The paper reviews international research on computer assisted learning (CAL) for special populations and examines the issue in terms of the Canadian policy perspective. Data collection techniques included interviews and field observations with researchers, manufacturers, and policy makers. A generic model is proposed for special education computer…

More than 100 microcomputer periodicals (magazines, newsletters, and journals) are reviewed in this annotated bibliography. Information provided includes publishing frequency, price (for a 1-year subscription in 1982), address, general content, and audiences, as well as subjective comments. Periodicals listed include those related to specific…

Within counselor education, attention to computer-assisted instruction, and to the use of microcomputers is just beginning. To collect information about counselor educators' use of microcomputers and to solicit opinions about the possible influence of this technology on counselor education curriculum and programming, a questionnaire was sent to…

Designed for use by South Carolina school districts planning to include microcomputer language arts software for grades one through eight in teaching the Basic Skills Assessment Program (BSAP) objectives in grades one through eight, this booklet presents titles of software programs given a favorable review by review services, and correlates them…

The effectiveness of the instructional use of computers as measured by student achievement is examined. Attention is given to the following issues: (1) attributes that may make computer instruction applicable to students with mild learning problems; (2) problems and limitations of computer instruction; and (3) future potential and needs of…

Children with learning or adjustment problems can profit from carefully managed application of educational technology. Success in such a venture depends on the quality of the microcomputer, the software, and the operator of the system. A model analyzing this triadic interaction notes variables associated with the computer (hardware resources,…

Three basic kinds of tools exist for computer assisted instruction (CAI): templates, which are often highly user-friendly and require little investment of time but whose potential is limited; authoring systems, which offer a number of options for lesson design and greater variety in approach, but which require more sophisticated input from the…

The basic hardware configuration of a network of up to 17 TRS-80 microcomputer systems (1 central, 16 peripheral) is described as implemented in the psychology department at the University of British Columbia. Such a system can serve several instructional functions (e.g., data generation for lab experiments, simulation of theories or experiments,…

This paper introduces a rationale and format for the introduction of microcomputers into the classrooms of British Columbia on a cost-effective basis. The three purposes of the paper are (1) to briefly present the activities of the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium (MECC); (2) to describe in general terms how British Columbia might…

This comprehensive guide to microcomputers and their role in education discusses the general nature of microcomputers; computer languages in simple English; operating systems and what they can do for you; compatible systems; special accessories; service and maintenance; computer assisted instruction, computer managed instruction, and computer…

Critically evaluates the assumption that microcomputer-based instruction can be used to teach generalizable thinking and problem solving skills. Transference of problem solving skills across domains is discussed, and strategies to promote problem solving abilities are examined, including computer assisted instruction and learning programing…

Described is a microcomputer-aided patient simulator (MAPS). The system was developed to increase medical students' opportunities to diagnose and manage patient problems. The system combines a microcomputer with an optional laserdisc player. The system has been used successfully for four years and could be used in other content fields. (RH)

Surveys uses of computers in ESL instruction, including: (1) kinds of hardware; (2) number of computers per school; (3) ratio of students per computer; (4) percentage of schools using computers per subject; (5) percentage of schools using each instructional mode; (6) software titles and percentage of schools using each; and (7) criteria for…

Describes a program designed to integrate new technology into the junior high school curriculum with emphasis on the role of the media specialist. Five steps are detailed: (1) needs assessment; (2) planning with teacher input how to fill student needs; (3) teacher training; (4) implementation; and (5) evaluation. (9 references) (MES)

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.…