The authors suggest the need for preservice teacher education to incorporate microcomputer technology in learning of basic instructional skills. Computer literacy should be approached in terms of classroom applications. Using the microcomputer provides immediate feedback on performance and the opportunity to vary responses and reflect on possible…

Offers suggestions for English teachers to use in selecting the best microcomputer for their needs. (FL)

The authors suggest that students with learning disabilities can profit from instruction via microcomputers. However, adaptation of the keyboard design, promotions of higher interaction levels, and emphasis on an auditory link may be necessary. The PLATO system allows auditory presentation of instructions and feedback and response via a…

The author reviews the history of the microcomputer and addresses its application needs in special education. Among needs cited are the ability to store and retrieve curriculum resource information and to develop diagnostic testing and automated test construction reporting devices. He also sees the need for software that is neither threatening nor…

A clearinghouse for information about microcomputer-based educational applications has been established at the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (NWREL). The clearinghouse, MicroSIFT (Microcomputer Software and Information for Teachers), is a central project of NWREL's Computer Technology Program. A primary concern has been the development…

This paper provides educators with a general perspective on computer literacy and an in-depth examination of the Computer Literacy Awareness Assessment conducted by the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC). Addressing computer literacy as part of the ongoing use of computers in a classroom setting is identified as the most reasonable…

Designed to answer basic questions educators have about microcomputer hardware and software and their applications in teaching, this paper describes the revolution in computer technology that has resulted from the development of the microchip processor and provides information on the major computer components; i.e.; input, central processing unit,…

This manual provides detailed instructions for using the different tools and procedures of the microcomputer painting medium developed at the University of Illinois, which enables the user to make pictures on a color TV screen. The user is in immediate and direct control of the picture-making at all times, through his use of two "paddles," buttons…

The authors view microcomputers as an important but as yet limited instructional technology. Guidelines are offered for deciding when and how computer assisted instruction should be used, emphasizing the teacher's role as decision maker and instructional manager. (Author/CL)

The article discusses the different modes of computer assisted instruction (CAI) and different types of programs available for creating microcomputer-assisted courseware for preservice and inservice education of speech and language pathologists and audiologists. Guidelines for assessing CAI courseware are provided and implications for future uses…

Describes uses of the microcomputer that can encourage the discovery that written language is meaningful, purposeful, and worthwhile. (FL)

Presents evaluation guidelines for educational software for educators with limited knowledge of computers. (MD)

The article discusses the flexibility of microcomputers in special education and presents answers to questions asked by parents and teachers on such aspects as needed training, quality of educational software, and guidelines for purchasing. A list of 25 sources of instructional courseware is included. (CL)

Special education implications of design issues in computer-assisted and computer-managed instruction are discussed. Reference is made to algorithmic and heuristic procedures, individual rate of learning, feedback, and instructional task hierarchies. (Author/CL)

This guide contains a list of commercially available microcomputer software programs for instructional use in preschool through grade 12 that has been favorably reviewed by the Educational Software Evaluation Consortium, which represents 29 organizations involved in computer education throughout North America. Only commercially available software…