Many of the factors that go into evaluating computer courseware are the same ones educators have been applying to all instructional materials long before computers entered the classroom. Discussed are some effective ways for locating computer courseware and instruction and computer related evaluation factors. (RM)

Two experiments were performed to determine whether practice on less complex problems, either smaller size or in familiar context, produces a strategy that transfers to similar but more complex problems. Practice on familiar problems was no more effective than practice on unfamiliar for transfer to another unfamiliar context for all sizes. (Author)

Energy Search, Geography Search, Geology Search, Archeology Search, and Community Search are microcomputer software games, usable in grades five to nine, which provide educational simulations, numbers and situational choices, and calculation of implications of decisions. The series is a pathfinder usable by entire class and requiring only one…

Describes a study that assessed the impact of microcomputer use on the computer literacy of high school accounting students. Results indicated that the computer literacy of the group exposed to microcomputers changed more from pre- to posttest than it did for the group not exposed to microcomputers. (NRJ)

In Sunnyvale, California (the computer industry's "Silicon Valley") two teachers of elementary learning disabled (LD) students took a course in microcomputers, acquired three microcomputers with a grant, and trained the students to use computer-assisted instruction, with such results as that in one year, 37 LD students tutored 100 primary…

The emergence of cognitive psychology as an important source for theories of learning, the relationship between information processing theories of learning and behaviorist theories, the implications of recent developments in cognitive psychology for instructional design, and the role of computers in instruction are among the topics addressed in…

Computer assisted instruction is used to increase the reading level of juvenile delinquents. The program at the Neeles School in California is designed to improve reading by vocabulary drill/practice exercises. Most students over a five-year period have increased their reading level by one month for each month in the project. (Author/JN)

Common computer terminology, microcomputer systems, peripheral equipment, and internal workings are discussed. Factors affecting establishment of a microcomputer in a music department are objectives and needs, available or easily created software, and hardware configurations that fit budgets yet provide needed power and flexibility. (KC)

The availability of relatively cheap microcomputers has led educators in the southeast Asian region to consider introducing computers and computer assisted instruction (CAI) into schools. Advantages, problems, and prospects of introducing CAI into Malaysian schools are discussed. (Author/JN)

Presents a general overview of various light-related findings with implications for the computer assisted learning environment. Suggests that software developed for instructional purposes incorporate color to maximize visual sensitivity and retention of information while minimizing visual fatigue. (Author/JN)

Argues that computers can be used by reading teachers in a number of ways, including (1) as a diagnostic test administrator, (2) as a target for student hostility, (3) as a "tutee" for poor readers, (4) as a conversationalist, (5) as an accuracy trainer, and (6) as a game partner. (FL)

Suggests eight steps for training teachers to use computers, including establishing a computer committee, structuring and budgeting for inservice courses, cooperating with other schools, and sending some teachers to the computer company's maintenance and repair school. Lists 25 computer skills teachers need and describes California and Minnesota…

Using motion picture quality video and sound, videodisc-based materials can provide highly motivating course segments for second language learning and fit in well with modern theories of language acquisition. Under microcomputer control, such materials can be highly interactive and individualized, and good prospects exist for future reductions in…

Discusses advantages and disadvantages of the Apple microcomputer version of the authoring language Programmed Inquiry, Learning, or Teaching (PILOT) and provides suggestions as to how it might best be used for computer- assisted instruction. Eleven references are cited. (EJS)

Outlines functions of a computer program designed to schedule assigned student usage of available microcomputers. Input and output format, editing, and use of the program to teach programing techniques are discussed. (EJS)