This paper reviews evaluation reports on the use of integrated learning systems (ILSs) in elementary and middle schools throughout the United States in light of the following questions: Do these systems work? Do students make more progress using an ILS than learning in "traditional" ways? Could the cost of software and equipment be…

Three vehicles for programming for computer-assisted language instruction are compared: general-purpose programming languages, educational programming languages, and educational authoring systems. Their advantages and disadvantages for a variety of purposes and circumstances are examined as well as the differences in time and energy required for…

Details factors related to the selection of microcomputer systems for computer-based instruction, including cost-effectiveness, instruction improvement and enhancement, and projected use. Descriptions of Apple, Atari, PET, Sorcerer, Terak, Texas Instruments, and TRS-80 are included along with a glossary of microcomputer related terms. (LLS)

This discussion first analyzes major claims of a cognitive-developmentalist perspective on the use of microcomputers in early childhood education. Five topics are specifically addressed: microcomputers and intellectual structures, microcomputers as cultural events, microcomputers and strategy repetoires, instruction and the self-construction of…

Describes two classroom experiments that investigated the effects of using projected-display computers: the first compared teaching a course using a projected display with teaching the course in a computer lab; and the second compared using a computer and projected display with standard lectures. Effects on test scores are discussed. (three…

Discussion of the use of computers as research tools to analyze the writing process focuses on a microcomputer-based software program, Recording WordStar. Studies using the software are described, including comparisons of traditional writing methods with word processing methods and utilization of the software's ability to play back a composition…

Uses the Bradley Inventory of Reading Comprehension Software to evaluate surface characteristics (including documentation and instructional design) of microcomputer reading comprehension programs produced by Scott Foresman, Random House, Control Data Corporation, and Basic Learning Systems. All four programs received high scores, but the Scott…

Designed to develop procedures and acquire information to help decision-makers establish policies for the use of microcomputers for computer-assisted instruction (CAI), this study involved the following steps: (1) a school-based research project was conducted to determine the costs and effects of microcomputer-assisted instruction; (2) an…

Describes creation of special remediation laboratories in subjects of mathematics, reading, and language arts utilizing computer instruction technology in three high schools in Bristol, Connecticut. Funding sources, program implementation, and evaluation reports are discussed. (EJS)

Differences between interactive microcomputer and traditional verbal learning groups in a paired-associate learning task were examined in this study. The 88 subjects, who were undergraduate education students, were randomly assigned to four groups. Each group was given one of two lists of ten high frequency words matched with either high or low…

This report profiles the development, implementation, and evaluation of an interactive videodisc-based (IVD) program, Physical Sciences: Discovery through Interactive Technology. Developed by the Texas Learning Technology Group (TLTG), the program is a comprehensive, 160-hour, two-semester curriculum for secondary school students that integrates…

Describes experiences at the Houston Community College System using personal computers and modems for distance education courses. Topics discussed include modem delivery, program expansion and growth, comparisons with traditional on-campus courses, necessary skills for faculty and students, support services, quality of the learning experience,…

The costs, effects, and utility of mathematics instruction assisted by microcomputer presentations were compared with those of conventional classroom approaches, using 79 students in grades 3 and 5. Results indicate that grouping students for instruction on microcomputers in classrooms is cost effective. (SLD)

While individualized learning strategies typically provide large amounts of instructional support, they also reply heavily on learner judgement to determine the amount of support required to achieve an objective. Frequently, these strategies result in high achievers selecting too much support and low achievers selecting too little. Interest in…

Described and compared are three computer programs designed to teach typing skills: Microsoft's Typing Tutor, Hayden's Microtyping, and Level IV's Touch Typing. (KC)