Discusses the main categories of instructional software, including drill/practice, tutorials, simulation/problem solving, games, and management, along with factors involved in their design. (Author/MBR)

Presents specific guidelines for designing instructional programs that will be delivered on microcomputers so that these programs will use the capacity of the microcomputer system in a way that will develop in learners a range of cognitive skills and help learners to evolve useful learning strategies. (Author)

Summarizes advantages and disadvantages of using computer-assisted instruction for library skills instruction and describes seven steps for developing a program for use in an academic library setting: (1) needs assessment; (2) objectives; (3) program language selection; (4) hardware selection; (5) writing the program(s); (6) feedback and…

Before schools purchase computer hardware and software, the district should set goals for their use, establish effective teacher training, and determine a realistic schoolwide implementation plan.(MD)

This simulated interaction between a human and a microcomputer is presented as an example of one way in which a computer could be used to report data and results from research studies on particular topics in school librarianship. A brief discussion of the example is included. (JL)

Describes an analysis of the possibilities open to the designer of class teaching materials based on the use of a microcomputer. Program design and use are related to the facilities the computer offers, aspects of teaching to which they contribute, and to the problems of making materials easy to use. (Author/CHC)

Hypermedia allows students to follow associative links among elements of nonsequential information, by combining information from multiple sources into one microcomputer-controlled system. Hypermedia products help teachers create lessons integrating text, motion film, color graphics, speech, and music, by linking such electronic devices as…

This review of videodisc technology and its potential for use in conjunction with microcomputers in the development of interactive instructional systems includes: a brief discussion of the background and current state-of-the-art of videodisc technology; a review of videodisc formats and the costs and advantages of particular formats in the…

Examines characteristics of the successful computer assisted instruction (CAI) author, including knowledge required and time for planning, developing, and testing. Obstacles to successful teacher-author are described, including need for extensive training and uninterrupted free time. An alternative approach of teamwork between computer…

Describes a framework for introducing micro-based computer cartography into college-level courses. The discussion centers on hardware, software, practical considerations, and snags. (RM)

Basic assumptions about instruction must be established, and cooperation between a subject expert, instructional designer, evaluator, and computer applications person is needed to develop a computer managed instruction (CMI) system. Although development costs are high, educational improvement and the changing nature of instruction from lockstep to…

Reviews reasons for the decision to change from a timeshare minicomputer to microcomputers, financial considerations involved, the purchase of hardware, the problem posed by the lack of compatible software for the microcomputers, and the development of the Assisted Instructional Development System (AIDS) for adapting minicomputer software and…

Describes the use of a computerized spreadsheet technique to assist in the front-end analysis phase of an instructional design project in an industrial training program. The use of a microcomputer is explained as a decision-making aid to analyze, select, and sequence instructional goals and objectives and to develop criterion performance measures.…

"New Things Considered" reports on emerging trends and issues in education to policymakers and participants in SEDL-SCAN, an emerging issues tracking system being pilot tested by the Southwest Educational Development Laboratory's Policy Information Service and the State of New Mexico. This issue presents brief summaries of the thinking…

This practicum was designed to initiate the use of databases in an elementary setting. The primary goal was to establish a workable method to incorporate the use of databases and instruct teachers on how to use a sophisticated computer application. The peripheral goal was to transmit the newly-learned skills of the teacher to the students. A…