Reviews attributes of laser discs and "traditional" objections to use of audiovisual materials. Use of authoring systems as means of tailoring laser disc programs and updating aging materials is described. Flexibility and power of the Video Nova Authoring System is explained and illustrated and the SONY SMC-70 microcomputer is evaluated.…

Presents a rationale as to why bilingual programs present a unique proving ground for computer-assisted evaluation efforts; also outlines the evaluation of Connecticut's bilingual education programs. A summary of computer applications designed to improve evaluation and a brief discussion of current benefits and future possibilities are included.…

Identifies recurring limitations of instructional technologies often overlooked by proponents, examines barriers to educational innovation and the political context of change, and presents guidelines for optimizing instructional technologies and consolidating change. References are made to educational technology articles and texts throughout.…

Presents an activity in which students create a computer program capable of recording and projecting paper use at school. Includes instructional strategies and background information such as requirements for pounds of paper/tree, energy needs, water consumption, and paper value at the recycling center. A sample program is included. (DH)

Bank Street Laboratory (a set of hardware/software tools for measuring temperature, light, and sound) consists of a board that plugs into Apple microcomputers, cabling, software, and six probes. Discusses the laboratory's hardware, including the analog-to-digital converter, multiplier chip, and modular connectors. Circuit diagrams of components…

Discusses the use of the Bank Street Laboratory sound probe in activities focusing on various aspects of sound. Also examines what students were learning during the activities (such as students understanding what is meant by the pitch of a tone). (JN)

Reviews research on effective teacher characteristics and generalizes them to effective microcomputer instruction. Characteristics discussed include allocating adequate time for academic tasks, curriculum pacing, providing supportive and efficient learning environments, use of group management procedures, teaching skills before drill and practice,…

Describes set-up, user characteristics, goals, and successes of neighborhood computer centers where informal microcomputer instruction is presented. Centers described include East Harlem's Playing to Win; Center for the Development of Non-Formal Education in Austin, Texas; a learning center in New York City's business district; and Family…

Focusing primarily on hard disks, this report describes the choices currently available; explains the inner workings of hard-disk technology; lists 70 leading hard-disk products with their costs and capabilities; describes a new type of high-capacity drive; and compares speed, cost, and reliability of a number of widely used hard-disk backup…

Discusses stages in the evolution of educational software and changes in general and specific software characteristics. Also discusses future developments in educational software and hardware, suggesting the development of a new area in educational and cognitive psychology centering on computers in education. (JN)

Discusses three main aspects of developing effective computer-assisted-instruction (CAI) materials. These include beginning with a complete model of teaching, including certain minimum components and characteristics in a lesson, and evaluating and revising a lesson until it is successful. (JN)

Advantages of computerized data acquisition and three approaches to data collection are discussed. Interfacing techniques and use of microcomputers as physiological recorders are also discussed. Examples of computerized data acquisition are provided. These include computer monitoring of animal activity and collecting data from species distribution…

Describes the development and installation of the Computer Automated Software for the Total Library Environment System (CASTLE), which uses a microcomputer to automate operations of small academic library in six main areas: circulation, online catalog, inventory and file maintenance, audiovisual equipment, accounting, and information and…

Microcomputers can be an asset for the physical educator in dealing with special education students. Factors to keep in mind when exploring the use of computers in the classroom are offered. (DF)

An enrichment program emphasizing activities with calculators and computers for mathematically advanced children is discussed. How the program was implemented in grades three - six and in grades one - two is described in some detail. A schedule of activities and a list of resources is also given. (MNS)