This article, based on the experiences of the Ainsworth (Oregon) Parent Teacher Association, offers a step-by-step guide for parents who wish to bring computers into their children's schools. Ways to build public and school support, do necessary planning and research, evaluate available equipment, and implement the program are suggested. (PP)

The editors of "Classroom Computer News" prepared this compendium of news and tips for using computers in the classroom. Topics include computer literacy, the benefits of classroom computer use, programing individualized education programs (IEPs), selecting courseware, the basics of microprocessors and new products. (Editor/SJL)

Authors explore ways of helping students improve their self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and value to an employer. Offers strategies from the world of work (customer satisfaction cards) and the world of dance (chorus line class that improves poise in job interviews). Suggests ways to find appropriate instructional materials for handicapped…

The MERL system, a four-component decision-making approach which evaluates media from a communications theory perspective, is useful to the health educator in evaluating media in a systematic and efficient manner. (Author/CMV)

Benefits for including popular culture resources in the school library resource center and classroom are that they provide entrees for communication and teaching; baselines of student knowledge; abundant and popular resources; opportunities for teaching critical thinking skills; and diversity. Discusses how teacher librarians can choose the most…

Describes a study that empirically identified individual preferences profiles to understand information-seeking behavior among professional groups for six selected information sources. Highlights include Social Judgment Analysis; the development of the survey used, a copy of which is appended; hypotheses tested; results of multiple regression…

The integration of videodisc technology into the elementary school science classroom is discussed. Stressed are the restructuring of the classroom, creating a positive learning atmosphere, and extending the roles of the teacher and the student. A checklist for successfully integrating videodiscs into the classroom is provided. (CW)

The advantages of the use of videodiscs in elementary school science are stressed. A basic videodisc system is described. Questions to ask before investing in a videodisc system are suggested. Teaching techniques using the videodisc are discussed. (CW)

Advantages and disadvantages of word processing as a tool for teaching written self-expression to students with learning disabilities are discussed, research on its effectiveness is examined, available word-processing programs are reviewed, and guidelines for software selection are provided. (Author/MSE)

At the beginning of each academic year, Shippensburg University (Pennsylvania) organizes small group book discussion sessions designed to draw freshmen into the academic culture and develop critical thought processes. Considerations in selecting books for discussion and in preparing for and orchestrating the sessions are outlined. Some unresolved…

The four basic criteria for the selection of library materials--quality, library relevancy, aesthetic and technical aspects, and cost--remain the same in the electronic era of information. What they mean and how they are used has changed. But even quality and cost, the two most controversial criteria, carry great importance for the responsible…

K-W-L, a strategy for active reading appropriate for secondary education, models the thinking needed when reading expository texts in all content areas. Using a chart, students recall what they know (K), decide what they want to learn (W), and identify what they have learned (L). Steps in teacher preparation, classroom presentation, and class…

Presents selection criteria for teachers to use when reviewing video materials for classroom use. Provides an annotated bibliography. (ASK)

Presents a research-based, classroom tested assessment tool, the Classroom Fluency Snapshot (CFS). Presents the case of one classroom in which a teacher uses the CFS as a pre- and post-assessment. Shares rich classroom examples, details of the teacher's interpretation, and instructional decision making along with ideas for instruction. (SG)

Compares the features, advantages, and disadvantages of two major software options available for designing web courses: (1) component, off-the shelf software that allows for creation of audio slide lectures, course materials, discussion forums, animations, synchronous chat groups, quiz creators, and electronic mail, and (2) integrated packages…