Summarizes the results of five studies dealing with screen design for computer-based instruction (CBI) and provides suggestions for their application as well as future directions for research. Chunking, text density, and screen density are discussed as variables in screen design, and current research is described. (33 references) (LRW)

Muppet Slate, a writing program used on Apple computers, is described, along with its successful integration into a kindergarten language arts program. Students can write original stories illustrated with a choice of 126 pictures. Utilities enable teachers to customize the program to meet student needs. (IAH)

New instructional materials for social studies are briefly described, including six textbooks, a software game, two filmstrips, and two books about teaching methods. (CB)

Although many of the criteria used to evaluate traditional instructional materials can be applied to the instructional aspects of computer-assisted instruction, additional criteria must be considered. These include interactivity, individualized feedback, rapid calculation, graphics, and cost-effectiveness. (JOW)

A qualitative, holistic framework is presented for the process of evaluating foreign language software. Eleven specific steps are outlined, and a list of educational software evaluation agencies is appended. (Contains 21 references.) (LB)

Discusses computational tools for learning programming and describes a system that was developed to help university students acquire the capability to model computational problems independently of a specific programming language. User-system interaction is explained; and system architecture is described, including specification acquisition, a…

This paper advocates the use of symbolic computation packages as another aid in teaching geometry. The need for such packages and their use in computerized proofs are demonstrated by a problem in high school planar geometry. (LZ)

Provides brief descriptions of interactive tutorial and simulation programs for reading, writing, and mathematics; and of drill-and-practice courseware packages. (DMM)

Presents brief annotations and evaluative comments on various instructional media. Discusses filmstrips, computer software, and other instructional materials. Includes materials about dinosaurs, Native Americans, Congress, and the Vietnam War. Describes new technological resources for education. Provides information on availability. (DK)

Contains tips from readers about using technology in the classroom, including notebook computers, classroom sets of calculators, geometry software, LOGO software, publisher discounts, curriculum materials in CD-ROM, and volunteer help in computers and computer networking for schools. (MKR)

Considers the concept of virtual reality; reviews its history; describes general uses of virtual reality, including entertainment, medicine, and design applications; discusses classroom uses of virtual reality, including a software program called Virtus WalkThrough for use with a computer monitor; and suggests future possibilities. (34 references)…

Discusses the changes that technology has brought to the music classroom. Argues that the need for change is crucial for understanding technology, in its application, and for the resulting process of education. Compares computer-assisted instruction with technology-based education. Suggests that rather than technology degrading the arts, the arts…

Discusses the use of interactive media in computer-based training and describes a workbook and software package--Interactive Toolkit--designed for students learning to use interactive media. The package covers the basics of instructional design and how interactive media works, and a simple authoring system for creating computer-based training…

Discussion of multilingual teaching environments focuses on the development of instructional software that is able to change the language of the on-screen presentation. Benefits for second-language learning are discussed, programing methods are explained, and an example of a software program in English and in German is given. (LRW)

Introduces and demonstrates a quick-prototyping model for educational software development that can be used by teachers developing their own courseware using an object-oriented programming system. Development of a courseware package called "The Match-Maker" is explained as an example that uses HyperCard for quick prototyping. (Contains…