Discusses benefits and pitfalls of networking or disk-sharing in computer labs where microcomputers are connected to a central disk drive which runs one program for all microcomputers at one time. Copyright and software compatibility from educators' and publishers' perspectives, costs, time factors, and educational objectives are included in the…

Discusses microcomputer network benefits; points out their current shortcomings in the areas of software availability and legal use, required equipment, and vendor reliability; describes how to set up a worthwhile specialized network despite these shortcomings; and outlines reasons for expecting networks to play a larger future role in education.…

An overview is provided of De Anza College's use of computerized instruction in its mathematics courses. After reviewing the ways in which computer technology is changing math instruction, the paper looks at the use of computers in several course sequences. The instructional model for the algebra sequence is based on a large group format of…

A description is provided of Los Angeles Valley College's Life Science Learning Center (LSLC), which provides: (1) a resource center addressed to the individualized learning needs of students served by the Biology Department; (2) a learning environment enabling students to proceed in self-paced, activity-centered, concept-oriented experiences in…

The first of three sections of this handbook deals with the use of the computer in the learning resource center. A dictionary of computer terms is followed by a description of areas of computer use in the learning resource center. Information for first-time computer users is then provided, including use of the Apple microcomputer and care and use…

This description of an ideal school computer laboratory focuses on physical characteristics and includes guidelines for floors, walls, ceilings, doors, wiring, seating configurations, and furniture. (LRW)

Describes alternative technology-based support services for at-risk students. Discusses at-risk students' academic needs and advantages of computer-aided instruction, interactive video, etc., in supporting learning. Profiles the use of technology-based modules at Florida State University to help students prepare for the College Level Academic…

Describes the generation and use of experimental data in teaching economics. Includes a double oral auction experiment and a monopoly pricing experiment. Concludes that such experiments allow the instructor to see what the students have learned, how they reason, and what parts of the material have proved difficult. (DK)

The computer applications that hold most promise for writers form a large class of utility programs, including word processing and text editing. However, the computer can pose some problems for the student in the writing center. What proportion of writing center students arrive ready to work at the keyboard? Will learning to type present special…

The addition of the application and use of microcomputers to the academic programs at the University of Akron's College of Education was a gradual process. During the early 1970's, with acceptance by both the administration and the faculty and some budgeting support, a university-wide Computer Based Education Center was established, and the…

Reviews ERIC literature on four major themes related to instructional technology at the community college: computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction, distance education and televised instruction, and the role of learning laboratories and learning resource centers in housing and making available nonprint educational media. (AYC)

Describes Southeastern Louisiana University's developmental English microcomputer laboratory and the changes undertaken since the facility was funded in 1983. Stresses the importance of a good support system of faculty and graduate assistants. Presents evaluation results showing improvements in students' attitudes and writing skills. (DMM)

Study of algebra students' response to availability of optional interactive computer graphing lessons analyzed responses of both users and non-users. Information sought included number of lessons completed, students' opinions of value and difficulty of lessons, whether students felt threatened by computer use, and relationship of gender and age to…

Describes demonstration grant project undertaken by the Rapid City South Dakota school district to determine whether computer assisted instruction (CAI) would be beneficial to Native American children. Discussion covers operation and results of the program, which offered CAI instruction in reading and language arts to students in grades three to…

Teachers from four school systems set up their own computer centers from scratch. Each center is tailored to the needs and resources of the school or schools involved. The centers range from a one-machine operation in the corner of a resource room to a laboratory with 18 microcomputers. (PP)