Describes the rewards and difficulties encountered when an educator/administrator uses ApplePILOT to develop "higher-order" instructional software tailored to meet the needs of an existing history curriculum. Reports research results showing significant learning gains for the seventh graders who participated in the post-development…

The article describes the process of planning, coordinating, and implementing a comprehensive program for the use of microcomputers in the education of hearing impaired students. An appendix outlines a three session inservice training workshop on computer applications. (CL)

The Hearing Impaired Program of Township High School District 214, Mt. Prospect, Illinois, provides comprehensive computer services to students and staff through computer assisted instruction and computer programing instruction, vocational experiences, and administrative systems for supervisors and staff. (Author/CL)

The article examines the history of computer assisted instruction (CAI), compares the beginnings of television with the beginnings of microcomputers, and examines the components of CAI (drill and practice, tutoring, instructional games, simulation, problem solving, demonstration, and mini-programs). Issues such as compatability and effects on…

Describes two approaches for uses with computer-assisted vocabulary learning (CAL): (1) uncontextualized CAL, requiring one-word answers and (2) contextualized forms of practice in which a text has to be unscrambled or rebuilt. Discusses some of the advantages of CAL and also some of the problems of using it effectively and integrating it into the…

B. F. Skinner provides advice for educators on several issues related to computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Some pitfalls of programed instruction in the 1960s which CAI may also face today, aversive control, courseware design, and use of computer graphics are among the areas explored. (JN)

Discusses the use of microcomputers for technical skills training, particularly in auto mechanics. Indicates that the major reasons for implementing the method are time and money: The graduate technician is on the job sooner, thereby reducing the cost of the computer-based training. (JOW)

Computers can be an asset to education when the focus is upon students' learning needs and teachers' capabilities. This article discusses the ineffective uses of computers in home and school. (DF)

Discusses optimum school uses for microcomputers, how computers affect learning, and how computer effectiveness can be maximized. (JOW)

Outlines a problem-solving method for beginning chemistry students that utilizes specific, concrete steps as well as computer-assisted tutorials. The method involves an approach referred to as the Factor-Unit Method coupled with a graphical "road map" which allows students to trace problems from start to finish. (JN)

Describes the use of two computer simulations in a journalism class to help teach information-gathering techniques and information evaluation. (HTH)

Of the 342 surveyed programs, 82 percent responded, and 51 percent used microcomputers as an instructional tool. Results indicate a critical need for a software exchange among programs for hearing-impaired students, as well as in-service training and information-sharing programs. The survey information indicates the need for increased support for…

Presents evaluation criteria for reviewing foreign language microcomputer teaching programs. Areas covered include accuracy and authenticity of the language, documentation of the program's goals and uses, presentation of information which embodies sound methods of language instruction, packaging which fosters student interest, and the ease with…

Summarizes educational research on four aspects of learner feedback--function, timing, schedule, and type--and discusses implications of the findings for software development. (MBR)

The article highlights trends in priority user needs and market information on microcomputer hardware/software for special education. Among trends noted are significant increases in microcomputer hardware inventories, and perceived needs for computer assisted instruction, administrative functions, and systematic planning for the use of technology…