Arguing that educators may be facing their greatest challenge in decades as they seek to integrate critical thinking techniques into the computer-assisted instruction (CAI) environment, this paper discusses the crucial importance of critical thinking and explores some potential adverse effects of CAI in this area. A brief historic overview of…

Secondary social studies teachers were surveyed concerning the degree to which they integrated microcomputers into instruction, the extent of integration, and incentives or barriers. One-third indicated they used microcomputers in class, but frequency of use was low. Nonusers reported lack of experience and training as primary reasons for nonuse.…

Examines the quality of technology-based learning, investigating whether interactive technology can improve educational systems. The paper describes a program to gather evidence for definitive empirical studies and discusses possibilities for establishing the pedagogical value of technology-based learning material. (SM)

Reviews communication capacities of computers that can be used to enhance the writing process; reports on recent studies of the social effects of using computers in writing classes, including a case study of student collaborative writing; and discusses research and teaching implications of research findings. (MBR)

The paper focuses on questions related to the use of microcomputer software in the social studies classroom. The most commonly used microcomputer instructional techniques are presented, including drill and practice, tutorial, inquiry learning, educational games, real world simulations, models, use of graphics, and creative writing. The paper…

Focusing on ways in which Oregon educators have made use of computers, the 47 papers in this proceedings show substantial progress in some areas and point out some unanswered research, instructional, learning, and management questions. The contents are divided into three general areas: Curriculum Applications, Learning and Teaching, and Classroom…

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 study of two online graduate courses designed and delivered via a computer conferencing system at Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE). Advantages and disadvantages based on student responses are examined, new learning strategies for computer-mediated courses are discussed, and topics for future research are suggested.…

The purpose of this study is to present information that will help educators to gain a better understanding of microcomputer capabilities and limitations and to inform them as to the role of microcomputers in the classroom. Through examination of studies and articles six topics related to computer-assisted instruction (CAI) are addressed: (1) age…

Forty-four papers presented at a conference focusing on research in agricultural education are presented in this document. Representative titles among the papers (each of which is followed by a brief critique) are: "Analysis of the Computer Anxiety Levels of Vocational Agriculture Teachers" (Kotrlik, Smith); "Assessing Performance and Planning…

Twelve major papers delivered during this conference on agricultural education in the Northeastern states are included in this volume: (1) "Status of Pennsylvania Special Needs Students in Vocational Agriculture: Phase IV--Job Performance Follow-Up," by Dennis C. Scanlon and Connie D. Baggett; (2) "Education, Age and Experience:…