Discussion of computer-assisted learning (CAL) and the instructional functions of audio highlights the development of an interactional audio-CAL system used for second-language learning. Levels of interactivity in media are discussed, hardware that would add audio to a CAL system is described, and future research is suggested. (10 references) (LRW)

Arguing that educators may be facing their greatest challenge in decades as they seek to integrate critical thinking techniques into the computer-assisted instruction (CAI) environment, this paper discusses the crucial importance of critical thinking and explores some potential adverse effects of CAI in this area. A brief historic overview of…

Describes a study that was conducted to monitor the eye movement behaviors of microcomputer users working with an instructional game under varying color conditions. Eye movement is discussed; the computer software is explained; and implications of the results for further research and for courseware designers are suggested. (21 references) (LRW)

Briefly reviews current research on the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and microcomputers. The Hawthorne Effect and research results for elementary, secondary, and college level students are discussed, courseware requirements are described, and research studies showing positive and negative effects of CAI are listed. (LRW)

Describes study that was carried out at the University of Calgary to determine how elementary school children conceive of computer-related tasks and how this information might be used to generate animated icons for educational software. Child-computer interaction is discussed, and differences in responses between three age groups are examined. (10…

Presents guidelines for determining when interactive courseware requiring single-keypress responses (multiple choice answers) and constructed responses (typed-in answers) are appropriate for use in the classroom. Research findings of studies concerned with these response types are briefly discussed, and needs for further research are outlined.…

This survey of authoring languages that are used in computer-assisted instruction (CAI) highlights recent developments in Macintosh authoring languages and discusses their use in courseware development. CAI effectiveness is defined, advantages and disadvantages of CAI are described, and future research needs are suggested. (27 references) (LRW)

Discusses the effectiveness of classroom trials as a method of providing feedback in the development process for educational software. The impact of formative evaluation on the development of computer-assisted learning (CAL) by a team is discussed, criteria for software selection are described, and steps toward successful implementation are…

This study examined ways in which microcomputers are used in schools and the complex issues that surround their implementation. Three fictional geographically distinct school districts with a diversity of microcomputer applications at both the elementary and secondary levels were studied: Salerno, a large southern city; Granite, a midwestern city;…

Reports the results of a survey of library schools that examined the current use of microcomputers and computer-assisted instruction in the teaching of online searching. The need for a methodology to test the effectiveness of these instructional methods is discussed. (9 references) (CLB)

Describes and compares 12 microcomputer-based authority languages and systems that are being marketed to elementary and secondary school teachers to assist them in developing their own courseware for computer-assisted instruction. Evaluation criteria are reviewed, and future development and research needs are discussed. (Author/LRW)

The opening address from CALICO '87 in Monterey, California, compares the potential of computer-assisted language instruction (CALI) as claimed in the 70s to the realities of CALI now. Discusses the language proficiency levels best suited for applications of CALI as it now exists. Enumerates six challenges for CALI. (LMO)

Describes results of a survey of the use of computer-assisted learning (CAL) in distance education in Australia. Highlights include subject areas that use CAL; software specifications; types of hardware used; students' and instructors' perceptions of computer usage; and suggestions for further research. (13 references) (LRW)

Discussion of graphing software for educational purposes focuses on a study in which three versions of an original computer graphing program were used by inner-city high school students to solve scientific data analysis problems. Variations in degrees of flexibility and feedback in the software are explored. (Contains 37 references.) (LRW)

Describes current government projects and expenditures that promote the growth of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in Taiwan schools, and contrasts CAI efforts in Taiwan with those in the United States. Topics discussed include teacher training; courseware development; the development of a Chinese language authoring system; and problems and…