To determine which elements of courseware are and are not effective in computer-based education, 59 learning disabled students were observed during a 5 1/2-month period using over 20 commercial courseware packages. Additional elements of the naturalistic study included interviews with teachers, students, and administrators; and analysis of the…

Discussion of at-risk elementary and secondary school students focuses on the use of computers and appropriate software as tools to help keep these students in school. Uses of software are described for skills building, as a motivational tool, to strengthen critical thinking, and as a tutor in specific subject areas. (LRW)

Suggestions for incorporating the computer into remedial reading programs are offered, focusing on student motivation, criteria for selecting good computer programs, and methods for involving students in nonthreatening ways. Thirteen software programs are recommended. (DB)

Describes a study that investigated the interaction of learning-disabled students and their teachers with instructional elements of commercial courseware. The relationship of courseware design to student independence and motivation is discussed, implications for improving courseware design are noted, and ideas for further research are suggested.…

Presents three case studies to support the claim that mechanistic groupware can improve efficiency and effectiveness in the classroom. Results indicated that the expertise of the teacher and the motivation of the students are important factors in determining the optimal mapping among students and teachers, their educational tools, and their…

Presents a study of multimedia technology used for teaching mathematics. Discussion includes tentative conclusions about the merits of different styles of multimedia; three of the most popular multimedia modules and their use; and features that seem to distinguish multimedia and computer-based lessons. (10 references) (KRN)

This guide on technology gives parents and community members an understanding of how information technology is an essential part of children's education in Vermont's schools. The first section provides an overview of technology, including: using technology to collect, share, and analyze information in ways that were impossible ten years ago:…

Discusses criteria that can be used to determine whether it would be effective to integrate computers into classroom instruction. Highlights include improving the quality of instruction; the use of appropriate courseware for difficult subjects, such as algebra and chemistry; drills and practice; improving motivation; and the role and effectiveness…

The use of microcomputers and courseware for native language instruction is discussed. Five dimensions of instruction that are helpful in evaluating microcomputer use are examined: (1) student motivation; (2) educational objectives; (3) the appropriateness of the computer and related software as instructional tools; (4) the learning model…

Discusses methods of improving the performance of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Topics addressed include the theoretical basis of ILSs; appropriate level of instruction; academic learning time; motivation; quality of instruction; a study of elementary students' use of ILSs; individualized and homogeneous group activities; mixed-ability…

This paper discusses the use of WebQuest, a World Wide Web-based multi-user game, in promoting learning motivation and navigation skills in K-9 students. WebQuest demonstrates ways to integrate games, Internet communication facilities, Web-based courseware, and database techniques together in order to assist learning. The following guidelines for…