Outlines evaluation criteria that may be used to determine the usefulness of science education computer software. Factors to be considered are identified as the nature of the investigation, advantages of the program over a laboratory investigation, number and types of higher order thinking skills required, concepts related to inquiry, and the…

The main aim of this paper is to demonstrate that new and highly effective computer-based learning tools can be designed by adhering to a simple principle: Good learning tools conform to and support the processes and structures that comprise learning. The paper first discusses the processes involved in learning cognitive skills, then describes…

The 15 lessons in this step-by-step guide for grades 4-8 are intended to promote the development of thinking skills through the use of databases. These lesson plans, which include specific instructions for using Microsoft Works, constitute a complete unit on the states of the United States. A disk containing 16 files for use with the lessons is…

This collection provides an overview of literature entered into the ERIC database in 1990 on computer applications in elementary and secondary education, adult education, and special education. The first of four sections contains a list of overview documents on computer assisted instruction. Focusing on special applications, the second section…

Intended for teachers and supervisors, this guide offers a working knowledge of current approaches to the direct application of the computer to the classroom. The guide demonstrates the many ways in which English departments can use microcomputers to assist teachers in teaching middle school English critical thinking skills topics. The guide is…

Examines the relationship of microcomputer simulation graphics and alphanumeric modes of data presentation to ninth-grade biology students' science process skills and conceptual understanding of selected science topics (N=64). Concludes that use of microcomputers and appropriate software can result in significant learning and understanding of…

In this age of information and technology, there is a concern for educating information literate youth. After defining information literacy, the paper describes recent tools for educating students, including point-and-click software, graphic interfaces, software for information analysis, and programs to help determine credibility of sources. (SM)

The December 1990 Media Evaluation Services list of computer courseware includes the following: (1) Group Grammar: grades 5-10 identify elements of grammar and mechanics; (2) Ready-Set-Read: Sequence: grades K-2 put pictures or sentences in order; (3) Write-On! Sarah, Plain and Tall: grades 4-7 develop reading, writing, and thinking skills through…

This is more than an annotated bibliography. It offers information to teachers and instructors in many subject areas including mathematics, science (interfacing microcomputer software for science laboratories), English as a second language, oral communication, keyboarding (software), writing, basic skills, test taking skills, vocational education,…

Project CHILD is a research and development project for grades K-5, which covers reading, language arts, thinking skills, and mathematics. Project CHILD provides the model, supporting materials, and applications of technology. Three classrooms form a CHILD cluster (K-2 and 3-5); each teacher becomes a subject specialist; and the children work in…

Teachers who have completed workshops designed to develop their teaching skills using one computer for the delivery of whole-class instruction are implementing new teaching strategies into their existing curricula. Software designed specifically for--or that can be adapted to--one-computer classrooms are used to involve groups in collaborative…

This report describes an interactive video program designed to help college biology students with their abilities to visually discriminate between instructional images, and to think critically about those images. A brief discussion of interactive video technology is provided, including details about videodisks, CD-ROM databases, computer software,…

This volume of proceedings of the 1990 National Educational Computing Conference (NECC) provides a record of the state-of-the-art in the use of computing in a variety of educational settings. Special sessions, panels, projects, 153 abstracts, and 44 papers are reported here on subjects including: elementary and secondary educational software,…