Presents an instructional unit in which grade 6 students used PFS:File to create a computerized database containing information about many countries. Six lessons are described: (1) introduction to a database; (2) selecting topics for the database form; (3) designing forms; (4) beginning research; (5) adding files; and (6) retrieving information.…

Presents a computer-assisted activity that helps students discover the importance of choosing words carefully. With a word processing program, small groups of students prepare creative, fill-in-the-blank challenges in which classmates must replace missing adjectives or verbs. (SM)

Australian researchers examined a computer adventure game's potential to provide worthwhile learning experiences by videotaping elementary students at play. Results indicated students learned about computers, read, had fun, and solved problems, but the game did not meet specified criteria for a worthwhile educational experience. (SM)

Language arts skills and writing projects can be combined with activities that teach the fundamentals of word processing to improve the language arts curriculum. Suggested lessons cover five writing and editing operations common to most word processing software. (DF)

Reviews two recent articles on computer use in the English classroom. Discusses ways that word processing programs for microcomputers can be used to teach revision. Identifies the equipment and software requirements for using the approach and discusses practical benefits. (DMM)

Microcomputer simulation games are discussed and are viewed as being of the same nature as traditional imitation and role-playing activities. Some aspects of six commercially available games that could be used in computer assisted instruction (CAI) are reviewed. All examples chosen were among those thought to emphasize positive attitudes. (MP)

Describes the use of microcomputers and text editing functions in a remedial writing course. Presents survey results showing generally positive student responses to using text editing. Sees microcomputers as enhancing students' writing abilities and self-esteem. (DMM)

Describes how a word processor helped children with reading and writing difficulties to improve their language skills. Concludes that the computer can be a powerful tool for learning. (FL)

Six teachers who won microcomputers in a contest sponsored by "Instructor" report on their first year with the new machines. Computer programs and related class activities are discussed. (PP)

Along with cost, and hence availability of hardware and quality educational courseware, the major barrier to full implementation of microcomputers is the lack of knowledge possessed by researchers and educational practitioners alike regarding the nature of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes a teacher must have to successfully use microcomputers…

Describes a practical approach to using a microcomputer for controlling a random access audio device for providing flexible interactive practice in foreign language listening comprehension. The audio passages available at a given point in a lesson are determined by the lesson author and can include hints, translations, cultural notes, and slower…

Describes an activity for elementary school students that allows them to manipulate computer hardware. College students volunteered as trainers; and two workstations were used, one to teach students how to attach peripheral devices (e.g., keyboard, monitor, and printer) and one to teach how to remove a disk drive and the controller card. (LRW)

Describes computer simulation programs that take elementary and secondary students exploring. One has students act as Magellan commanding his ship to reinforce history, geography, decision-making, and resource management skills. Another has students use problem-solving skills to venture across oceans and find trading routes to the Orient. (SM)

This paper presents a three-phase model of how formative evaluation research can inform the design of educational computer software products. Used as an illustrative case is a program of formative research conducted on "The Talking Clock," a computer assisted instructional software product designed to help children in kindergarten through second…

This 3-month investigation of changes in teaching and learning behaviors as microcomputers and computer literacy are integrated into the curriculum involved nine primary teachers (Mahopac Central School District, New York) in grades 1 to 3, who had received training in the use of microcomputers and in Logo. Each teacher implemented the same…