Many current software systems for authoring interactive microcomputer/video instructional materials have noticeable drawbacks. Advantages of interactive software systems are examined and a research project to develop interactive video authoring tools without the drawbacks is described. (JN)

Reports on the various ways microcomputer hardware and courseware are being integrated into the nation's schools, in a race to avoid being locked into technological mediocrity. Effectiveness of computer assisted instruction, courseware development, and the time students use computers in elementary and secondary schools are among the areas…

The director of an educational technology center, who maintains that much of today's computer courseware is of low quality, provides a checklist of points which can be used to identify educationally viable software then outlines two future scenarios for academia, illustrating the results of courseware selection. (JN)

Discusses a conference organized by The Association for the Development of Computer-Based Instructional Systems titled "Children, Computers and Education" held in the Soviet Union. Describes the use of computers and the computer labs in Soviet schools visited by the conferees. Notes many schools still lack computers. (MVL)

Discusses the development of Pennsylvania's Information Technology Education for the Commonwealth (ITEC) program, which was mandated by legislation in 1984. Describes some of the activities of the 14 Regional Computer Resource Centers (RCRCs) which were created by ITEC to provide computer education to Pennsylvania teachers. (TW)

Describes a successful school model that is piloting computer hardware and software while reviewing and modifying classroom strategies and instructional techniques. Discusses the purpose of the school and a typical day of instruction. Lists results for the fifth and sixth grades. (MVL)

Presents one educator's reaction to the National Task Force on Educational Technology's report. Provides responses to certain passages from the report's eight sections. Emphasizes that educators should look for ways to implement existing information-age technology in addition to more traditional forms of education technologies. (TW)

Discusses the current state of computer managed instruction (CMI) and the advantages it affords both teachers and students. Describes the learning objective as the focus of CMI. Notes the interaction of computer assisted instruction and CMI. Lists a directory of 16 CMI systems. (MVL)

Discusses the development of automated management systems for school library media centers. Suggests that schools of library and information science establish microcomputer laboratories containing state-of-the-art library management software and hardware that could be used for field work, inservices, and conferences. (TW)

Discusses the use of laserdiscs and interactive video technology in an earth science classroom. Delineates the basic equipment needed for a laserdisc workstation, along with a software authoring system. Describes the development and use of a software program called Mission Earth, which contains four lessons on astronomoy. (TW)

Reports findings of the National Task Force on Educational Technology. Includes sections on transforming education, observations on the status of technology education, the potential of technology in education, educational applications of technology, and effects on education. Offers broad recommendations for future uses of technology in education.…

Describes Ontario Ministry of Education efforts to provide microcomputer facilities for schools, facilitate software development, reinforce the ministry's philosophy of education, and stimulate the Canadian computer and software industry. Provides historical perspective and notes recent initiatives taken. (MVL)