games), this document provides the following BASIC programming routines: variable typing, range error maskings, default entries, having user check input, allowing users to change input, response checker for numbers, response…

Designed to encourage the use of a defined methodology and careful planning in creating computer-assisted instructional programs, this paper describes the instructional design process, compares computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and programmed instruction (PI), and discusses pragmatic concerns in computer programming. Topics addressed include:…

Discussion of methods that can be used to teach beginner courses in computer literacy focuses on students aged 10-12. The value of using a programing language versus using a generic software package is highlighted; Logo and Prolog are reviewed; and the use of databases is discussed. (LRW)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which a sophisticated computer assisted instruction (CAI) system could be implemented on the type of microcomputer system currently found in the schools. A method was devised for comparing CAI languages and was used to rank five common CAI languages. The highest ranked language, NATAL,…

The use of the modern computer has revolutionized the field of educational research. Software packages are currently available that allow almost anyone to analyze data efficiently and rapidly. Yet, caution must temper the widespread acceptance and use of these programs. It is recommended that the researcher not rely solely on the use of…

A learning module on the applications of microcomputers in instruction, which was developed for preservice and inservice teacher education at Queen's University at Kingston, was implemented within an existing introductory educational media course. An instructional development model (Dick and Carey, 1978) was used to identify instructional goals;…

Prepared for a 1984 Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) conference, this report discusses the potential of the new information technologies for enhancing learning in school, vocational, and general education, and presents eight groups of case studies taken from member countries which illustrate what is currently being done…

This paper focuses on the applications which best suit the microcomputer in an educational setting with emphasis on adapting effective pedagogical practice to the computer's programability and delivery capabilities. Discovery learning and "being told" are identified as two types of computer assisted instruction (CAI) and sample uses of…