The goals of this study were to understand the expectations of both designers and teachers for the design and use of packages that integrate computer and television technologies, and to investigate the implementation of these packages in the classroom. Interviews were conducted with eight designers of "The Voyage of the Mimi" (MIMI), a…

This study examined the effects of feedback, the correctness of response, and response confidence within the context of computer-assisted instruction (CAI). The subjects were 120 students enrolled in the four computer literacy classes at the University of Texas. The instructional material on the human eye involved 30 program frames with three…

A study was undertaken to determine the effects of a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program on the self-concept of mainstreamed, mildly handicapped fifth-grade students (labeled learning disabled, emotionally conflicted, and educable mentally retarded) attending 13 different elementary schools in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. A control group…

A discussion of computer authoring systems examines the uses and limitations of authoring systems and describes a multifunctional system designed for computer-assisted language instruction and learning. The section on authoring systems in general looks at their evolution and at misunderstandings of their potential and capacity. The system…

Several years ago, the English faculty at the Schuylkill Campus of Pennsylvania State University entered into a cooperative venture with the campus learning center to use computer-assisted instruction in the basic rules of grammar as part of the remedial English course. The software used for the lab is the Houghton Mifflin English Microlab…

This paper considers the possibilities of using computers not only to amplify, but to reorganize children's thinking and mental functioning. These two different conceptualizations of the transformational role of noncomputer cognitive technologies (such as written language) in human intelligence and cognitive change are sketched, and the different…

At Cuyahoga Community College (Ohio), computer-controlled interactive videodisc technology is being used as one of several instructional methods to teach anatomy and physiology. The system has the following features: audio-visual instruction, interaction with immediate feedback, self-pacing, fill-in-the-blank quizzes for testing total recall,…

In order to investigate the effects of computer technology on the composing processes of students in grades 8 and 12, a study compared students' writing in two conditions (writing by pen and writing by word processor), specifically addressing the questions of whether computer use led to an increase in revision and/or an improvement in quality.…

Microcomputer software can provide excellent drill and practice, simulations, and problem-solving. Yet, software developers often have designed elaborate graphics and unique characters in lieu of sound instructional programming. Many instructional programs for learning-disabled students do not provide appropriate reading levels, the opportunity to…

This study tested the effectiveness of a typing tutorial in teaching keyboarding skills to middle- and upper-grade elementary school students in both supervised and unsupervised environments. Subjects were 56 students enrolled in grades three through six, who were divided into two groups, supervised and unsupervised, and subdivided by grade (third…

Some emerging patterns in educational computing permit speculation about future trends in educational computer hardware, software, and applications. Ultimately, three types of hardware units will be used by schools: professional systems, personal computers (microcomputers), and a new generation of inexpensive personal computers that can be…

Although some aspects of the educational effects of computer assisted instruction (CAI) are still unclear, some research findings are now quite definite. Two meta-analysis reviews of CAI have been completed at the University of Michigan, one on secondary school teaching and one on college teaching, and their findings have been independently…

Described in these four contributions to a discussion group are options open to publishers and purchasers to improve textbooks and textbook selection. The first contribution (by Robert L. Brunelle) briefly introduces the discussion and stresses the urgency of creating higher standards for textbooks as part of overall educational reforms. The…

This study develops a model for introducing computers into the schools of the County of Grande Prairie, Alberta (Canada), and by extension into any small school system. Data were gathered from three sources: questionnaires to superintendents and school staff, onsite visits to schools needing computer instruction, and literature on the issues and…

This bulletin provides a discussion of the impact of microcomputer technology and functions as a guide for administrators. It examines issues administrators must address if they are to take an active role in implementing computer programs in their schools. Chapter 2 examines hardware evaluation and selection, giving recommendations on types of…