This analysis of trends in computer-based instruction (CBI) during the past decade briefly describes evaluation criteria from 1974 and discusses changes in attitudes toward CBI (costs, instructional effectiveness); system selection criteria (graphics, input devices, quantity and quality of software); the CBI marketplace (including transportability…

Describes several computer courseware packages designed to teach about the 200th anniversary of the United States Constitution. Lists the title, publisher, required hardware, suggested grade level, type of program, price, and description of nine such programs. (TW)

Examines potential of computer communications in distance education based on trials of electronic mail and computer conferencing at British Open University. Highlights include descriptions of two courses that experimented with MAIL MANAGER electronic mail software, and a discussion of the role of tutors as potential moderators of conferences.…

Three examples are given in which students create their own Logo software to explore the topics of number patterns and operations, fractions, and decimal parts in measurement. (MNS)

Reviews software that focuses on writing skills for children aged 2 to 15. Includes information on public domain and commercial programs on learning the alphabet, basic penmanship, sentence structure, and writing book reports and essays. Provides ordering information on the suggested programs. Explains how parents can help. (ML)

Describes experiences with turtle graphics to demonstrate motion in a constant gravitational field. Provides the computer program and typical diagrams. (YP)

Describes a Pascal-language based kinetics rate package for the microcomputer. Considers possible ecological uses for the program and illustrates results for several rate laws. Discusses hardware and software needs for adequate operation. (ML)

This paper reviews learning characteristics and best intervention practices for the mentally retarded; research on the use of computer-assisted instruction to teach language skills; alternative models for computer use, such as expert systems and learner-based software; characteristics of computer-based language activities that complement learning…

Reviews for three software packages are given. The packages are: Super Math Package, a collection of 19 programs on a variety of mathematical topics; Interactive Experiments in Calculus; and Introductory Statistics Software Package. (PK)

Reviews two computer software packages for use in physical science, physics, and chemistry classes. Includes "Physics of Model Rocketry" for Apple II, and "Black Box" for Apple II and IBM compatible computers. "Black Box" is designed to help students understand the concept of indirect evidence. (CW)

Describes two computer simulation programs, "Nerve Physiology" and "Frog Heart," as practical alternatives to the use of live animals in class experiments. Discusses the potential of computer simulation as a feasible alternative to experiments with animals in the classroom laboratory. (CW)

Discusses a new computer modelling system and compares a teaching strategy that uses computers to explore exponential decay with a teaching method employing the Cellular Modelling System in which the monitoring of a real experiment and the development of a model representing the experiment are done at the same time. (CW)

Describes the language learning program "Acquire," which is a sample of grammar induction. It is a learning algorithm based on a pattern-matching scheme, using both a positive and negative network to reduce overgeneration. Language learning programs may be useful as tutorials for learning the syntax of a foreign language. (Author/LMO)

A British university's experience has shown that, with appropriate software and management methods, most of the practical problems in using student questionnaires to evaluate courses can be overcome. (MSE)

Discussed are field analyses of data involving paleocurrent directions using a goniometer and special programs for a pocket computer. States that on-site evaluation can provide immediate realization and verification of anomalous results. Includes computer programs and directions for building a goniometer. (CW)