Suggests practical steps to follow in searching for microcomputer systems to be used as instructional aids. Poses questions regarding general equipment type; kind of system needed; financial and administrative support; committee formation; information sources; and final decision making. (DMM)

Discusses three options for elementary or secondary schools buying microcomputers, including getting either a single comprehensive unit, several fully expandable units, or units with limited expandability. Notes advantages, disadvantages, and brand-name models available under each option. Presents a chart showing the features needed for six…

Acquaints the reader with the personal computer, emphasizing its use as an aid in the learning process; considers the types of hardware available and software related to educational uses; and offers advice to those just entering this area. (Author)

Dicusses Modesto City (California) Schools' successful planning process for integrating a computer education program into the curriculum. Planning focused on six basic questions the district asks about any curriculum area reviewed. Generic skills needed for decision-making and other academic and occupational pursuits were targeted. (MLH)

Outlines strategies adopted in producing a software package called SCRIBE and procedures through which tests can be produced, student responses marked, and reports generated. A brief summary of the reactions of teachers to the package is also included. (JN)

Describes one previously "computer illiterate" teacher's experiences in taking a beginning course in computer programming and notes the teacher's resulting sense of achievement, growth in self-confidence, and ability to use the computer to tailor educational computer programs to individual student needs. (PGD)

Describes applications of Time-shared Interactive Computer-Controlled Television (TICCIT) in various computer-assisted instruction programs, including those of the United States armed services. For example, the army is using TICCIT to investigate the effectiveness of CAI as the primary training medium for instructing its reserve units. (JN)

In 1981, the British government allocated 1.1 million pounds to introduce a trial computer-based learning (CBL) program to the nation's education system. Following a 2-year pilot project, a CBL Unit was formed to build on the success of the initial experiment. The unit coordinator describes this on-going project. (JN)

Presents justifications for computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in debate. Suggests programs that could be written. Discusses one CAI application: the use of CAI drills to train negative team members and to instruct in cross-examination skills. Includes the "Listing of CAI Drill for 1st Negative Debater." (PD)

The role of the computer in the classroom can range from "toy" to be used when boredom sets in to mechanical monster that monopolizes precious classroom time with little residual benefit. However, a middle ground exists. At Auburn University (Alabama), the computer is used in an intermediate French course to complement rather than…

A literature search was conducted to examine the development of computer-based instructional (CBI) materials in higher education and CBI's impact on learning processes. Indicates that although CBI may not replace traditional methods of engineering instruction, it does offer significant advantages. These advantages are discussed. (JN)

Proposes the use of microcomputers in behavioral science courses as a writing, evaluating, and calculating tool; an individual instruction tutor; and an inexpensive and nontime-consuming environment for observation and experimentation. Looks at ways the microcomputer can be used by students and instructors, implementation considerations, and…

The concerns of how personal computers can be used to increase the overall effectiveness of education are addressed. Topics discussed include: availability; teacher use; word processing; calculators; class use; computer-assisted-instruction; and simulations. Thorough faculty inservice on computer enhanced education is suggested before implementing…

At Arizona State University in Tempe, Academic Computing Services provides large-scale support for the computer graphics programs. (MLF)

Technical, interpersonal, and managerial skills are necessary in order to assume the responsibilities of a computer supervisor. Technical skills refer to computer proficiency and include an in-depth awareness of the methods and procedures needed to implement various facets of computer education in school settings, such as knowledge of computer…