Discusses the importance of accurate graphic presentation and describes graphs available on "LabQuest" computer software. Highlights include graphing conventions; prerequisites for computer graphing; bar graphs; pie graphs; stacked bar graphs; line graphs; x/y graphs; scatter graphs; box plots; stem and leaf graphs; best fit graphs; and…

Reviews the historical evolution of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and discusses recent advances in intelligent systems. Intelligent tutoring systems are described from the system designer's and learner's perspectives, and possible future applications are considered. A list of existing intelligent CAI systems is provided. (14 references) (CLB)

Explains how the different levels of instructional videodisc programs serve different teaching situations. Characteristics of the software and the hardware system required for its use are described; the role of the teacher is discussed; and levels of interactivity between the student and the computer are described. (LRW)

Suggests computer assisted instruction software that doesn't provide all necessary components of a lesson can be useful if the teacher identifies instructional functions (Gagne's Events of Instruction) provided by the program and supplies those that are missing. This framework is applied to analysis of a specific computer program. (MBR)

Describes how HyperCard software can be used to direct students to databases, applications, and explanations in an online environment. The use of HyperCard with other software is discussed; using HyperCard to set up tutorials is explained; and limitations are addressed, including the amount of memory needed and the speed of the hardware. (LRW)

Describes how to teach students to plan and write reports using software designed to facilitate information organization. Creating outlines and concept maps is discussed, examples are provided that use "Inspiration" software, and a list of software titles for outliners and concept mappers is provided. (Contains two references.) (LRW)

Describes techniques for using computer-assisted instruction to help students of various ages and needs develop job-related skills. Topics addressed include classroom organization, beginning skills, shopping simulations, other simulations, deciphering signs, social skills, writing activities, and followup. (MES)

Describes a study that examined the effects of various computer reinforcement responses, including graphics and/or sound, on students' attentiveness to the program. Implications for educational software design are discussed. (CLB)

Describes a survey of members of the Educational Software Evaluation Consortium that resulted in a ranked list of 22 criteria used in preparing their annual software preview guide. Noting that content and pedagogical concerns received the highest rankings, the report offers five recommendations for future software development, evaluation, and…

Describes activities that present concepts and applications of artificial intelligence (AI) for elementary and secondary school students. The use of Logo with elementary students is discussed; appropriate software is described; programing activities using Logo, BASIC, and Prolog are examined; and the field of robotics is discussed. (four…

This account of personal experiences with computers in the classroom and the development of educational software describes trends in software design and development, the involvement of publishers in software development, and the role of the teacher. Emphasis is on the need to create software that the teacher can use as a tool in teaching. (LRW)

Describes mobile computer carts developed at the Lawrence Hall of Science that use IBM PS/2 computers and Personal Science Laboratory probeware. Activities using temperature probes for elementary and secondary school students are described, including greenhouse environments, ice cream/chemical reactions, probe races, motion studies, and…

Describes issues raised at the 1991 annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association (AERA). Highlights include the formation of a new division that would address concerns dealing with research on computer-based educational technologies; new developments in courseware, video technology, and interactive multimedia; learning theories…

Discusses benefits of keyboarding instruction for elementary school students, emphasizing the integration of keyboarding with language arts instruction. Traditional typing and computer-assisted instruction are discussed, six software packages for adapting keyboarding instruction to the classroom are reviewed, and suggestions for software selection…

Presents a selection model for choosing appropriate software for special education students. The management process is described as well as the instructional process, professional journals and other sources of software reviews are discussed, and the importance of the consistent application of evaluative criteria is emphasized. (LRW)