The considerable expense of computer hardware and computer language complexities are limitations to the use of computer assisted instruction in higher education. The use of microcomputer systems is suggested as an alternative. Advantages, limitations and a recommended system are discussed. (JMD)

Discusses the use of microcomputers for technical skills training, particularly in auto mechanics. Indicates that the major reasons for implementing the method are time and money: The graduate technician is on the job sooner, thereby reducing the cost of the computer-based training. (JOW)

Educators must think clearly about how they want students' education to improve, what computers can do to help, how that assistance can be accomplished, and whether any of this is affordable. (Author/JM)

Computer-based education provides adult educators with an interactive and self-paced medium which has pedagogical and cost advantages. Applications of such educational technology must be an integral part of the instruction process. (Author/SK)

Details factors related to the selection of microcomputer systems for computer-based instruction, including cost-effectiveness, instruction improvement and enhancement, and projected use. Descriptions of Apple, Atari, PET, Sorcerer, Terak, Texas Instruments, and TRS-80 are included along with a glossary of microcomputer related terms. (LLS)

Some studies of school technology demonstrate that cost-effective analysis allows similar programs to be compared. Cites a report "Power On! New Tools for Teaching and Learning," available from the Government Printing Office. (MLF)

Pennsylvania State University has developed, evaluated, and implemented a series of modules and an entire three-credit teacher education course which is offered completely by microcomputer. The course is entitled "Educating Special Learners." The modules use the Apple II series and the IBM PC series. Evaluation of the course, based on…

Discusses the problems encountered in viewing original works of art for scholarship purposes, and argues that a combination of videodisks and computers offers a cost effective method of reproduction. A description of the development of the Perseus Project, a visual database of ancient Greece, focuses on advantages to scholars. (CLB)

Examines characteristics of the successful computer assisted instruction (CAI) author, including knowledge required and time for planning, developing, and testing. Obstacles to successful teacher-author are described, including need for extensive training and uninterrupted free time. An alternative approach of teamwork between computer…

The purpose of this article is to discuss hardware issues and help educators assess their hardware needs in order to determine the best computer hardware for their school program. Good and bad features, flexibility, reliability, cost effectiveness, and optimum classroom configuration are given particular attention. (LMO)

Describes thin clients as low-cost personal computers that lack hardware features and run applications off of a school's central server or via an application service provider on the Internet. Discusses advantages, including being easy to use, easy to manage, and less costly to service; and considers possible problems. (LRW)

This paper introduces a rationale and format for the introduction of microcomputers into the classrooms of British Columbia on a cost-effective basis. The three purposes of the paper are (1) to briefly present the activities of the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC); (2) to describe in general terms how British Columbia might…

Discusses costs related to providing computer assisted instruction (CAI), considering hardware, software, user training, maintenance, and installation. Provides an example of the total cost of CAI broken down into these categories, giving an adjusted yearly cost. Projects future trends and costs of CAI as well as cost savings possibilities. (JM)

With budget cutbacks and the continuing loss of qualified teachers, the computer is potentially our strongest tool for improving productivity. (Author)

Using a computer for interactive training opens up a whole new range of capabilities which would otherwise be prohibitively expensive. This article reviews procedures for developing programs and introduces ideas for exploration. (JOW)