Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of digital television signals as opposed to analog signals and considers how "going digital" might affect existing analog instructional television systems. The costs, quality, and flexibility of using digital television signals are examined. (MER)

Discusses problems of achieving balance and objectivity in dealing with the energy crisis, and suggests guidelines for unbiased film selection. (CMV)

The author briefly describes selected instructional media--excluding films--on the geography, history, art, culture, and everyday life of China. Grade levels and ordering sources are provided. This is one of several articles on China studies appearing in this issue. (SJL)

Offers some new approaches to film previewing designed to save time and money for both film distributors and users. (FL)

Provides necessary characteristics to consider when selecting a CAI system plus a list of costs and capabilities available with the better known CAI systems. Characteristics of major CAI systems are presented in three categories--large/maxi, mini, and micro systems--in chart form. (JEG)

Industry-produced materials may reveal reprehensible bias. (DS)

An inquiry model of material development and selection for special education teachers is presented. The following selection guidelines are described: identify the target population; define the purpose of the material; consider the format, methodology, and construction of the material; and determine how the material is to be used. An example of an…

Planning is needed to make most effective use of educational media. This should include both training teachers in its use and selecting the right media and materials. (LS)

What to consider before making selections. (LS)

Describes a tool for finding texts that match children's decoding skills. Begins with an overview of current thinking and research on the use of decodable text in beginning reading instruction. Presents five steps to show how teachers can locate decodable texts that match and supplement their phonics instruction. (SG)

Suggests that in addition to using books and movies to enhance students' understanding of Shakespeare, teachers can add the World Wide Web to their repertoire to help students connect to Shakespeare. Presents annotations of 12 websites to use for teaching Shakespeare. (SG)

The author provides guidelines for developing open learning materials. Guidelines include (1) provide an easy to use format, (2) keep learners mentally active, (3) allow for individual differences, (4) use the learners' experience, (5) provide a measure of learning, and (6) provide support for the learner. (CH)

The role of the evaluator in the decision-making process is discussed. Topics covered include identification of decision makers and decision-making processes, delineation of informational needs, identification of the various media and forums for evaluation ideas, and definition of functions that evaluators serve. (TJH)

Discusses design, technology, human, vendor, and cost factors to be considered in choosing a multimedia instruction system for widespread adoption. A checklist of criteria in these areas is included. (MES)

Discusses how to choose the medium or media to communicate technical information, how to combine and integrate media, and what the user can use. (SR)