The controversy over appropriate educational uses of computers is framed along a continuum based on the amount of support provided to the user. Software programs in which the user's role is to respond in a pre-determined structure (program controlled software) anchors one end of the continuum, while software which empowers the user to create new…

This book describes the practice of using learner-centered software in special education. Following an introductory chapter, Chapter 2 provides a discussion of software that goes beyond drill and practice and at the same time fits easily into the existing subject areas of reading/language arts and mathematics. Chapters 3 and 4 discuss using word…

This paper describes the results of a study of the microcomputer use patterns reflected by more than 13,000 users' records from the microcomputer laboratory at Western Kentucky University for 1983 to 1986. The data analyzed focused on: (1) numbers of users; (2) frequent user groups; (3) sex differences; (4) prime time usage; (5) the use of…

This course is the third of seven in the Information Systems curriculum. The purpose of the course is to familiarize students with database management concepts and standard database management software. Databases and their roles, advantages, and limitations are explained. An overview of the course sets forth the condition and performance standard…

Since spring 1987, Mitchell College has included a computer laboratory component in its basic writing curriculum to teach students word processing skills. The development of the program posed a number of challenges: (1) introducing word processing to all students without revising the curriculum; (2) designing a computer facility that could serve…

How microcomputers are to be utilized in on-going mathematics instruction is discussed. In the first section, the ideas of Skinner are considered in relation to microcomputer use. How computer-assisted instruction would appear when Skinner's programmed learning suggestions are followed is described, and other points of his philosophical beliefs…

The 24 papers in these proceedings describe computer technology and its many applications to the educational process. Topics discussed include computer systems in the classroom of the future; how to evaluate a school's computer program; computer use in special education; computer science and the liberal arts; keyboarding issues; making the…

This guide provides a collection of ideas for word processing activities that teachers have found to be useful in special education classes. The guide begins with a list of 41 computer skills, the grade levels at which the skills are usually introduced (from kindergarten to secondary levels), and provides names of commercial programs which may be…

Case studies are presented for seven Los Angeles area (California) high schools that worked with Pepperdine University in the IBM/ETS (International Business Machines/Educational Testing Service) Model Schools program, a project which provided training for selected secondary school teachers in the use of personal computers and selected software as…

Reviews research on the efficacy of word processing programs in teaching students how to revise their papers and speculates on what kinds of programs will be available in the future. (JC)

Reviews concepts which form the basis for a communicative approach to foreign language software design. Examples of communicative program formats, the role of Local Area Networks, and teachers' roles in designing and implementing such software are also discussed. (Author/CB)

The nature of literacy associated with the widely used new medium of microcomputers has not been fully exploited by schools to foster development of literacy programs. Microcomputer applications need integration with classroom activities where students construct language meaning. (19 references) (CJH)

This paper describes in depth the development, use, and capabilities of a microcomputer-based bibliographic system established for the International Program for Agricultural Knowledge Systems at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Hardware, software and outputs, and features of the INMAGIC database (adding records, searching,…

Procedures for using word processing or database software to generate information packets for parents are described. The packets highlight the nature of a child's speech-language disorder and provide home activities. Packets can be easily and quickly tailored to meet the needs of individual clients and their families. (Author)

Reviews 70 software programs and 19 print publications, and provides a short synopsis of the best programs. Included areas are: teaching others to use AppleWorks, writing templates, curriculum applications, tools for teachers and administrators, and desktop tools and utilities. Lists resource books for AppleWorks. (MVL)