Describes ways in which computers are used to help undergraduates learn through designing, i.e., various creative activities. Highlights include projects sponsored by the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) and the FIPSE Technology Study Group (FTSG), the importance of design in curriculum, and problems with teaching and…

Discussion of the potential of computers in education focuses on the need for experiential learning and developing creativity in students. Learning processes are explained in light of artificial intelligence research, problems with current uses of computers in education are discussed, and possible solutions using intelligent simulation software…

Describes how interactive programs for scientific modeling may be created by using spreadsheet software such as LOTUS 1-2-3. Lists the advantages of using this method. Discusses fractional distillation, batch partial melting, and combination models as examples. (CW)

Describes how the limitations of the built-in graphics capabilities of spreadsheet software can be overcome by making full use of the flexibility of the grahics options. Uses triangular plots with labeled field boundaries produced using Lotus 1-2-3 to demonstrate these techniques and their use in teaching geology. (CW)

Indicates that use of two microcomputer word recognition programs led to substantial increases in word recognition/decoding skills and to substantial improvements in comprehension at the word and proposition/sentence level, but to no improvement at the passage level. (NKA)

Research on computers in schools is reviewed. The findings include the following: (1) 53 percent of schools have computers; (2) restructuring classroom schedules and revising inservice programs would expand computer use; (3) software packages should allow for individual differences; (4) publishers are coordinating software with curriculum; and (5)…

This description of the use of interactive video in auto mechanics courses for secondary and postsecondary students emphasizes its value for individualized instruction. Authoring systems used are discussed, redesigning commercially available videotapes is described, hardware and software specifics are given, and an opinion on copyright is…

Presents a computerized version of the Prisoner's Dilemma game, which runs on several Apple computers. Makes a case for utilizing the program in interpersonal, small group, and social conflict communication classes. Describes the four computerized versions of the game: rational, partially rational, nonrational, and assumed rational. (JD)

Discusses types of software most useful in social studies classes--games, simulations, and word processing, database, spreadsheets, and graphing--and introduces applications software through descriptions of four learning activities from different parts of the social studies curriculum: introducing databases, writing historical journals, tracking…

Describes the creation and development of a computer software package called SPIRIT which assists secondary students in all phases of the writing process. (NKA)

Presents a combination review and teaching guide to HOMER, a computer program for writing instruction that analyzes text and has a feedback feature which encourages students to question its revision suggestions. (NKA)

Examines criteria for software selection and the use of software packages (programs, routines, documentation) in school library management. General criteria, specific criteria for selecting library management programs (for tasks such as circulation, cataloging, recordkeeping), specific criteria for selecting educational programs, and reviewing…

Describes the design and development of inservice teacher education courses on application of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in art classrooms, and summarizes participating teachers' opinions on educational value of computer software and peripheral equipment for specific art applications to which they were introduced during the session. (MBR)

Effective use of microcomputers with gifted students requires that educators consider long- and short-range program goals, select software carefully, and integrate microcomputer functions into the overall curriculum. Microcomputers are not a panacea for the gifted, but their proper use may enhance instruction and stimulate learning. (JHZ)

Examines incorporation of local production of microcomputer software as part of school library media center services, highlighting need for local production, software types (adapting and altering commercial programs, finding and trading noncopyrighted programs, assisting in computer-assisted instruction authoring, programing computer lessons from…