A recent survey found many teachers are selecting instructional software programs without sufficient research. Outlines four areas to consider when buying instructional software. (MD)

Proposes a method for evaluating courseware as an integral part of curriculum, based both on "curriculum commonplaces" (the curriculum content and all that surrounds it) and on educational values and beliefs; an evaluative matrix is offered, with the commonplaces arrayed along one axis, values and beliefs along the other. (MCG)

The study compared two versions of a computer program designed to increase sight-word reading vocabulary with nine reading disabled students, mean age 10 years 7 months. Although both versions were equally effective in improving speech and accuracy of reading words, the version requiring typing was more effective in increasing spelling accuracy.…

Because the field of home economics has long been dominated by females, concern has often been expressed that many of the audiovisual materials available for use in home economics classes are also female dominated; in an age when both males and females have equal access to home economics classes, this is a major concern. In addition, with the…

Evaluates 5 courseware packages covering the topics of simple harmonic motion, 7 packages for wave motion, and 10 packages for sound. Discusses the price range, sub-topics, program type, interaction, time, calculus required, graphics, and comments of each courseware. Selects several packages based on the criteria. (YP)

Presents reviews of three software packages. Includes "Cube Builder: A 3-D Geometry Tool," which allows students to build three-dimensional shapes; "Number Master," a multipurpose practice program for whole number computation; and "Safari Search: Problem Solving and Inference," which focuses on decision making in mathematical analysis. (PK)