In communities including New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Chicago, educators are creating alternative schools for struggling students that employ online credit-recovery programs as a core portion, or all, of their curriculum. The growth in online learning generally, including blended learning, has fueled the proliferation of computer-based credit…

Implemented on the PLATO IV computer-assisted instruction facility located at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the Language Arts Routing System (LARS) is a package of lessons and tests designed to provide remedial training in certain basic language arts skills. LARS is a system which may be used by itself or as an adjunct to regular…

The English department at the University of Cincinnati recently initiated an experimental writing course for developmental students who used Apple IIc computers and the Bank Street Writer (BSW) word processing program. BSW was chosen because of its overall simplicity, efficiency, and accessibility. The first two weeks of the course consisted of…

This investigation developed a methodology for adapting self-instructional materials to individual differences. Data on within-course variables of proportion of correct answers, latency and anxiety were monitored and regression analysis used to determine predictors of final performance. Regression equations were coded into the computer logic and…

Suggests a three-step process for selecting remedial courseware: an in-house evaluation using an evaluation form designed for the specific learning environment; consultation with external sources which evaluate courseware; and use of the courseware on a trial basis with students. (AYC)

Reviews the evolution of math software from the 1980s to the present. Discusses how current notions of learning styles have changed software applications and how critical thinking and problem solving have impacted software development. Addresses the overall effect of technology on math anxiety and explores what new technology tools are available…

A study was conducted to see if the use of word processing programs during composition instruction for basic writers would result in a larger quantity of writing and more global revision while writing. Subjects were 18 fifth, sixth, or seventh grade students who had been referred for remedial reading and writing instruction. They were assigned to…

The purpose of this study was to evaluate performance, backgrounds, attitudes, interests, academic needs, and problems of remedial English students at Baruch College of the City University of New York. The students were exposed to three instructional methods: computer-assisted instruction, programed instruction, and regular classroom instruction,…

Describes creation of special remediation laboratories in subjects of mathematics, reading, and language arts utilizing computer instruction technology in three high schools in Bristol, Connecticut. Funding sources, program implementation, and evaluation reports are discussed. (EJS)

This digest discusses two specific computer-aided instruction systems used in two-year colleges in the United States and Canada, and addresses critical points regarding system implementation in remedial education programs. As developed in the Nova Scotia Community College System in Canada, the INVEST computer system provides literacy-based…

Describes and evaluates computer assisted instruction (CAI) remedial program used for credit course in bibliographic instruction, noting need, requirements, development, planning, and implementation. Statistics are presented to support principle that CAI can be valuable instructional methodology for bibliographic instruction programs. Test-retake…

Describes a microcomputer-based program of assessment and instruction in language arts incorporated into the developmental curriculum at four colleges. Discusses the instructional value of assessment. Describes three different implementation modes. Finds a climate for experimentation, a program champion, an implementation team, and organizational…

This paper evaluates the strengths and limitations of a computer tutor designed to help students understand physics concepts. The tutor uses a teaching strategy called "bridging analogies" that previous research has demonstrated to be successful in one-to-one tutoring. The strategy is designed to remedy misconceptions by appealing to existing…

Extensive commitment to the remedial "tracking approach" over many years by the City Colleges of Chicago has not produced the desired outcomes. The results of several studies indicate that: student achievement in remedial courses has not resulted in improved performance in regular college courses; student and institutional retention is…

A computer-assisted instructional (CAI) course, WRITE, was used at the Poughkeepsie, New York, Middle School to help 5th through 8th graders with spelling and word usage problems. The course used the Coursewriter III language and an IBM System/360 computer; students received self-paced instructional programs at typewriter terminals. All teaching…