Explains how the different levels of instructional videodisc programs serve different teaching situations. Characteristics of the software and the hardware system required for its use are described; the role of the teacher is discussed; and levels of interactivity between the student and the computer are described. (LRW)

Discusses in-service teacher training for computer-related topics and suggests factors that contribute to effective in-service training, including asking teachers to state their needs; collaboration between teachers and the principal to set goals and plan the program; teacher participation; follow-up support; and an active role by administrators.…

Describes a survey of members of the Educational Software Evaluation Consortium that resulted in a ranked list of 22 criteria used in preparing their annual software preview guide. Noting that content and pedagogical concerns received the highest rankings, the report offers five recommendations for future software development, evaluation, and…

This account of personal experiences with computers in the classroom and the development of educational software describes trends in software design and development, the involvement of publishers in software development, and the role of the teacher. Emphasis is on the need to create software that the teacher can use as a tool in teaching. (LRW)

Describes various configurations of computer equipment that can be used in public schools. Labs with multiple computers, one computer in a classroom, and minilabs (with three or four computers on a mobile cart) are compared for cost effectiveness, cooperative learning possibilities, instructional effectiveness, usage, security, and flexibility.…

Describes integrated teaching systems (ITS), formerly called integrated learning systems, and discusses guidelines to be considered when purchasing an ITS. Topics discussed include instructional theories, appropriate grade levels and curriculum areas, management and reporting systems, and cost considerations. A list of vendors offering ITS and…

Describes a project developed for fifth graders that was designed to teach them about databases through collecting information for a community census. Activities supported by the census project are listed, including both noncomputer activities and computer activities; and an effective sequence of instruction with databases is discussed. (LRW)

Discusses a project developed using HyperCard to teach geography and history. Describes research of weather patterns and corresponding historical accounts; HyperCard's capabilities for producing animated maps to display information; and the effectiveness of HyperCard as a teaching tool, including its flexible use as a lecture display tool or in a…

This third in a series of articles on work conducted at the Texas Center for Educational Technology and the University of North Texas focuses on research designs for teachers to determine the impact of technology in the classroom. Highlights include research and the scientific method; qualitative versus quantitative research; and statistical…

Discussion of ways to effectively use computers in classrooms focuses on a national survey, the CompEd survey of the IEA (International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement), that examined computer use in grades 3-12. Highlights include teacher attitudes, teacher roles, and the need for improved software and more powerful…

Discusses evaluation criteria for selecting courseware that teaches basic concepts appropriate for preschool and early elementary students. Reviews of the software manual, the courseware itself, and reviews by students are suggested. Other areas of concern that are addressed include instructional quality, production quality, flexibility, and cost.…

Describes the Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Program, which replaces drill and practice with thinking skills activities for grades three through six. The HOTS curriculum, which is built around commercially available software, is reviewed; special teaching techniques that emphasize teacher-student dialog are presented; and benefits for at-risk…

Reviews current research regarding integrated learning systems (ILS) in elementary and secondary education. Topics discussed include instructional effectiveness; implementation strategies, including adequate time, teacher involvement, curriculum integration, and staff development; classroom social processes; and implications for teachers. (LRW)

Describes five studies which investigate the effectiveness of computer use: (1) cost effectiveness in elementary school mathematics; (2) evaluation of computer use in a college chemistry course; (3) evaluating science software; (4) computer-videotape instruction in junior-secondary level mathematics; and (5) comparing microcomputers and flash card…