This paper discusses the types of computer software that are most effective in a classroom. Detailed descriptions are given of: (1) drill and practice programs; (2) tutorials; (3) simulations; and (4) games and problem-solving software. The effectiveness of each is discussed as well as the characteristics of a good program of its genre. An example…

The Learning Activity Packets (LAPs) contained in this manual are designed to assist the beginning user in understanding DOS (Disk Operating System). LAPs will not work with any version below DOS Version 3.0 and do not address the enhanced features of versions 4.0 or higher. These elementary activities cover only the DOS commands necessary to…

Intended for children from kindergarten through the sixth grade, this booklet teaches about the computer and provides instruction in computer programming in the BASIC language. Thirteen sequential lessons are provided to encourage independent study. Each lesson consists of a set of four pages and explains a BASIC command or statement, presents…

Reviews user-adaptable learning games that can be customized for any subject, including Tic Tac Show and the Game Show from Computer Advanced Ideas, which are question-answer learning programs based on game shows, and Master Match from Computer Advanced Ideas and Square Pairs from Scholastic Inc., which are based on the card game Concentration.…

Describes a computer activity (for Apple II) showing junior high students with some programing experience how to make words/letters in original programed poetry move on the computer screen (and gives practice using simple arrays, FOR..NEXT loops, and DATA statements). Includes the complete activity which can be duplicated for classroom use. (JN)

Three-Key Logo is a useful method for introducing young children to Logo because it does not require numbers skills and eliminates typing slow-down. Briefly outlines the method and provides an exercise which may be duplicates for classroom use. (JN)

Stressed is a conceptual approach to absolute value, based on the visualization of the graphs of absolute-value equations. An important by-product is predicting a graph on the basis of certain constraints. Four worksheets plus teacher comments are included. (MNS)

Making Cryptograms is designed to give middle grade students practice in using the FIND and REPLACE features on their word processors. An activity sheet (which may be duplicated for class use) is provided. Instructional strategies are also provided. (JN)

Presents two lesson plans for use when introducing computerized spreadsheet programs to high school students and discusses behavioral objectives, necessary equipment, teacher preparation, and learning activities for each lesson. Student handouts for use with the lessons are included. (MBR)

Describes a study conducted with six pupils using Apple II Plus microcomputers and LOGO to determine whether five year olds can perform simple computer programing. This report describes the introductory educational games and activities, the pre- and posttests, some general findings, and possible implications for the teaching of problem-solving…

Describes five statistical simulation programs developed at Wichita State University--Coin Flip and Raindrop, which demonstrate the binomial, Poisson, and other related distributions; Optimal Search; QSIM; and RANDEV, a random deviate generation program. Advantages of microcomputers over mainframes and the educational uses of models are noted.…

Activities focus on the use of computers as an instructional tool. Three worksheets provide experiences with: perimeter and areas of squares; area of parallelograms and triangles; and properties of triangles. A Logo computer program is included. (MNS)

Provides instructor's guide and participant materials for a workshop introducing LOGO. It includes background information on LOGO, introduction to graphics and commands, its utilization to teach geometry, defining and editing procedures, subprocedures, differences between linear chaining and block style programing, and using LOGO to print and…

Describes a computer curriculum for 7- to 12-year-old children which is designed to integrate the computer into multiple subject areas and stimulate the development and sharpening of critical-thinking skills. The course is divided into eight conceptual units, each containing educational computer games or simulations and some related off-line…

Suggests that the availability and application of good software for microcomputers enhances college teaching methods. Argues that, in population geography classes, spreadsheet programs are especially useful; they are easy to learn and are well suited for manipulating numbers representing demographic variables. Gives a sample template and macro for…