Equipped with simple sensors and software, a microcomputer can become a microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL). Discusses the value of MBL's and provides three programs which preview the new MBL kits available for science classes. A list of commercially available MBL's (with product names, current prices, and other information) is also included. (JN)

Suggests that students can learn the physics of a musical note by learning how to synthesize sounds on a computer. Discusses ADSR (attack, decay, sustain, and release of a note) and includes a program (with listing) which students can use to examine ADSR on a Commodore 64 microcomputer. (JN)

Activities for middle/junior high school students are presented, including use of string variables, science lesson ideas, computer scavenger hunt, and guidelines for interviewing people who own/use computers. Includes "I'll Write...Just Lead Me to My Computer" by Robert Engberg, discussing word processing instruction. (JN)

Discusses computer uses in science classrooms, cautioning teachers not to put a "screen" between students and the natural world. Teaching about computers (rather than teaching with computers), teaching students to appreciate computers as tools, and computer strengths are among the topics considered. (JN)

Discusses inquiry-oriented science instruction and experientially based programs that support newer instructional strategies. Also provides examples of six process-oriented programs (Cat Lab, Geology Search, Rocky's Boots, Tell Star, Volcanoes, What's in Your Lunch?). Level, hardware needed, publisher, and description are provided for each…

Reviewed are computer software packages: "Where in Time Is Carmen Sandiego,""The Bio Sci Videodisc," and "Bio Sci Stacks." Included are hardware requirements, costs, emphasis, grade level, and availability. Functions of the packages are discussed including strengths and weaknesses and teaching suggestions. (CW)

Reviewed are two computer software packages: "Super Solvers Midnight Rescue!" a problem-solving program for IBM PCs; and "Interactive Physics," a simulation program for the Macintosh computer. The functions of the package are discussed including strengths and weaknesses and teaching suggestions. (CW)

Reviewed are three computer software packages including "Martin Luther King, Jr.: Instant Replay of History,""Weeds to Trees," and "The New Print Shop, School Edition." Discussed are hardware requirements, costs, grade levels, availability, emphasis, strengths, and weaknesses. (CW)

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)

Discusses some of the attributes of effective tutorial software programs. Describes four science programs that focus on the physical and earth sciences, and highlights some of their features that are proposed as features of high-quality educational software. (TW)

Presented is a summary of the results of two research reviews on the use of educational technology in the classroom. Criticisms of research methods are discussed. Three centers for research in educational technology are described. Summaries of five specific research reports are provided. (CW)

Provides reviews of three software packages including "MusicShapes,""For Comment," and "Colortrope," which were developed for music, writing, and science, respectively. Includes information on grade levels, publishers, hardware needed, and cost. (TW)

Discusses the use of local networks and integrated learning systems in delivering instruction. Presents a summary of projects initiated by the states of Maryland, Florida, Michigan, Minnesota, and North Carolina. Notes that although network software is gaining popularity, most software is still for the individual user. (MVL)

Discusses the drop out rate and the at-risk youth problem. Summarizes what some implemented federal and state programs are doing and what some will do. Lists goals of several states. (MVL)

The use of programs on the topic of dinosaurs in interdisciplinary exercises which may include mathematics, science, history, and language arts is described. Reviews of 16 different computer programs are included. Possible misconceptions and how they are dealt with in various programs are discussed. (CW)