This article addresses questions associated with computers: Are they advantageous in the classroom? Do they help children learn? How can teachers learn more about them? Suggests guidelines for teachers learning about computers, listing books and ERIC documents for further investigation. (MP)

Shows teachers who use language experience activities in their classrooms how to use microcomputers efficiently to increase students' reading and writing experiences. (RL)

Examines why computers are used less often in classrooms than in other organizations; suggests that technological innovations have never been central to national school improvement movements, and that the dominant cultural belief about teaching, learning, and proper knowledge and about the way schools are organized for instruction inhibits…

The author provides an introduction to microcomputers in the schools by answering the type of questions a teacher without computer background might ask such as "What is a computer?"; "What is a microcomputer?"; "How can I teach children to program?" (SJL)

Presents ideas to help teachers make one-computer classrooms work. Suggestions include making sure the teacher masters the computer, managing computer time, using keyboarding strategies (such as photocopied keyboards for practice), and using time-saving techniques (e.g., previewing programs, pooling resources, and treating computers with care).…

The viability of interactive video as a method of individualizing instruction was studied using classroom management situations dealing with cheating as the program content. Students completing the program were to select the correct statement about the observed student behavior in brief video scenes, the teacher action appropriate to that…

This guide offers planning and organizing ideas for effectively using computers in classrooms that include students both with and without disabilities. The guide addresses: developing lesson plans, introducing the lesson in a way that builds motivation, providing guided and independent practice, extending the learning, and choosing software.…

Despite rapid advancements in educational technology, postsecondary teaching methods remain remarkably traditional. However, the microcomputer has emerged as a powerful tool that is transforming what and how students learn, both inside and outside the classroom. (Author/MSE)

Discusses the introduction of one microcomputer into a fourth grade classroom to assist learners in achieving the goals already established by the teacher. Programs used were SPEED DRILL, for drill and practice of basic arithmetic with varying difficulty and speed, and CRITICAL READING, a program for logical thinking and comprehension. (EAO)

This guide focuses on the use of computers and cooperative learning techniques in classrooms that include students with disabilities. The guide outlines the characteristics of cooperative learning such as goal interdependence, individual accountability, and heterogeneous groups, emphasizing the value of each group member. Several cooperative…

Four colleagues at Idaho State University describe how they used the DACUM (Developing A Curriculum) process to figure out what microcomputer competencies vocational educators need. Competencies include developing a personal plan for microcomputer competency; integrating computer-based instruction (CBI) into the vocational curriculum; planning,…

This report outlines the information needed for educators to begin using new multimedia educational technology in classroom instruction. The report describes the procedures used by educators from Bloomington (Minnesota) Schools (District #271) to incorporate HyperCard, interactive video, microcomputers, and other multimedia educational equipment…

This report contains the rationale for and results of a study investigating computer integration in the primary grades. The study encompassed functions and purposes of computer use, the subjects and programs currently in classroom use, and the extent of microcomputer use by student and teacher. Sources of investigation included published…

Reviews research on effective teacher characteristics and generalizes them to effective microcomputer instruction. Characteristics discussed include allocating adequate time for academic tasks, curriculum pacing, providing supportive and efficient learning environments, use of group management procedures, teaching skills before drill and practice,…

An intensive study of nine elementary classrooms over a three-month period was conducted to analyze the extent to which teaching and learning behaviors change when computers are used for instruction. Findings are reported for both directive (computer-assisted instruction) and interactive (programing) learning experiences. (TE)