Addresses the potential of conversational simulations for computer-assisted language learning (CALL) and reasons why this potential is largely untapped. Topics discussed include artificial intelligence; microworlds; parsing; realism versus reality in computer software; intelligent tutoring systems; and criteria to clarify what kinds of CALL…

Results from a survey of 91 educational software manufacturers, developers, and publishers regarding the criteria they use to guide software development indicate that 67 percent have no formal guidelines. Publishers should develop a standard set of criteria in consultation with educators and all software should be field tested before it is…

Describes Sentence Patterns, a software program designed to help teach sentence structure to college freshman composition students. Topics discussed include traditional teaching methods for the effective use of written language, software development, use in computer labs, and student surveys used for courseware evaluation. (LRW)

The article discusses concerns of producers and users of computer software for those with special needs, reviews current research findings and projects, and reports on a survey of special educators (N=22) that identifies characteristics of desirable software. (Author/DB)

Surveys uses of computers in ESL instruction, including: (1) kinds of hardware; (2) number of computers per school; (3) ratio of students per computer; (4) percentage of schools using computers per subject; (5) percentage of schools using each instructional mode; (6) software titles and percentage of schools using each; and (7) criteria for…

This paper describes three interactive computer programs used with personal computers to present science learning modules for all ages. Developed by groups of teachers at the Educational Technology Center at the University of California, Irvine, these instructional materials do not use the techniques of contemporary artificial intelligence. (GDC)

Describes a methodology for student involvement in courseware evaluation and for utilizing student reactions in purchasing and implementation decisions. The evaluation forms used in a survey of 2,308 Indiana students are presented, and the results of that survey are discussed. (18 references) (CLB)

Several issues will need to be addressed by education as schools incorporate micrcomputer technology in ever more sophisticated ways. Discussed are questions of organization, best use, parental involvement, hardware, software, public policy, and teacher training. (MT)

Outlines a strategy for constructing, piloting, and evaluating second language courseware using an existing authoring language. Specific techniques for screen and item development are included. (MSE)

Briefly describes the benefits of computer-assisted instruction for library applications in bibliographic instruction and staff training and notes that little quality software is available that is appropriate. Detailed guidelines are provided for librarians to design their own courseware, including planning, designing, writing, programming, and…

Based on the "Courseware Evaluation Project," supported by the Israeli Ministry of Education and Culture, this article addresses basic issues regarding formative evaluation practices in the context of computerized instruction. Topics discussed included the rationale for evaluation, elements to evaluate, dimensions for assessing quality, and…

Discusses GENERATE, a computer program designed to help the beginning linguistics student understand the rules and processes of transformational generative grammar. Many problems and possibilities involving the program and TG interface (the algorithm) are pointed out. (Author/SED)

Describes development of a program instituted at Paisley College of Technology (Scotland) which used microcomputers in undergraduate mathematics instruction. Discussion of the software production phase of this program and project objectives includes descriptions of the program's microcomputer network and one computer program which was developed.…

Reviews characteristics of computer-based training (CBT) that make application of communication theories appropriate and presents principles from communication theory (e.g., general systems theory, symbolic interactionism, rule theories, and interpersonal communication theories) to illustrate how CBT developers can profitably apply them to…

Describes a two-part rating scale for use in systematically evaluating lessons. Both computer and noncomputer lesson components are examined in the context of the nine events of instruction of which well-designed lessons are composed, and the effectiveness of each instructional event is rated. The lesson evaluation form is included. (MBR)