Decribes a study which compared computer assisted instruction (CAI) with a parallel paper-and-pencil module to assess the impact on students' achievement and attitudes in chemistry. Supports the contention that CAI works as well or better than more traditional methods and tends to promote positive attitudes. (RT)

Outlines design and management factors to be considered when developing a microcomputer lab for an instructional media center (IMC). Highlights include environmental considerations, including spatial arrangements, furniture, power requirements, temperature control, and lighting; software and hardware acquisition; and administrative considerations,…

Describes study that examined the effect of the use of microcomputers as word processors in a college freshman English composition course. Treatments for the experimental and control groups are described, dependent and independent variables are explained, and results based on pretest and posttest writing samples are analyzed. (21 references) (LRW)

Almost all research and development work in China in computer-assisted language instruction is done on micro- and minicomputers because they are more feasible financially. Describes some English as a foreign language and Chinese language courseware and courseware needs. (Author/LMO)

Discussion of problems encountered in educational software development in Japan is the second of a two-part series on evaluation of Japanese microcomputer-based software. Problems associated with content, learner attitude, and graphics presentation are described, and future challenges in simulation and integrating courseware with other teaching…

Discusses some of the improvements made recently in computerized speech and some questions about using such technology in classrooms. Describes the hardware needed for speech software. Provides a directory of what is currently available in speech-based products. (TW)

Designed to evaluate the use of microcomputer-based labware (MBL) in junior high school science, the Computer as Lab Partner Project examined classroom experience of using MBL; system features used and curriculum designed; classroom procedures, processes, and interactions; gains and benefits of MBL use; and potential difficulties in MBL…

Describes the Microelectronics Education Programme (MEP), a plan developed to help British secondary school students learn about microcomputers and the role of technology in society, and its successor, the Microelectronics Support Unit (MESU). Highlights include curriculum development, teacher training, computer assisted instruction and the…

Describes the component parts of interactive video systems and suggests reasons for the increasing popularity of interactive video over other forms of instruction in education and training. A British project is described which is concerned with investigating the potential of interactive video for teaching foreign languages to secondary school…

Describes study that investigated the effects of medium of instructional practice, task difficulty, and gender on continuing motivation. Microcomputers and paper and pencil format were compared on tasks at a hard or easy difficulty level with fifth and sixth grade students, and questionnaires were used to determine student attitudes. (Author/LRW)

Describes a course in biochemical engineering fundamentals which relies heavily on the use of personal computers. The computers are used with interactive tutorials, problems that require computer simulations of differential equations, and homework assignments. A list of computer assignments and student term projects is included. (TW)

Reviews database management software options for academic applications of pedagogy and research offering practical suggestions on choosing software. Software reviewed includes dBase III, Reflex, FYI 3000, Notebook II, AskSAM, Electra-Find, and Practicase. Program advantages, disadvantages, features, flexibility, and costs are discussed. A…

This study compared the effectiveness of microcomputer and workbook instruction on silent reading comprehension performance of mild mentally retarded and learning disabled 11- to 13-year-olds. Effectiveness was measured by percentage of correct responses to reading comprehension questions and by observing subjects' attention to task behavior. (MBR)

Presents recommendations for the topics and organization of preservice and inservice teacher training activities based on (1) a literature review on staff development for computer-assisted instruction, and (2) on opinions of successful microcomputer-using teachers in elementary and secondary science and mathematics instruction. (31 references)…

Discusses a community college's plan to make microcomputers available to the entire college community for computer usage-programing and computer-assisted instruction by designing space within media center. Student and faculty needs assessment, the physical design of the center, and future needs are included. (MBR)