Proposes an Evaluative Framework that is designed to help users determine whether software and web pages fit with their literacy goals. Notes that this Evaluative Framework takes a global approach by including various theoretical perspectives, stances toward integrating literacy and technology, aspects of literacy, and types of educational…

Preservice teachers (n=22) observed 45 elementary students' use of instructional CD-ROMs and evaluated the software. Pre/post data indicated that their initial unproblematic views of instructional software modified somewhat. They became more aware of issues in technology use in education. (Contains 19 references.) (SK)

Examines current state of children's software evaluation practice. Predicts future educational software evaluation in light of the dynamic nature of educational and "edutainment" software. Discusses key issue such as the best way to evaluate the appropriateness of software for children at each age group and the most efficient means of making this…

Analyzes mathematics software programs to find engaging and easy-to-use software for integration into the elementary school mathematics curriculum. Discusses criteria for judging good software and useful classroom implementation. (KHR)

Discusses the use of technology to individualize mathematics instruction for gifted students. The use of computers in a mathematics classroom allowed students to identify objectives, communicate results, and implement activities related to goals. Successful math software programs are highlighted. (CR)

The number and range of instructional resources in mathematics and science education can be overwhelming to educators. The chief mission of The Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science Education (ENC) is to help educators sort through the confusion by identifying relevant resources such as print materials, software, kits, and…

Reviews the Earobics program, an auditory development and phonics software program designed to provide auditory processing and phonemic awareness training. The conceptual framework motivating the software development is assessed though an analysis of the six games of the program. Strengths and limitations of the program are discussed. (CR)

Discusses use of Vygotsky's zone of proximal development as a theoretical construct for designing Ecolab educational software. Describes an evaluation of the software with elementary school students, noting the usefulness of the ZPD construct despite students' inability to set up challenging tasks and seek appropriate assistance. Considers issues…

Examines contributions of computer-assisted reading software (CARS) to current teaching practice. Presented framework for evaluating the technical and pedagogic characteristics of CARS. Described case study using proposed framework to evaluate the use of talking books software in British schools. Cognitive and affective benefits are identified.…

Provides an annotated bibliography of up-to-date information on computer technology for geographic education in elementary schools. Suggests that, if teachers are made aware of the available resources of sophisticated computer technology, they will be better able to face the challenges in geography education. (AA)

Investigates which computer software programs are most available and most frequently employed by students in Catholic elementary schools. Identifies the extent to which computer software programs, implicitly or explicitly, contained values antithetical to, or supportive of, the educational philosophy of a Catholic school. Contains 18 references.…

Presents results of a study of six kinds of linguistic education software. Discusses treatment of language as an object rather than as a means of communication. Reports that the software promotes reflection on language and metalanguage awareness in a social and educational context by stimulating children's interest in playing with language. (DK)

A study investigated software choices of graduate-level clinicians in a university reading clinic to determine computer use and effectiveness in literacy instruction. The clinic involved students of varying ability, ages 7-12, using 24 Power Macintosh computers equipped with "ClarisWorks,""Kid Pix,""Student Writing…

When matched for achievement level and educational objectives, computer technology can be particularly effective with at-risk students. Computer-assisted instructional software is the most widely available type of software. An exciting development pertinent to literacy education is the development of the "electronic book" (also called…

This practicum was designed to solve a problem related to the provision of a computer training component for students enrolled in an early childhood education teacher training program. Increasing pressures on graduates of the training program to integrate computers and educational software into programs for young children as well as the students'…