Discussion of the use of computers in math instruction highlights two possibilities suggested in response to an earlier journal column: (1) a program written in BASIC for producing spirolaterals, and (2) the use of LOGO list processing to solve matrix problems for exploring geometric transformations. (LRW)

Describes a project in which middle school teachers turned over keyboarding instruction to a computer assisted instruction (CAI) program which enabled them to focus their efforts during the CAI on teaching higher-level thinking skills. The thinking skills developed include student analysis of learning, goal setting, self-motivation, and peer…

Describes how to teach students to plan and write reports using software designed to facilitate information organization. Creating outlines and concept maps is discussed, examples are provided that use "Inspiration" software, and a list of software titles for outliners and concept mappers is provided. (Contains two references.) (LRW)

Describes a study that examined the effects of various computer reinforcement responses, including graphics and/or sound, on students' attentiveness to the program. Implications for educational software design are discussed. (CLB)

Presents two lessons focusing on (1) spreadsheet design and (2) editing and printing spreadsheets. Materials provided include a list of functions for which students need to learn the commands, suggestions for presenting the lesson, three spreadsheet story problems, student exercises in editing, and two reference sheets for AppleWorks. (LRW)

Describes a short computer program written in Logo programing language designed to provide students with new experiences in the study of vectors as they apply to classical physics. Suggestions for introductions, preparation, follow-up activities, and program examples are included. (EJS)

Many of the characteristics that make the Windows 3.1 software popular in other settings are useful for instruction. Features and accessories that can enhance teacher productivity include task switching, object linking and embedding, and object packaging. Users can take advantage of Windows-compatible shareware (an example suitable for chemistry…

Discussion of the use of databases to improve students' thinking skills focuses on a database developed for teaching world geography to middle school and high school students. Research on developing information processing skills is discussed, a sample unit in the world geography project is presented, and results of field testing are described.…

Describes the use of hypertext to enhance the study process by linking related information together. Types of links used in hypertext documents are explained, exploratory hypertext systems are discussed, principles of effective studying are reviewed, and three specific hypertext systems are described as examples of how to enhance student learning.…

Reviews a classroom experience which used the computer simulation "Decisions, Decisions: Immigration" in a secondary school social studies class. Highlights include descriptions of the decision making process, rank ordering of priorities, political and social issues relating to immigration, and benefits of teaching the simulation. (LRW)

This discussion of the design of data files for databases to be created by secondary school students uses AppleWorks software as an example. Steps needed to create and use a database are explained, the benefits of group activity are described, and other possible projects are listed. (LRW)

Describes computer program designed to enable students to analyze process of political revolution by generating graphs for comparisons of such factors as violence, economic instability, and political instability. Student activities, abilities, and reactions, and teacher involvement are noted. Sources concerning revolution, the French Revolution,…

Describes insights and attitudes toward computer-based learning which developed during design of "Computer Power," an introductory programming curriculum for junior high, high school, and junior college students. Learning and thinking, computer power meta-goals, and computer power subject matter goals are highlighted. (EJS)

Discusses problem solving in mathematics instruction and examines the role of students, teachers, and computers in the problem solving process. Seven sample problems that require high school mathematics and some knowledge of a programing language are offered for use in exploring the problem solving process. (LRW)

Description of the field of robotics and its possible use in high school computational geometry classes emphasizes motion planning exercises and computer graphics displays. Eleven geometrical problems based on robotics are presented along with the correct solutions and explanations. (LRW)