Briefly discusses the important criteria by which microcomputer programs intended for instructional use should be evaluated, presents a series of guidelines for submitting reviews of computer programs developed for instructional purposes (courseware), and provides a copy of the Curriculum Review Courseware Evaluation Form. (JL)

This guide developed by MicroSIFT, a clearinghouse for microcomputer-based educational software and courseware, provides background information and forms to aid teachers and other educators in evaluating available microcomputer courseware. The evaluation process comprises four stages: (1) sifting, which screens out those programs that are not…

Guidelines for selecting/buying educational software are discussed under the following headings: educational soundness; appropriateness; challenge and progress; motivation and reward; correctness; compatibility with systems; instructions and handlings. Includes several sources of software reviews. (JN)

This guide suggests processes for making informed software selection, describes several prominent software evaluation models, raises key issues in the software selection process, and provides information on a variety of print and organizational resources. The first section, featuring an article by Henry F. Olds, Jr., "Evaluating the…

Presents questions teachers should ask themselves to determine whether they need a gradebook program and questions to consider when deciding what type of gradebook program package to select. (MBR)

Guidelines and steps for reviewing and selecting computerized instructional materials are reviewed. (MP)

This guide addresses the applicability of microcomputers to adult vocational training and presents guidelines for creating and evaluating software that specifically addresses adult learning needs. The author first discusses the appropriateness of microcomputers as educational and prevocational tools. She highlights those qualities that are the…

It is argued that software evaluation is the key to the acquisition of successful microcomputer programs for community college reading/writing centers, but that currently available evaluation forms are not adequate for this task. Following a brief discussion of the problems related to these forms, a detailed list of general guidelines for…

This guide gives step-by-step directions for authoring computer-assisted instruction materials as well as advice on planning, designing, coding, documenting, and evaluating computer assisted courseware. The importance of prospective courseware designers having a sound background in both educational theory and practice is also discussed, and…

This conference presentation outlines some of the important factors for teachers to consider when selecting software and hardware to be used as teaching tools in the vocational education classroom and as a means for teaching about the occupational applications of microcomputers. Addressed in a discussion of methods and criteria for evaluating…