Describes study that evaluated 16 software packages representing all grade levels against 19 criteria based on principles of effective learning and teaching. Implications of the results for the development of effective instructional software and its use are discussed, and the evaluation form used is included in the appendix. (21 references) (LRW)

Discusses research evidence for not including microcomputers in preschool environments; develops a theoretical base favoring computer use in early childhood that includes views of Papert, Piaget, Erikson, and competence development; and offers directions for software development through a review and description of successful microworld programs.…

Describes a study that measured preschoolers' use of microcomputers in the following areas: (1) efficiency of use of input devices, including the keyboard, the joystick, and the mouse; (2) use during free-play activities, including interaction with the microcomputer and with each other; and (3) gender differences. (40 references) (LRW)

Describes study that investigated whether the use of LOGO accelerates cognitive development of five- and seven-year-old kindergarten students as measured by Piagetian-based tests of conservation of length, number, and ability to identify geometric shapes. Pretests and posttests are described and directions for future research are given.…

Discusses epistemological issues involved in the use of qualitative methods to assess classroom-based microcomputer programs, specifically Apple Computer's "Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow." Six models of qualitative data design and use are examined: anecdotal, structured observations, case study, multisite case study, ethnography, and…

Comparison of various evaluation forms and reviews used to evaluate instructional software focuses on the criteria used in their assessments, and the usefulness and appropriateness of these criteria for making instructional decisions. Highlights include forms developed by national organizations, and reviews and awards appearing in scholarly…

Describes study that was conducted to investigate the effects of sex and school level on the computer anxiety of rural middle school and secondary school students when home availability and school use of computers were controlled. Use of the Computer Anxiety Scale is described, and implications for computer implementation are suggested. (34…

Exploration of concepts crucial to development of new computer-based learning environments focuses on process rather than product and the computer's ability to record, represent, and communicate the underlying process. Cognitive, pedagogical, and sociological issues relevant to creation of learning environments in five domains (empowering…

Describes study of junior high school students in Israel that tested the effectiveness of microcomputer-based software designed to shape students' intuitions in the understanding of graphs of quantitative relationships. Retention and integration of microcomputer activities are discussed, and treatments for the experimental and control groups are…

A study of the effects of microcomputer use in classrooms and homes on the growth of school-readiness skills of kindergartners used pre- and posttested experimental and control groups to assess reading readiness, mathematics readiness, Piagetian operations, and keyboard knowledge. Teacher implementation strategies and techniques used by nonreaders…

Discusses the systems thinking approach that uses microcomputer-based simulations and modeling to enhance teaching and learning activities in middle school and high school instruction. Particular focus is placed on the Systems Thinking and Curriculum Innovation Network project, part of a longitudinal study managed by Educational Testing Service.…

Describes study that was conducted with fifth graders to investigate the effects of Logo instruction on three measures of cognitive style: divergent thinking, field dependence/independence, and impulsivity/reflectivity. Treatments of the experimental and control groups are explained, and results of pretests and posttests are analyzed. (11…

Describes study that was conducted to determine whether four- and five-year-old preschoolers could be taught reading skills with computer-assisted instruction, and whether they could learn basic computer literacy skills without direct instruction and drill. Software is described, and the pretest/posttest single group design is explained. (16…

Reports the results of the U.S. portion of a 1989 survey of elementary and secondary schools conducted by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) that focused on school and teacher practices in using microcomputers. Highlights include hardware, instructional uses, goals for computer use, and software…

Examines the effects of such variables as socioeconomic status (SES), school size, grade span, type of computer, and student to computer ratio on the implementation of microcomputers. Analysis of a random sample of 128 elementary schools indicates that SES and student to computer ratio have the strongest impact on implementation. (Author/LRW)