Describes a new model for evaluating instructional software that focuses on the extent to which students learn the skills a software package is intended to teach. Results of a field test of fifth grade students are reported, and implications of the initial evaluation of the model are discussed. (14 references) (LRW)

Discusses computer labs in schools and argues that they are not effective in integrating computers into the curriculum. Highlights include acquiring computer skills for computer-related classroom activities; the quality of courseware; and a case study of a sixth grade social studies lesson that integrated the computer into classroom activities.…

Elementary error estimation in the approximation of functions by polynomials as a computational assignment, error-bounding functions and error bounds, and the choice of interpolation points are discussed. Precalculus and computer instruction are used on some of the calculations. (KR)

Discussed is the use, importance, and availability of programmed algebraic manipulation packages. The general power summation formula is presented and an example using a programed numerical verification package is provided. (KR)

Described is software which allows a student to use simulation to produce analytical output as well as graphical results. The results include a frequency histogram of a selected population distribution, a frequency histogram of the distribution of the sample means, and test the normality distributions of the sample means. (KR)

Describes the use of a working conference to train teachers and education students to use the computer in mathematics education. Group work is discussed that focuses on two main components of the conference--software evaluation and lesson creation; and adaptations for Eastern European schools with few computer resources are described. (Contains…

Describes a cross-disciplinary program at Mississippi State University that incorporates computer-aided art and design education into a new field called computational design. Curricula basics are explained; introductory and advanced courses are described; the use of computer networks is discussed; and possibilities for graduate study are explored.…

Sixteen at-risk minority children in a preschool program were tested to assess their performance in programming with LOGO Plus software. When programming concepts and the command structure were presented at developmentally appropriate levels, the subjects performed as well as other samples of preschoolers. The minority children did not exhibit any…

Reviews research involving the LOGO computer programming language and its effect on children's achievement in mathematics, language arts, and problem solving, as well as social-emotional development. Identifies some of the unique characteristics of LOGO that may contribute to student learning. (MDM)

Uses Derive as an instructional tool to investigate asymptotic behavior of rational functions. Activities focus on reducing manipulation and computation and on generating multiple examples to focus on discovery of the concept rather than a summary of rules. (MLN)

Asserts that the power and prices of computers have changed dramatically in recent years. Reviews 10 approaches to using computers in geographic instruction. Includes a 10-item questionnaire to determine whether teachers are using computers effectively. (CFR)

The study compared the levels of response of children aged 9 to 11 to angle/rotation problems presented on screen in a LOGO microworld with levels of response to similar problems presented on paper. Results suggest that immediate feedback from the screen turtle inhibited moves to higher levels of response. (Author/MDH)

Describes a recently developed microcomputer-based farm management game called AgVenture. The objective of the program is to allow students to practice making management decisions for a model crop farm to teach risk management and reinforce traditional farming management principles. (MDH)

Describes how spreadsheets can be used for helping students learn about direct current electrical circuits. (PR)

Contends that students in spatial analysis courses generally are familiar with computer use and programs but lack basic computer programing skills. Describes four exercises in which students learn programing using BASIC and dBASE. Asserts that programming exercises help students clarify concepts, understand the rationale behind calculations, use…