Describes the implementation of a trajectory-plotting program for a microcomputer; shows how it may be used to demonstrate the focusing effect of a simple electrostatic lens. The computer program is listed and diagrams are included that show comparisons of trajectories of negative charges in the vicinity of positive charges. (TW)

Presents examples of didactic computer software developed in a college of engineering, along with a discussion of pedagogical and systems considerations. Discusses the use of the computer in relation to Bloom's Taxonomy. Describes the system approach, which is used to sequentially develop valid and relevant software. (TW)

Describes the content and structure of a computer-assisted reading instruction program for intermediate level adults learning English in a business environment. The program focuses on the three reading subskills of skimming, scanning, and guessing. Suggestions for teachers on how to evaluate effective courseware are provided. (Author/SED)

Explores the decision-making process that went into producing the Blossom computer-assisted instruction (CAI) materials for French instruction at Pennsylvania State University. Some of the attributes, limitations, and questions concerning the user, validity, and usefulness of CAI materials are also discussed. (Author/SED)

A computer program that provides a routine assessment of a text is an important instructional aid. AT&T's system, Writer's Workbench, provides Colorado State University's business students feedback to achieve a clear writing style in letters, memos, and reports. (MLW)

The DAPPOR software, a drill and practice program for learning the command languages of major vendors of bibliographic databases, was tested in a classroom environment at two library schools. Statistically significant positive learning differences were observed with DAPPOR use, particularly with the DIALOG language. (21 references) (Author/EJS)

Describes development of a causal model to test effects of scholastic ability, computing attitudes, and computing background of university undergraduates on use of a computer-assisted instructional system, PLATO-LDEC; on attitudes toward PLATO-LDEC; on computing attitudes after students' PLATO-LDEC experience; and on course grade. (Author/MBR)

An experimental program for university summer students of French as a second language that provided a computer resource center and a variety of courseware, authoring aids, and other software for student use is described and the problems and advantages are discussed. (MSE)

Computer-based instruction (CBI) studies analyzed by Kulik et al. were examined to explore the validity of competing claims about the computer's contribution to measured achievement gains. Results suggest achievement gains found in CBI studies are overestimated and are due to uncontrolled but robust instructional methods embedded in CBI…

This study investigated the impact of integrated learning systems, problem solving software, and simulation software on elementary students' reading performance. Results indicate students entering fourth through sixth grade profited more from instruction supplemented by problem-solving and simulation software than from skills instruction. Results…

Describes a computer-based education project in which PLATO terminals were used to facilitate education of disadvantaged South African adult Blacks. South Africa's socioeconomic and political background, problems of adult learners, reasons for using a computer-based solution, and project funding are discussed, and project observations and…

Describes a computerized system which presents objective test items to students, and upon question completion, provides immediate feedback with correct answers and explanations. Use of the system by pharmacology students and an analysis of end-of-year examination results are presented. (Author/MBR)

This study focused on the transition in memory between conceptual knowledge formation and procedural knowledge development. The first variable--display time interval--controlled the amount of instructional display time of each interrogatory example; the second variable--content sequence--sequenced examples according to response-sensitive decision…

Describes formation, structure, and responsibilities of Computer-Assisted Learning (CAL) Group at University of Nijmegen and presents overview of the group's projects and commentary on modes and roles of CAL, subject matter areas, motivational factors, and role of externally developed products. Areas related to CAL service and future developments…

Summarizes five studies: (1) new sight words for computer-using children; (2) immediate rewards for correct answers with computer assisted instruction; (3) importance of parental attitude and experience to student achievement with computers; (4) Logo and adolescent females' mathematics achievement; and (5) competition versus cooperation for male…