Provides an overview of five major systems utilizing optical media, including basic descriptions, applications, configurations, and advantages and disadvantages. Systems covered are interactive videodisc, compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), integrated systems, digital video interactive, and QuickTime and Video for Windows. (five references)…

Examines nine important questions that can help directors of child-care centers in selecting software to assist them with administrative tasks. These questions were developed based on the insights offered by an exchange panel of 200 members currently using center management software. Includes a listing of 24 center management software packages on…

Points out that computer software which is to be used with young children in early childhood classes must be designed and selected to reflect a sound developmental approach to learning. Also presents 10 criteria for developmentally appropriate software and reviews several developmentally appropriate computer programs for young children. (BB)

Investigates the many different desktop publishing packages available today. Lists the steps to desktop publishing. Suggests which package to use with specific hardware available. Compares several packages for IBM, Mac, and Apple II based systems. (MVL)

Examines nine important questions which need to be researched before selecting software that will meet a child care center's needs within its budget. Provides product descriptions of 27 software programs currently on the market. (BB)

Selecting hardware and software for adult literacy instruction is a complicated task requiring careful attention to the integration of various computer models, software packages, and instructional objectives. Decisions surrounding the acquisition and maintenance of technology are further complicated by limited funding, expertise, information, and…

When integrated appropriately into the curriculum, technology can support the achievement of specific learning outcomes. To help newcomers to technology, the paper lists professional journals, technology organizations, and quality software and multimedia catalogs and presents a list of strategies teachers can use to evaluate whether technology can…

Guidelines for the planning and purchase of microcomputer systems are presented in outline form. These guidelines are directed to educators in developmental education, special education, and learning center environments; however, they are applicable to all educators intending to use microcomputers. First, a discussion of hardware considerations is…

A review of the technological and psychological literature suggests the existence of two psychological constructs that severely impact on teachers' use of new technology, especially computers: Technophobia and Computerphobia. The review explores some suggestions for avoiding, overcoming and general coping with these problems by both the teachers…

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)

Presents an annotated report on child care management software programs designed to computerize financial and data management functions for child care centers. (BB)

The article addresses advances in speech and language assessment through the use of technology. Discussed are the large amounts of accurate diagnostic information that software can generate and the use of microcomputers in data interpretation. Categories of assessment software (phonological analysis and language sample analysis) are considered and…

The paper addresses the future status of education, with particular attention to microcomputer uses in special educaion. An analysis of public education in contemporary society suggests that in the near future children will be educated at home by their parents with the help of computers and telecommunication systems. The author cites economic…

Presents an eight-step model for introducing computers into an educational program. Emphasizes advance planning, which includes developing a theoretical basis, specifying a mission, defining measurable outcome, refining evaluation criteria, preparing a program, and implementing, evaluating, and recycling the results. (MLH)

Examines issues related to educational computing. Indicates that although teachers and software makers say that home computers will transform schools, problems of equity and quality of courseware remain unresolved. Points out that 80 percent of educational programs have gone on the market with little or no research or testing. (JN)