This paper provides a review of the rhetoric behind the component movement in educational software, and a critical analysis and synthesis of issues underlying the movement. We draw on case studies of several significant recent component projects in order to assess claims and to uncover and examine issues that are less often considered. While our…

The Web has caught the attention of many educators as an efficient communication medium and content delivery system. But we feel there is another aspect of the Web that has not been given the attention it deserves. We call this aspect of the Web its "component architecture." Briefly it means that on the Web one can develop very complex…

Provides an overview of the educational software market by listing and describing representative software packages from 54 manufacturers. The descriptions (based on information supplied by the manufacturers) covers all subject areas and educational levels. (JN)

Presents a list of favorable reviewed microcomputer software for K-12 student instruction. It is not a buying guide, but an aid in locating programs for review. Software are listed under such headings as computer awareness, advanced mathematics, algebra, arithmetic, problem-solving/logic, biology, astronomy, chemistry, environmental…

Outlines how the National Education Association's Educational Computer Service program for evaluation of educational software is run, and responds to critics of the program. (MD)

Analyzes technological capabilities of the Web as a delivery platform for highly interactive learning resources, consistent with a constructivist view of learning. Shows that all of the required software capabilities can be implemented by Web technology and discusses barriers to use of the Web as a medium for such resources, including bandwidth.…

The paper will argue that adopting a learning design methodology may provide a vehicle for enabling better design and reuse of Open Educational Resources (OERs). It will describe a learning design methodology, which is being developed and implemented at the Open University in the UK. The aim is to develop a "pick and mix" learning design…

Discusses the dissatisfaction of teachers with using computers in the classroom and argues that the problem is not the computers themselves, but rather the deplorable state of educational software. (SRT)

A recent survey found many teachers are selecting instructional software programs without sufficient research. Outlines four areas to consider when buying instructional software. (MD)

Presents and evaluates the National Education Association's for-pay software review program. Also reviews the 98th Congress's legislation relating to school software. (MD)

The Languages Review Consultation Report recommends exploiting the potential of communications technology for the enhancement of curricular offerings. Newly developed instructional software is credited with opening doors to the cultures of young people while serving as an infinitely patient and supportive tutor. Thus, in the UK as in the US,…

Provides an annotated list of suggested readings relating to schools and computers. (MD)

Explores the use of microcomputers in readability calculation. (DF)

The home computer must be outfitted with high quality software to be a valuable educational tool. Suggestions on where to look for software and standards to use in evaluating materials are offered. (DF)

Discusses the development of an instrument to assist educators in evaluating software and to aid them in developing useful software for nutrition education and nutrient analysis purposes. The complete survey instrument is included. (JN)