Shows how guidelines from Robert Pirsig's "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" can be used to evaluate computer-based projects in the schools. Guidelines include caring about the project, viewing it from the perspective of the specialist and the common person, and being systematic in approach. (KRN)

Information technology from the rhythm of African drumbeats to electronic communication is described to introduce the importance of reaching out to various groups to facilitate global understanding and language learning. (LB)

An electronic version of Yu-gong Yi Shan, an ancient Chinese fable, is discussed as a prototype of the use of technology for Chinese teaching and learning. Yu-gong demonstrates how hypermedia can be designed to overcome the linear, static, and silent constraints of book technology. (four references) (Author/LB)

Ways for using computer-generated concordances in language teaching are suggested, specifically, a typology of exercise types. Kinds of information to be derived from a concordance (e.g., keyword-in-context type) are considered, followed by a discussion of the rationale and technical problems encountered. (10 references) (LB)

Self-instruction, more likely applied to adult learners, depended on the extent to which learners more or less consciously make decisions about aspects of the learning situation and control them. Issues of control are discussed and examples of relevant learning situations are offered, including group work and computer-assisted learning. (16…

Discusses the changes that technology has brought to the music classroom. Argues that the need for change is crucial for understanding technology, in its application, and for the resulting process of education. Compares computer-assisted instruction with technology-based education. Suggests that rather than technology degrading the arts, the arts…

Argues that those who work in the field of computers and composition have developed a characteristic value system antithetical to that found generally in English departments. Compares the characteristic value system of computer specialists with the general academic values and hopes that it remains distinct. (HB)

Outlines the drastic changes involved in introducing computer technology into the teaching of writing, particularly with regard to the overarching costs of such changes and the sense of dislocation that often accompanies them. Discusses problems that teachers typically have when shifting to computer instruction. (HB)

Discusses the use of interactive media in computer-based training and describes a workbook and software package--Interactive Toolkit--designed for students learning to use interactive media. The package covers the basics of instructional design and how interactive media works, and a simple authoring system for creating computer-based training…

Comparison of 2 computer-assisted instructional treatments in syllogistic reasoning--one requiring a deeper level of processing with a diagrammatic response--found that the 13 learning-disabled high school students receiving the diagrammatic instruction required fewer trials to achieve mastery criteria and produced significantly higher posttest…

Discusses issues that are relevant to the successful integration of technology and education that should be considered in preservice teacher education, as well as by professionals. Topics addressed include lack of organizational, theoretical, and practical consensus; the role of technology in school reform; and the role of integrated learning…

Introduces and demonstrates a quick-prototyping model for educational software development that can be used by teachers developing their own courseware using an object-oriented programming system. Development of a courseware package called "The Match-Maker" is explained as an example that uses HyperCard for quick prototyping. (Contains…

Investigates the effectiveness of two versions of a computerized spelling program designed to improve children's spelling and phonological skills. Finds that, for children 10 years or older, training with intermediate speech feedback led to greater benefits in phonological coding skills than training with word-only feedback. Finds no difference…

Examines options for computer support for reading text within a supportive reading environment called "Responsive Text." Notes that Responsive Text is one of a number of programs that utilize computer speech in concert with graphics, text manipulation, and questions, to make text more accessible to poor readers while providing reading instruction…

Advice for developing computer-assisted instruction includes (1) narrow the topic focus; (2) select appropriate hardware and software for goals; (3) develop instructional design by mapping software features; and (4) consider the instructional, aesthetic, operational, and curricular adequacy of the program. (SK)