With the right software and teaching strategies, computers can make learning geography fun for students. Several ready-made commercial programs are described. In addition, information is included on utility and application programs, and suggestions are given for using them in geography instruction. (IAH)

Process-centered and problem-solving software can help students develop the skills and strategies needed for independent thought. Different categories of process-centered software are described, with examples of appropriate innovative packages, as well as several classroom activities which illustrate one teacher's use of the computer to promote…

Spreadsheet software allows manipulation of information, helps children to find answers to questions, and encourages them to ask others. Once the teacher sets up the spreadsheet, the program does the work, showing children they can calculate anything, even when their arithmetic skills cannot. (MT)

A review of the Writer Rabbit software program details its multiple classroom uses, focusing on language arts activities such as practicing identification and classification of sentence parts, practicing spelling, and inventing stories. (CB)

This article discusses the WRITE ON! software library which consists of almost 500 literature-based writing activities for grades K-12. These interactive writing guides on disk integrate word processing into literature-based instruction. (IAH)

Reviews several technology-related learning activities for elementary and secondary school students, including a computer animation program, a computer math game, a NASA telecommunication information system, a computer program and book about wild animals, and a monthly audiotape magazine for children. (SM)

Describes computer simulation programs that take elementary and secondary students exploring. One has students act as Magellan commanding his ship to reinforce history, geography, decision-making, and resource management skills. Another has students use problem-solving skills to venture across oceans and find trading routes to the Orient. (SM)

Computers have become an extremely popular teaching tool, but many teachers are still uncomfortable with the resulting changes in education. Educators who have participated in shaping the course of the computers-in-the-schools movement answer some questions commonly asked by teachers. (DF)

Two articles discuss changes that are making technology useful to teachers. After examining computer uses in education, the articles describe new research and educational technology trends, and products and projects that got three teachers hooked on technology. (SM)

The word processor is an effective tool for students composing poetry because of the formatting features and the ease of revision. This article includes several poetry writing activities and identifies software which can be utilized in teaching students to write poetry. (IAH)

One elementary teacher runs her classroom as a technology-based token economy. Students hold classroom jobs and use software to track money earned, manage checking accounts, and disburse classroom cash. The strategy boosts math and technology skills. A list of software programs is included. (SM)

Three elementary teachers describe how they became involved in computer technology and the projects that caught their interest. One teacher used word processing to enhance students' writing abilities. Another used software to tailor learning to all levels. The third tried an international telecommunications program that allowed children to…

Students can participate in worldwide environmental adventures from the classroom. The Puddles to Pondwater software program introduces students to ponds and freshwater creatures worldwide. Students can adopt team members on the Congo Expedition, a group studying the African environment, and follow the expedition via satellite data and…

Computer programs covering several subject areas and grade levels are reviewed. The programs include multimedia courseware, simulations, and interactive software. Teaching tips which suggest methods of utilizing the programs are offered. (IAH)

Five short articles and sidebars present elementary classroom tips, a Westward Movement simulation, technology in the classroom, parental involvement, student assessment, celebrating National Book Week, celebrating Geography Awareness Week, writing contests, antiviolence programs, map making, selecting software, monthly celebrations, a mathematics…