Researchers studying the educational uses of computers can learn from the mistakes of television research. They should: avoid asking whether computers teach better than other media; utilize holistic as well as standard experimental paradigms; and realize that when learners encounter a new medium, a wide range of usages and outcomes should be…

Recommends viewing the computer as a tool and addresses several questions educators need to ask about the use of computers in the classroom, including how they should be used, the number of machines needed, and how much work should actually be done at the computers. (FL)

Advice for educational applications of computers and predictions for society given by participants at a technology conference are quoted in this summary. (MJL)

Considerations in purchasing microcomputer hardware and software for the education of severely handicapped students are reviewed, including service availability, ability to individualize instruction, and the accompanying documentation. Sources of resistance from potential users are noted. (CL)

The article describes the use of the Dynamic Audio Video Instructional Device (DAVID), designed to provide receptive sign language practice via interactive television for the staff at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. Examples of lessons are presented to illustrate principles of interactive computer assisted video instructional…

A computer assisted tutoring program developed at the Southwest Collegeate Institute for the Deaf is designed to improve deaf students' active vocabulary. An improvement of up to 60 percent in understanding science concepts has been observed among users of the program. (Author/CL)

This article discusses the need for teachers and teacher educators to incorporate technological literacy in training programs. The use of computers in schools is here to stay, and teachers should provide for their use in curriculum planning and other areas. (Author/CJB)

Microcomputers can serve a variety of functions in the special education classroom, including drill and practice, tutoring, music composition and theory, communication aids, and data management. Special educators must make informed choices in selecting, adapting, or writing their own software (lists of authoring tools and software resources are…

Computers can be used to help develop physical proficiency in the handicapped student if appropriate software is used. Suggested computer use for various educational purposes includes sports games, assessment, simulation, and accommodation of severe disabilities. (DF)

Both practical and irrational factors will substantially delay the widespread use of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in Australia's schools, including the following: lack of suitable software, insufficient hardware, ignorance of what CAI offers, lack of expert advice, computer anxiety, reaction against computer zealots, and resistance to…

The section includes four articles on the use of computers for gifted students. Topics covered include basic information for parents, care and operating routines, a curriculum guide for computer literacy, the computer's role in problem solving, and computer applications for mathematically gifted students. (CL)

Argues that computer assisted instruction is valuable and suggests that teachers begin to develop software and share it with colleagues. Offers examples of such efforts. (FL)

Points out that although there are thousands of software programs available to support educational applications, there is a paucity of suitable courseware. An in-place system for proper evaluation of courseware that, to date, has "approved" more than 200 computer-assisted instructional programs is described. (JN)

Presents specific practical suggestions about evaluating and selecting word processing programs and text editing programs for students learning to write on microcomputers. (CRH)

The article describes ways in which learning disabled students can use simple database management and word processing programs as active users. Involvement in these types of computer applications allows the user to be an active, creative communicator. (CL)