Describes a study that investigated color combination preferences of three- to six-year-olds performing a simple perceptual task on a microcomputer screen. Comparisons with Swedish research are made, implications for the production of educational materials for young children are discussed, and suggestions for further research are made. (10…

Discusses development and use of Open Learning Institute's computerized course development and production systems which solved some of the inherent problems in course writing. A network of microcomputers which facilitates preparation of production-ready manuscripts and course authoring templates constructed from word processing software is…

Discusses functions of the Alberta (Canada) Computer Technology Project's courseware clearinghouse, reviews findings on instructional software quality, identifies software development trends, and discusses need for support systems to facilitate the incorporation of computer assisted instruction in Canadian schools. (MBR)

Presents a case study of Sainsbury's, a United Kingdom food retailer who adopted innovations in retail technology and whose resulting training needs were met in part through open learning technology. Highlights include networked personal computers, course materials created by trainers, and implications for higher education. (LRW)

Perhaps the most significant development in microcomputer technology over the last two years has been the development of desktop publishing techniques. This technology promises to offer some significant advantages to institutions developing instructional materials in less developed countries, particularly in terms of control, cost effectiveness,…

Describes the general elements of the National Plan for Microcomputers in Scottish schools, a plan devised by the Scottish Microelectronic Development Programme, which stresses national standardization of computer systems for compatibility of software and communication links and development of national software application packages. (MBR)

A project was conducted to increase the use of microcomputers in basic adult education in Australia. The aims of the project were as follows: to establish an information network of practitioners working within Australia's Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system who have an interest in using computer-assisted learning in basic adult…

Illustrates some of the practical issues and problems connected with the design and use of computerized business games by describing three games which have been developed and operated by staff at Leeds Polytechnic Department of Business Management (United Kingdom). Sample input and output forms are included. (nine references) (LRW)

This newsletter describes development projects that utilize varied media, including microcomputers, videotape, and print materials, and discusses development communications issues. Specific articles are as follows: "Microcomputers for Education in the Developing World" (Kurt D. Moses); "Social Marketing: Two Views, Two…

Describes the development of a microcomputer simulation program that uses a fictional country to teach students about societal processes in developing nations. The discussion covers design objectives, the design process, and further possibilities for this type of simulation. (CLB)

Describes use of Canada's videotex system, Telidon, for instructional purposes and cites limitations in Telidon software and its high cost as reasons for the development and testing of an interactive microcomputer-based course authoring and presentation system called VITAL. VITAL's design is described and its implications for instructors are…

This nine-paper collection from a June 1983 Open University (OU) campus workshop in Milton Keynes, England, describes an interactive video project developed for an OU undergraduate course, T252, Introduction to Engineering Materials, and discusses varied aspects of interactive videodisc program development. The following papers are included:…

A report on a two-year study of the use of microcomputers in language arts programs in Ontario provides information on the following topics: background and orientation of the study; project goals and methods; summary of needs and recommendations from the first year of the study; results from the second year; and general recommendations. The study…

Describes major program activities of Microelectronics Education Programme (MEP) for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, which is designed to help schools prepare children for society with microelectronics. The core elements and potential consequences of the Microelectronics Support Unit, a follow-up to MEP which will conclude activities in…

Discussion of problems encountered in educational software development in Japan is the second of a two-part series on evaluation of Japanese microcomputer-based software. Problems associated with content, learner attitude, and graphics presentation are described, and future challenges in simulation and integrating courseware with other teaching…