Provides an overview of the capabilities and potential educational applications of CD-ROM (compact disk read-only memory), artificial intelligence, and speech technology. Highlights include reference materials on CD-ROM; current developments in CD-I (compact disk interactive); synthesized and digital speech for microcomputers, including specific…

Discusses trends in educational software and the effects of new developments on publishers and on the computer industry. Marketing prospects for software are examined, and recent advances are highlighted, including integrated learning systems, skill-based software, software tied to textbooks, networking, and freeware. (LRW)