Despite the fact that two of every three students in U.S. schools have reading proficiencies below the level needed to adequately do grade-level work, schools don't make a point of offering either high-quality professional development for kindergarten teachers nor expert tutorial instruction for at-risk kindergartners. This means that most schools…

The Comprehensive Achievement Monitoring (CAM) program revolves around a series of tests regularly administered to students with immediate feedback to students and teachers. (Author/MLF)

A meta-analysis of 51 studies of computer-based instruction shows: a rise in student test scores; student attitudes toward the subject that are slightly more favorable; student attitudes toward computers that are strikingly more positive; and savings from 39 percent to 88 percent in student learning time. (MLF)

Critiques Freyd and Lytle's evaluation of the IBM Writing to Read program in the same "Educational Leadership" issue. Claims that WTR helps kindergarten and first grade students produce stories they otherwise would not have written and that research results were misinterpreted. IBM should be allowed to compete in the language education…

A K-8 computer literacy program in Alexandria, Virginia, schools calls for the use of computers in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The history, concepts, process, and applications of computers are taught. Teachers also receive training in computer literacy in a course taught within the school system. (MLF)

Responds to Nelms' critique of the authors' own "Educational Leadership" article criticizing the IBM Writing to Learn program. Since WTR was conceived, programs can be open and interactive and can fit more comfortably into whole language practices. Readers need to weigh the arguments and decide for themselves. (MLH)

Examines IBM's Writing to Read (WTR) program for kindergartners and first graders from four perspectives: its language learning paradigm, the computer program design, the research conducted on its effectiveness, and implementation considerations. Since costs outweigh learning benefits, educators should reconsider purchasing this program. Includes…

Treatment of key variables (resource allocation, instructional quality, and implementation methods) in the Mainstreaming Computers Project involved (1) linking keyboards with one computer; (2) developing criteria for selecting software, sample programs, and a language for writing software; and (3) increasing teacher productivity by assisting…

In 1986, the Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow project investigated how students' and teachers' routine use of technology would affect teaching and learning. After two years, researchers concluded that teachers were not technologically illiterate, children did not become social isolates, children's engagement with technology increased with routine use,…

The steps of policy analysis are similar to those of any research project; however, they focus on problems, issues, and needs. Using the introduction of microcomputers in a school district as an example, these steps are explained. (MLF)

Discusses the progress of reading programs during this century and the influences that shaped those programs. (RK)

The power of the computer to transform learning calls for educators to construct a new view of educational needs in order to make educational system changes that will benefit society. (MLF)

When applied to values education, the personal computer provides interactions that promote reflective analysis while ensuring discretion and psychological safety. (Author)

Highlights from research on electronic learning indicate that computers can improve learning, motivate children, and increase socialization among children. Computer software will continue to be developed in ways that will help students learn. (MLF)

Describes Apple Computer's Early Language Connections (ELC) program. Designed for K-2 grades, ELC integrates Macintosh computers, children's literature, instructional software, and other curriculum materials, including sample lessons constructed around thematic units. The literature-based product uses a whole-language approach (with phonics…