Suggests that parents and teachers be alert to new programs that help children express their ideas and store information. Highlights several programs found in such disk magazines as "Window" and "Microzine," a word processing program (Bank Street Writer), and a program to create original arcade games (Rocky's Boots). (JN)

Discusses mechanics of and experiences with an urban land use simulation game. Students were able to practice developing analytical skills, improve their capacity to collect thoughts and present them orally, and participate in a real life "adult" situation where they could apply concepts learned in the course of their education.…

Provides general information on currently available microcomputers, computer programs (software), hardware requirements, software sources, costs, computer games, and programing. Includes a list of popular microcomputers, providing price category, model, list price, software (cassette, tape, disk), monitor specifications, amount of random access…

The evolution of educational games during the 1960s and 1970s culminated in a renewed awareness of the nature and potential of games. Simulations and games are suitable for instruction in urban growth, environmental problems, and in decision making in general. (KC)

Describes the stages in the development of the life insurance game 'Your Money or Your Life'--a board game designed to give students preparing for professional insurance examinations a better understanding of the nature, purpose, and scope of life insurance--and how the game is played. (EAO)

Describes the use of computer games in the classroom as tools which foster logical reasoning, perserverance, goal setting, and attention to detail. Names and addresses of six magazines containing computer games information are included. (JJD)

Outlines some games and simulations for teaching health related issues to various age groups. Among the games discussed are CHOICE, CONSEQUENCES, GUTS, LIFE CHANCES, NO BED NO JOB, and TENEMENT. Eleven references are listed. (LLS)

Several experimental instructional games for improving reading skills are described. The games are undergoing evaluation in a high school setting, and are viewed to show considerable promise for improving the targeted skills and having positive impact on other reading skills. The best features of instructional practice and games are combined. (MP)

A new approach to elementary health education involves the use of a series of health-related games. The games address a variety of issues including nutrition, substance abuse, and dental health education. The story "Floss is the Boss" is used as an example. (JN)

The development and use of an activity that uses the computer's unique capabilities to provide students with a relevant and highly motivating experience with the graphing of equations is outlined. The activity, called "Green Globs," illustrates the potential of developing new environments for learning on computers. (MP)

Four programs are reviewed: Crossword Magic, Master Type, The Vocabulary Baseball Game, and Meet the Presidents. The major innovations highlighted by the products selected are the ways the creators turned learning into a game. It is noted that whether this approach is desirable is for the individual teacher to decide. (MP)

Describes five elementary level social studies activities designed to increase student awareness of sex role stereotypes and an appreciation for sex fairness. Magazine/newspaper and textbook scavenger hunts, a role play/guessing game, and a decision-making activity are included. (AM)