The Alcohol Metabolism Program, a computer program used to compute peak blood alcohol levels, is expanded upon to include a cover page, brief introduction, and techniques for generalizing the program to calculate peak levels for any number of drinks. (DF)

Arguing that the production system for computer courseware has a strong impact on quality courseware development, this report offers an introduction into the relationships between instructional system design and software engineering, and investigates courseware quality as a means of identifying quality enhancement factors that can make the…

This paper explores three components of academic computing--programming, productivity tools, and computer-based education--by reviewing the past, evaluating the present, and considering the future possibilities of the field. It is suggested that the future growth of academic computing depends upon the resolution of a number of issues: (1)…

Discusses topics and issues related to (1) international impact of microcomputers; (2) minimum guidelines for software development; (3) achieving minimum standards; and (4) accomplishments in the areas of introductory chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and physical chemistry. Challenges for the future are noted. (JN)

Explains how language teachers can write their own microcomputer-based language programs in BASIC, using an example in German. Commercial software packages are discussed, and step-by-step directions are given for creating student exercises and for determining student scores and grades. (LRW)

Discussion of the social role that computers play in the classroom focuses on an empirical study of human-computer interaction. Classes of high school and undergraduate students are described that were chosen to examine interactivity patterns among students with significantly different social characteristics. (11 references) (LRW)

Analyzes three major approaches to the use of computers in education: (1) drill and practice; (2) tutorial, and (3) simulation and programing. Courseware for each approach is discussed, educational philosophy and types of knowledge are described, the effect of computers on learning processes is examined, and 114 references are provided. (LRW)

Discusses the use of pre-Logo microworlds for elementary school children and describes developments that are being made to alleviate problems encountered in classroom implementation of the microworlds. Highlights include tutorial support; a menu-driven user interface appropriate for young children; effectiveness of new learner support features;…

Two papers describe the roles of the Software Development Group (SDG) and the Software Review Center (SRC) at Drexel University. The first paper covers the primary role of the SDG, which is designed to assist Drexel faculty with the technical design and programming of courseware for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer; the relationship of the SDG…

Briefly outlines a four-point plan to help integrate microcomputers into foreign language curriculums and discusses two alternative ways to build a software library: use of authoring systems and creating in-house software that teachers can adapt for drill-and-practice and tutorials. (MBR)

Suggests programming structures of computer assisted instruction for teaching severely learning disabled students be related to an established educational model. Use of performance contoured programming (PCP), based upon behavioral model of precision teaching, is discussed and contrasted with cognitive programming approaches. PCP applications and…

Examines capabilities of the computer as a tool for bibliographic instruction; how librarians can utilize the computers; and the effects of microcomputers on bibliographic instruction librarians. Three approaches to writing computer-assisted instruction (CAI) programs (CAI authoring system, special purpose CAI language, general purpose computer…

Advantages of using the microcomputer as an interactive electronic blackboard are discussed, and programs and programming techniques are described to illustrate the construction, design, storage, and modification of colorful and animated graphic displays. The methods described are based on use of an Atari 800 microcomputer but could be used on…

Reviews the use of microcomputers by students and faculty at Reed College, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon, Drexel University, and Brown University. Types of computers provided and software developed on each campus are described, and a business developed to promote the distribution of software between colleges--the Academic Courseware…

A research program was undertaken to study the functional learning environment (FLE) in which computers operate, i.e., those environments in which learning activities have a function or purpose from the child's viewpoint. Results of three projects illustrate the importance of teachers in creating and interpreting children's learning environments.…