Describes implementation, support, and evaluation of computer assisted learning (CAL) projects at three universities: Project Athena at Massachusetts Institute of Technology; the Andrew network at Carnegie Mellon University; and a project at Stanford University. Topics discussed include work stations, microcomputers, computer networks, graphics,…

Summarizes development of QUEST, a family of general purpose data handling computer programs which support existing curricula; demonstrates their usefulness for administrative recordkeeping and in elementary school history and geography courses for managing large amounts of data from varied sources (i.e., census materials); and compares QUEST with…

Factors which may impede or promote development of computer assisted instruction are identified through interviews with teachers to ascertain attitudes and learn how computer experience had been gained, visiting a school to track computer usage, and recording first experiences of computer software use in classrooms. Suggestions for initiation…

Describes a spreadsheet system that enables students, teachers, and curriculum developers to use Microsoft EXCEL's database and graphics capabilities in the science classroom. System design goals are explained, examples of system applications are given, and possible future developments are discussed. (15 references) (LRW)

Describes the design and development of inservice teacher education courses on application of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in art classrooms, and summarizes participating teachers' opinions on educational value of computer software and peripheral equipment for specific art applications to which they were introduced during the session. (MBR)

Documents the educational use of spreadsheets through a description of exploratory work which utilizes spreadsheets to achieve the objectives of Conway's Game of Life, a scientific method game for the development of problem-solving techniques. The implementation and classroom use of the spreadsheet programs are discussed. (MBR)

Discusses the state of desktop publishing (DTP) in education today and describes the weaknesses of the systems available for use in the classroom. Highlights include document design and layout; text composition; graphics; word processing capabilities; a comparison of commercial and educational DTP packages; and skills required for DTP. (four…

Presents results from an exhaustive survey of Hertfordshire (England) primary schools which provides detailed information on microcomputer provision, classroom use, and headteachers' and teachers' aims and attitudes. An analysis of factors that influence microcomputer use is included. (Author/MBR)

Describes the Technical Literacy Project which was developed at the University of Nottingham to examine and compare the computer literacy skills of graduating secondary school students and industry workers. The use of Macintosh computers and HyperCard software is explained; gender differences are examined; and results showing better performances…