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)

This discussion of the design of data files for databases to be created by secondary school students uses AppleWorks software as an example. Steps needed to create and use a database are explained, the benefits of group activity are described, and other possible projects are listed. (LRW)

Describes the development of a computer lab for freshman high school students. Questions to consider when planning a computer environment are suggested; software and hardware selection is discussed; room arrangements are considered; issues related to buying and installing software are described, including site licensing; and the computer…

This second in a series of articles on planning for instructional computer networks focuses on site preparation, installation, service, and support. Highlights include an implementation schedule; classroom and computer lab layouts; electrical power needs; workstations; network cable; telephones; furniture; climate control; and security. (LRW)

Summarizes educational research on four aspects of learner feedback--function, timing, schedule, and type--and discusses implications of the findings for software development. (MBR)

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)

This third installment in a series on instructional videodiscs for teachers focuses on the equipment needed to bring videodisc programs to the classroom. Videodisc delivery systems are explained, players and monitors are described, and three types of computer-controlled systems are discussed: hybrid systems, peripheral systems, and integrated…

Describes a short computer program written in Logo programing language designed to provide students with new experiences in the study of vectors as they apply to classical physics. Suggestions for introductions, preparation, follow-up activities, and program examples are included. (EJS)

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…

Discussion of the development of educational software for reading instruction focuses on seven misconceptions that reflect a misunderstanding of the reading process and a misapplication of the principles of instructional design to the teaching of reading. Highlights include electronic text versus printed text; sound-symbol correspondence;…

Describes three studies conducted at Pennsylvania State University to determine the effects on achievement and student satisfaction of various ratios of questions or highlights to text in computer assisted instruction (CAI) modules; question or highlight placement; and having questions or highlights on same or following page of target text. (MBR)

Describes initial encounter of a fifth grade student with Logo, a computer program language designed to develop in the user a knowledge of programing, geometry, arithmetic, and problem solving. A brief description of Logo, programing examples, and two references are included. (EJS)

Describes a project developed for fifth graders that was designed to teach them about databases through collecting information for a community census. Activities supported by the census project are listed, including both noncomputer activities and computer activities; and an effective sequence of instruction with databases is discussed. (LRW)

Describes computer curriculum designed for gifted middle school students that culminates in the eighth grade by having students prepare programs for elementary school students. Students either write their own programs or adapt public domain software, based on questionnaire responses from elementary school teachers indicating their needs. (LRW)

Discusses author's adaptation of the computer language Logo as an aid in teaching college preservice education students programming, geometry, arithmetic, and problem solving. A description of how Logo works and an example of how "turtle geometry" can be used to help teach geometry concepts are included. Four references are listed. (EJS)