Advantages of having children use microcomputers at school and home include learning about sophisticated concepts early in life without a great deal of prodding, playing games that expand knowledge, and becoming literate in computer knowledge needed later in life. Includes comments from parents on their experiences with microcomputers and…

Elementary school children need hands-on experiences to understand science concepts. Computers can be used to store and analyze data collected by students, but educators seem to agree that students need to manipulate data themselves to really comprehend their discoveries. (DF)

Outlines Component Design Theory, which is based on the author's earlier Component Display Theory, and provides the instructional design guidance needed for experiential computer based instructional systems. Highlights include a contrast between tutorial and experiential instructional models, content structures, consistency rules, instructional…

Describes the Monthly Data Grapher, a microcomputer program which helps visualize data to discern patterns and which is suitable for use with elementary school children. Some of its uses are noted and the microcomputer program itself is included. (MBR)

The article presents technology projects that provide real-life reasons for students to learn geography. A variety of online networks take students on online field trips, linking them with scientists, zoologists, archaeologists, and explorers. Other interactive software is available to simulate trips to various locations around the world. (SM)

After receiving a state grant to buy telecommunications equipment, high school students in two Detroit-area schools communicate across racial boundaries using computers and fax machines. The "Connections" program was developed to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on joint research projects and reports. (SM)

Describes the development of a project to disseminate information about and provide hands-on experience with personal computers through classes and workshops for both adults and children at the Menlo Park Public Library. Funding and implementation are discussed, as well as how such projects can be started by other libraries. (BK)

This study examined relationships between learning style and computer-assisted discovery learning. Secondary students used computer-assisted instruction (CAI) to learn biology under three discovery learning circumstances. The main factor affecting the effectiveness of learning was students' initial acquisition of biology. Learning style and type…

Business educators must provide students with microcomputer training to enable them to become productive upon entry into the work force. Implementation of a diversified mini/microcomputer network in the educational environment will provide these students with the needed practical experience. (CH)

States the objectives and implementation procedures for this teacher-directed or individualized learning discovery unit. Describes the value of the program and additional activities that can be included. Shows a copy of the program. (RT)

Discusses the benefits of five short science courses offered to middle school age children and their parents. Reports on the participants' reactions, two to three years after taking the courses, to the course experiences, the influence of the courses on learning behavior, and the relationship between the parents and their children. (TW)

Presents a collection of 100 creative teaching ideas from educators nationwide. The suggestions cover across-the-curriculum teaching tips for language arts, math, science, and social studies; tips on classroom management, cooperative learning, computers, thinking skills, and self-esteem. A bonus page for students is included. (SM)

Investigates the use of personal computer (PC) programs to help participants in simulation exercises transform their experiences into knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Six programs developed at Queensland Institute of Technology are described that involve operations management, strategic management, and macroeconomics. Examples of spreadsheets are…

The Randolph, New Jersey Intermediate School updated its industrial arts program to reflect the challenges and work force of the Twentieth Century in which students apply a design/problem-solving process to solve real-world problems. In the laboratory portion of the program, students circulate between workstations to define problems, complete…

Discusses computer programs and courses offered to children and teachers at the new Future Center at the Capital Children's Museum, and describes the displays and activities of the communications exhibit and Kid-Net, a minicomputer based time-sharing system for which a series of computer programs for use by visitors will be developed. (RBF)