B. F. Skinner provides advice for educators on several issues related to computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Some pitfalls of programed instruction in the 1960s which CAI may also face today, aversive control, courseware design, and use of computer graphics are among the areas explored. (JN)

Highlights the advantages of word processors and spelling checkers in improving student writing skills. Explains how spelling checkers work and describes the types of available checkers. Also provides lists of Apple, IBM, and Commodore word processors and checkers. (ML)

Joseph Weizenbaum (author of the computer program ELIZA) discusses his views about educational computing, pointing out why he is not convinced that children below the tenth grade benefit from the introduction of computers into the curriculum, and why larger educational issues must be addressed. (JN)

Examines such assumptions about the educational benefits of computers in schools as freeing education from its historic limitation as a labor-sensitive industry and allowing for more individualization of instruction. Also considers the effectiveness of software programs in the classroom as well as computer costs and cost effectiveness. (JN)

Reports on how experts in special education approach the problem of software selection. Offers guidance in examining if the software is modifiable and if it offers record-keeping options. Also contains a listing of sample programs that are suitable for special education students in language arts, mathematics, and problem solving. (ML)

Describes one teacher's approach to desktop publishing. Explains how the Macintosh and LaserWriter were used in the publication of a school newspaper. Guidelines are offered to teachers for the establishment of a desktop publishing lab. (ML)

Follows the development of hypertext which is the electronic movement of large amounts of text. Probes the use of the Macintosh HyperCard and its applications in education. Notes programs are stackable in the computer. Provides tool, resource, and stack directory along with tips for using HyperCard. (MVL)

Discusses some of the factors included in choosing appropriate computer networks for the classroom. Describes such networks as those produced by Apple Computer, Corvus Systems, Velan, Berkeley Softworks, Tandy, LAN-TECH, Unisys, and International Business Machines (IBM). (TW)

Provides information and reviews of geography computer software classified as drill-and-practice, simulations, and databases. Includes title, publisher, hardware needed, suggested grade level, geographic area covered, content emphasized, and the strengths and weaknesses of each program. (TW)

Reviews the various ways in which LOGO has been used by teachers both correctly and inappropriately. Discusses the status of and future direction of LOGO in classroom instruction. Provides a summary of the third annual LOGO Conference. (ML)

Presents practical teaching suggestions selected from commercially available materials and also submitted by readers that can be easily adapted to different grade levels. Contains seven computer based ideas on topics such as computerized banking, database management, trigonometry applications, timing programs, keyboard use, and programming…

Summarizes findings of a survey school use of microcomputers. Results indicate that most schools have microcomputers, secondary schools are more likely than elementary schools to have them, and drill/practice and programing are major uses. Additional findings reported focus on time spent by student users, regular teacher users, and other areas.…

Summarized are six journal articles from five journals published in 1988. Included is one article which summarizes other studies. Sources of other similar articles are listed and discussed. Topics noted here include BASIC programing, computer-based instruction, student preparation, text density, and teacher workload. (CW)

Describes several computer courseware packages designed to teach about the 200th anniversary of the United States Constitution. Lists the title, publisher, required hardware, suggested grade level, type of program, price, and description of nine such programs. (TW)

Discusses the use of computerized databases in instructional settings. Provides examples of how such instructional databases could be accessed directly by students. Lists some commercially available databases, distinguishing between their type, computer compatability, price, grade level, and their general searching abilities. (TW)