Reviews criticisms of the use of drill and practice programs in educational computing and describes potentials for its use in instruction. Topics discussed include guidelines for developing computer-based drill and practice; scripted training courseware; item format design; item bank design; and a performance-responsive algorithm for item…

Identifies human factor issues involved in the student-computer interface in computer assisted instruction and makes specific recommendations for screen design. Factors considered include simplicity, spaciousness, relevance, standardization, changing display screen contents, color coding, shape and size coding, and brightness coding. (Author/LRW)

Discusses guidelines for the development of microcomputer-based courseware from the perspective of the teachers. Reserarch from Northern Ireland Schools is presented that highlights software design, courseware development, and teacher education; and seven factors that contribute to teachers' perceptions of good software are described. (21…

Discusses two factors to consider in relation to the use of color and the design of computerized instructional materials: the purpose of using color in instruction and how the microcomputer, with its limitations, affects color use. Principles for the use of color are suggested. (Author/MBR)

Considers the design and production of a computer assisted learning (CAL) or computer managed learning (CML) package from the point of view of a programer assisting the teacher who is willing to use it. The stages of production are illustrated by reference to two case studies. (Author/CMV)

Discussion of the use of computers in elementary schools highlights a study of four districts in Canada. Topics discussed include the use of word processing; the use of LOGO for tutoring purposes; the role of the teacher; and guidelines for integrating computer-assisted learning (CAL) into the elementary school curriculum. (16 references) (LRW)

The problems of teaching process design to an entire class of senior undergraduate students using industrial computer-aided design tools are described, and some solutions are offered. (Author)

At present, the design of computer-supported group-based learning (CSGBL) is often based on subjective decisions regarding tasks, pedagogy and technology, or concepts such as "cooperative learning" and "collaborative learning." Critical review reveals these concepts as insufficiently substantial to serve as a basis for CSGBL design. Furthermore,…

Discusses results of a survey of Virginia's public high schools that was conducted to determine the progress that had been made in integrating computers into the classroom based on the 1984 guidelines released by the Virginia Department of Education. Difficulties with hardware and software, teacher characteristics, and teacher training are…

This study compared Canadian elementary teachers' perceptions of computer-assisted instructional (CAI) software with findings in the literature. Topics discussed include computer-managed instruction (CMI); computers used for drill and practice and for tutorials; effectiveness of CAI; student attitudes; students' attention span; CAI as motivator;…