Discusses the use of computer simulations in an instructional context and emphasizes the need for learner support. The SIMULATE project (Simulation Authoring Tools Environment) is described, the concept of intelligent simulation learning environments (ISLEs) is explained, and a conceptual framework for articles included in this issue is presented.…

Describes studies conducted at a French university to evaluate microcomputer software used in computer assisted instruction. Results of questionnaires completed by a sample of 150 students in beginning computing courses are analyzed to determine how such courseware can be improved, and evaluation versus validation is discussed. (LRW)

Describes how informatics is being integrated into the Bulgarian schools' curriculum through the use of microcomputers, Logo, and appropriate software. A set of problems that could be used for introducing informatics is presented which is based on the programming notions of cycle, recursion, and coding. (LRW)

Reports data from 1970, 1978, and 1990 surveys conducted in Norway to determine teacher attitudes toward new information and communication technologies (NICT). The aims of the study were to describe the main trends in changes in teachers' attitudes and find some of the reasons behind the changes. (15 references) (LAE)

Discussion of inservice teacher education focuses on a program in London designed to develop the use of computers in primary schools. Topics discussed include objectives of the program; courses for advisory staff, educational administrators, and politicians; parents' meetings; user groups; and a program newsletter. (LRW)

Discusses the history of educational computing in England, which started about 1970 when the government-funded Microelectronics Education Programme began. The Programme's main areas of activity are outlined and the role of the Council for Educational Technology in these activity areas is described. (Author/MBR)

Discusses teacher training in computer studies in Austria with both limited computer resources and adequate resources. The Austrian education system is explained, a history of computer literacy programs is given, and teacher training in universities is described as well as inservice training programs. (three references) (LRW)

Describes a new approach to teaching computer science students through the use of workshops that was developed at Sunderland Polytechnic (England). The course structure is explained, workshops' content and organization are described, an example of a workshop is given, and student and staff reactions are discussed. (11 references) (LRW)

Reports on two aspects of the SIMULATE (Simulation Authoring Tools Environment) project: an account of the learning processes that are involved in learning with computer simulations, and an inventory of learner attributes. Topics discussed include ISLEs (intelligent simulation learning environments), prior knowledge, motivation, cognitive style,…

Discusses the effectiveness of classroom trials as a method of providing feedback in the development process for educational software. The impact of formative evaluation on the development of computer-assisted learning (CAL) by a team is discussed, criteria for software selection are described, and steps toward successful implementation are…

Describes experiences of the Research Group on Education (RGE) at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and the Ministry of Education in using limited computer resources when teaching informatics. Topics discussed include group projects; the use of Logo; ability grouping; and out-of-class activities, including publishing a pupils' magazine. (13…

Summarizes the current status of the use of microcomputers in elementary and secondary schools in the Federal Republic of Germany. Curriculum development and research about computer science are described, the roles of technological advancement and education in economic advancement are discussed, and comparisons are made with other industrialized…

Reviews the use of computers to support distance learning in the multimedia teaching system of the British Open University from 1980-90. Topics addressed include hardware, courses using computers, software developments, the move to microcomputers, access, authoring tools, home-based computing, funding, and the outlook for the future. (15…

Introduction of microcomputer technology into Israeli elementary schools in the 1980s resulted in a need for national policy for teachers' education and support, guidelines for computer-assisted instruction and staff development, and planning for equipment budgets and standards. This paper focuses on issues of integration of educational…

Three articles discuss various aspects of computers in elementary education: (1) the use of electronic information services with elementary students in Maryland; (2) the introduction of computers into classrooms with students aged 10-12 in Switzerland; and (3) the use of microcomputer-based simulation in the United Kingdom to encourage…