Conducted to determine whether use of computerized file-management programs can enhance the development of information processing skills, this two-treatment experiment found that seventh through twelfth grade students in the computer-using/structured activities group received significantly higher mean scores than the…

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)

Presents guidelines for creating student database files that supplement classroom teaching. Highlights include determining educational objectives, planning the database with computer specialists and subject area specialists, data entry, and creating student worksheets. Specific examples concerning elements of the periodic table and…

Presents several examples of models for applying data management computer programs to instruction from point of view of an imaginary student. Commentaries following each example speculate on virtues and possible shortcomings of each approach, with the intention of offering valuable perspectives for improved understanding of effective computer use…

This paper reports on the evolution of a software environment called ClassACT (Class Annotation and Collaboration Tool) from a simple multimedia annotation program to a multi-domain archival database management system. ClassACT was developed at Northwestern University (Illinois) for instructional use, and, although its original goal was to solve a…

Explains the development of an instructional software package and accompanying workbook which teaches students to apply computerized statistical analysis to historical data, improving the study of social history. Concludes that the use of microcomputers and supercomputers to manipulate historical data enhances critical thinking skills and the use…

The introduction of computers in the Department of Accounting and Finance at Manchester University is described. General background outlining the increasing need for microcomputers in the accounting curriculum (including financial modelling tools and decision support systems such as linear programming, statistical packages, and simulation) is…

Describes study of undergraduate students that measured four types of attitudes toward computers: (1) computer anxiety; (2) computer confidence; (3) computer liking; and (4) perception of computer usefulness. Independent variables used in the study include gender; keyboard familiarity; prior computer experience; and knowledge of programing, word…

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…

Outlines techniques used in the context of a sixth grade science class to teach database structure and search strategies for science using the AppleWorks program. Provides templates and questions for class and element databases. (Author/YP)

A computer assisted instructional program was developed for teaching data processing technicians at Naval Recruiting Command in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to create database records using CONDOR Database Management System Software. The procedure used in developing the program was based upon the Dick and Carey model of instructional…

This 5-year plan is based on "A Comprehensive Plan for Instructional and Administrative Use of Computers in the Virginia Beach Public Schools" ("The Pogrow Report," completed in December 1984) and the "Task Force Report on Information Systems" (completed in July 1988). These reports document the importance of making…

Describes the process of creating recordable CD-ROMs for faculty classroom multimedia presentations that combine the benefits of traditional overhead transparencies with the benefits of multimedia. Highlights include hardware; software, including presentation software, media integrators, and authoring software; image databases; file management…

Reports on a survey on use of content-free software (i.e., word processing, desktop publishing, database management, spreadsheets, statistics, and computer-aided design) by secondary school teachers in South Wales. Data are presented on computer resources, staff training, level of awareness, and utilization by grade and subject taught. (seven…

Perspectives on educational research are presented, and articles are included that reflect research projects that were undertaken at the Institute for Educational Research (IER) of the Human Services Research Council of the Republic of South Africa (RSA). Articles in this collection include: (1) "Educational Research in the RSA: Trends and…