An Illinois survey of 84 kindergarten and special education early childhood teachers found that computers were used in over 50% of the kindergartens but only 7% of the special education classes, that most teachers had had some hands-on computer training, and that teachers were not contacted by parents for information about educational computer…

Based upon testimony before the National Governor's Association Task Force on Technology, this article identifies important considerations that state education agencies should take into account in developing educational technology plans and strategies. Policy recommendations are given, including the creation of interstate consortia for software…

Description of new applications of digital optical disc storage technologies focuses on CD-ROM (Compact Disc--Read Only Memory); CD-I (Compact Disc--Interactive); and DV-I (Digital Video--Interactive). Features of each technology are described in the context of instructional design and educational technology, and the role of educational research…

Discusses the effects of fiber-optics and other new technologies on communication technology courses. Explores several of the technologies that are applicable to this type of course. Describes how various applications can be presented and highlighted using inexpensive classroom demonstrations. (TW)

Reports on an experiment which used computer games to increase the efficiency of information processing and concentration skills among learning disabled (LD) children. Results showed that computer games presented within the framework of self-verbalization procedures and peer-interaction facilitated the information processing of LD children.…

Lists articles, papers, and reports on engineering technology education that were published in 1986. Categorizes the citations under headings of administration, computers, curriculum, electronics, industry/government/employers, instructional technology, laboratories, liberal studies, manufacturing, mechanical, minorities, research, robotics, and…

Outlines a systematic approach to instructional design and discusses some of the cognitive and instructional issues involved in learning or teaching scientific concepts. Uses the concept of "acceleration" to illustrate the approach. Advocates the use of computers and related information technologies in concept teaching. (ML)

This study investigated the effectiveness of computer simulations for enhancing the problem solving skills of high school students. Summaries of three related studies are presented. Results indicate that the computerized simulations enabled students to master the objectives of a biology course as effectively as traditional methods. (ML)

Examines the use of computers for error detection in natural language texts. Focuses on a computer program designed to teach students to edit their papers for errors using pattern matching in error detection. Describes a "pedagogy for editing" and speculates on ways to improve computer detection of errors in natural language texts. (AEM)

Highlights the potential for television as an instructional medium. Recognizes that television is a fact of life and a major determinant of what citizens know about history. Concludes that television has helped to create the information age, and the challenge of the information age needs to be addressed by our schools. (GEA)

Examines the current and future use of communications satellites in tele-education programs. Discusses programs such as Project SHARE which are using telecommunications to send medical and educational programming to remote parts of the world. Reports on developments in tele-education technology that are expected for the 1990s, followed by Amy…

Asserts that using audiovisual materials to give book reports incorporates reading, writing, and media into one project. Describes several methods of presentation, including videotape activities, creating sound effects, and designing games which relate to books. Also suggests various motivational tools for teachers and librarians. (MM)

Discusses potential of new and advancing distance learning methods for meeting educational reform mandates for increased curricular offerings in rural schools. Describes specific successful programs now using interactive television via satellite, audio teleconferencing, videotapes, and microcomputer linking. Provides names, addresses, and…

Assesses potential technological benefits to the instructional and learning process in continuing education during the next 10-15 years. Discusses technological developments from the perspective of capabilities and role, as well as the instructional design process. Describes the need for an open learning system. (CH)

Discusses the feasibility of using fermenters in secondary school laboratories. Includes discussions of equipment, safety, and computer interfacing. Describes how a simple fermenter could be used to simulate large-scale processes. Concludes that, although teachers and technicians will require additional training, the prospects for biotechnology in…