This survey of authoring languages that are used in computer-assisted instruction (CAI) highlights recent developments in Macintosh authoring languages and discusses their use in courseware development. CAI effectiveness is defined, advantages and disadvantages of CAI are described, and future research needs are suggested. (27 references) (LRW)

Discusses the use of the Training and Assessment System (TAS), a software program designed to analyze teacher behavior and interaction between teachers and students. A TAS program is described which was conducted at the Houston Community College System to help instructors analyze their classroom interaction; tables depicting the report generated…

Examines trends in the design of database management systems for microcomputers and predicts developments that may occur in the next decade. Possible developments are discussed in the areas of user interfaces, database programing, library systems, the use of MARC data, CD-ROM applications, artificial intelligence features, HyperCard, and…

Describes trends in educational software design in the United States for elementary and secondary education. Highlights include user-friendly software; learner control; interfacing the computer with other media, including television, telecommunications networks, and optical disk technology; microworlds; graphics; word processing; database…

The effect of an imagery cue and an attention-directing strategy within the context of a microcomputer learning environment was studied using 180 Ohio State University freshmen. The environment provided both self-paced and externally paced instruction. It appears that the attention strategy and embedding of an imagery cue increased students'…

Reflects on the thought and process involved in the development of a series of computer simulations used to help teach a two-semester U.S. history course. Lists common elements in the simulations, describes the simulations, and responds to criticisms. Discusses student reaction to the use of computer simulations in a history course. (LS)

Outlines technological and cognitive considerations in the selection of authoring systems for writing computer-assisted instruction (CAI) lessons. Topics discussed include hardware selection; documentation; text display; screen appearance; branching and sequencing; text editing; graphics; animation; sound and voice input and output; student…

Reviews three software programs: (1) "Microsoft Works 2.0": word processing, data processing, and telecommunications, grades 7 and up; (2) "AppleWorks GS": word processor, database, spreadsheet, graphics, and telecommunications, grades 3-12, Apple IIGS; (3) "Choices, Choices: On the Playground, Taking Responsibility":…

Reviews a software package, "Mitosis-Meiosis," available for Apple II or IBM computers with colorgraphics capabilities. Describes the documentation, presentation and flexibility of the program. Rates the program based on graphics and usability in a biology classroom. (CW)

Examines Japanese and American children's styles of processing computerized geometric matrices. Hypothesizes cultural differences for response latencies. Finds no difference in accuracy between the two groups but significant differences in response times for second- and fifth-graders. (MW)

Discusses procedures for storyboard development and provides guidelines for designing interactive multimedia courseware, including interactivity, learner control, feedback, visual elements, motion video, graphics/animation, text, audio, and programming. A topical bibliography that lists 98 items is included. (LRW)

This article describes the AutoCAD Laboratory at Hawaii's Kamehameha Secondary Schools, offering the perspective of the AutoCAD instructor and Technology Department Head, looking at a day in the AutoCAD Laboratory, and explaining how teaching students about computer-assisted design and drafting can prepare them for college or careers. (SM)

Describes how Logo computer simulations, or microworlds, were incorporated into a series of lessons on the nature of probability. Data were generated and displayed using Logo. (MKR)

A new optometry-oriented program for the Macintosh computer has been written for the Neural Sciences Computer-Assisted Learning Package to include graphics and synthesized speech. It has 21 modules in 6 categories: anatomical drawings; diagrams illustrating physiological concepts; records from experiments; flow charts of neuroanatomical pathways;…

Describes a Macintosh user interface to the NOTIS (Northwestern Online Total Integrated System) online public access catalog (OPAC) developed at the University of Delaware. Adaptation of the HyperCard-based interface from Cornell University, MacPAC, is described; testing and marketing is discussed; and future developments are addressed. (six…