In special education, computers can assist with individualized instruction and manage recordkeeping, but instructional applications are frequently limited by software. Educators must become advocates by supporting computer literacy programs and becoming consultants for researchers and software developers to assure the development of quality…

Offers a comparison of the pedagogical philosophies of five pioneers in educational computing: Patrick Suppes, Arthur Luehrmann, Alfred Bork, Symour Papert, and Thomas Dwyer. (AEA)

Discusses what to look for in training materials, focusing on educational value, cost effectiveness, and user support. The special advantages of the computer for training are also considered. (JN)

The author examines ways in which microcomputers can be used with gifted students, addressing the following topics: hardware, educational software, computer literacy, the computer as research tool, the computer and creativity, programing, and computers and the very young. (CL)

Describes and evaluates "Language Study Center," a computer diskette composed of 12 lessons, 4 each in German, French, and Spanish. It contains drills, tests, learning games, and tutorials and also allows teachers to make additional lessons and questions and answers. Also presents guidelines for teachers to use in evaluating…

Offers 10 suggestions to help teachers avoid the pitfalls encountered by unknowing software purchasers. Suggestions include checking for compatibility, determining objectives, testing for material sequence, and reading the documentation. (FL)

The author describes a project designed to assess visual, auditory and tactile access to microcomputers for curricular, vocational, and leisure time use by visually handicapped youth. Criteria are proposed to evaluate software for use in computer assisted instruction. (CL)

The paper provides an overview of the uses of software for teaching language arts, mathematics and thinking skills to hearing impaired students. Content area programs are listed with descriptive information, price, and developer name. (Author/CL)

The paper explains how interactive video can be used to create a special type of software that combines the best features of videotape (motion and color) and computer-assisted instruction. A rationale for interactive video is provided, and a sample lesson described. (Author/CL)

Compares "computer based learning" in Europe with "computer assisted instruction" in the United States, noting that, in spite of the connotations of the names, the teacher is the primary beneficiary of software in Europe while the student is the primary beneficiary of software in the U.S. (HTH)

Describes the use of two computer simulations in a journalism class to help teach information-gathering techniques and information evaluation. (HTH)

Of the 342 surveyed programs, 82 percent responded, and 51 percent used microcomputers as an instructional tool. Results indicate a critical need for a software exchange among programs for hearing-impaired students, as well as in-service training and information-sharing programs. The survey information indicates the need for increased support for…

Presents evaluation criteria for reviewing foreign language microcomputer teaching programs. Areas covered include accuracy and authenticity of the language, documentation of the program's goals and uses, presentation of information which embodies sound methods of language instruction, packaging which fosters student interest, and the ease with…

The paper describes the development of an interactive computer training program (COMP-TREX) that uses microcomputer technology in a nonthreatening way and that has proven successful in classroom applicants with learning disabled students. Use of the Super Pilot software system in language processing is discussed. (CL)

Several eras of computer-assisted language instruction are outlined, and it is suggested that the multiplicity of templates, or mini-authoring systems, currently available can be very helpful to language teachers. The PROMPT template designed for two types of reading comprehension is described. (MSE)