Systems that receive signals from weather satellites are now available to educational institutions at affordable prices. An engineer who designed one of these systems specifically for education describes how they are being used for instruction in growing numbers of schools worldwide. (JN)

Presented is a primer providing the distinction between computer-assisted instruction and computer-managed instruction (CMI), as well as application notes on how CMI contributes to cost-effective achievement of individualized instruction and enhanced student learning. (Author/BB)

St. Mary's College (Maryland) has computerized its entire 167-acre campus for students, faculty, and the administration. The uses of these computers for instructional, administrative, and research purposes at the college are described. Future uses of these computers are also considered. (JN)

Related a high school district's attempt to reduce absenteeism through use of an autodialing machine. Explains the mechanisms of the system and proposes additional uses for it. Indicates that improved attendance rates occurred after its incorporation. (ML)

Describes applications of Time-shared Interactive Computer-Controlled Television (TICCIT) in various computer-assisted instruction programs, including those of the United States armed services. For example, the army is using TICCIT to investigate the effectiveness of CAI as the primary training medium for instructing its reserve units. (JN)

Describes two practical and cost-effective applications which can be achieved through microcomputer-enhanced communication in education. Detailed are applications in brainstorming and computer conferencing. (CS)

To dissolve much of the confusion surrounding videotex and teletext, and the respective merits of these emerging technologies for education, the Annenberg Foundation joined with the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to conduct controlled comparison tests. Results of the project are described. (JN)

Highlights some of the key points in the history and development of videodisc technology and implications they have for education. The two types of systems currently available, costs, storage capacity, and present and future uses of the technology are among the areas considered. (JN)

Many current software systems for authoring interactive microcomputer/video instructional materials have noticeable drawbacks. Advantages of interactive software systems are examined and a research project to develop interactive video authoring tools without the drawbacks is described. (JN)

Carnegie-Mellon University has experienced 20 percent more computing power each year for the same percentage of the University budget. A planning strategy is described to optimize this opportunity. (Author/MK)

Discusses the development of industrial robotics training materials, considering the need for such materials, preliminary curriculum design, the Piagetian approach followed, and the uses of computer assisted instruction. A list of robotics curriculum courses (with content and audience indicated) is included. (JN)

With the change to simpler computers, training the large number of individuals without electronics backgrounds who use/service them became cost prohibitive. However, computer-assisted instruction, coupled with an interactive videodisc, has been found useful in delivering quality instruction cost effectively at a large number of widely dispersed…

Reports that by using several features of the PLATO computer aided instruction system, students in Illinois and Hawaii who were taking similar courses were able to communicate with each other and conduct topical discussions through computer conferencing. This technique has a variety of applications and is available at different sites. (DC)

Explores various topics and issues concerning trends which are related to electronic learning. They include: improved educational opportunities, role of the National Diffusion Network, school-based demonstration projects, use of technology in science writing classes, importance of basic education, and shifting career patterns. (JN)

Describes a model state-wide microcomputer network for vocational education allowing students either to process information independently with one computer or access data and programs residing in the state central library. Each location will have 20 IBM microcomputers and four printers. Implications of this program for public education are…