The effectiveness of two spelling software programs on the weekly spelling performance of underachieving elementary students was studied. Students learned the programs, and data were collected over the school year. Data analyses indicated both programs generated higher accuracy in spelling than traditional procedures. Students sustained the…

Describes the operation of a graduate level statistics course based on computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Course content and student reactions are discussed, course evaluations are reported, problems involved with moving the courseware to different computer systems are described, and the CAI run-time system is explained. (10 references) (LRW)

Argues that educational computing is a discipline and discusses issues that need to be addressed in this discipline, including similarities with experimental psychology; networks and integrated learning systems; problem-solving software versus domain-specific software; computer labs versus classroom integration; software quality; computer equity;…

Discussion of educational computer simulations focuses on the parallel instruction theory that was developed at the University of Twente to combine the simulation with instructional materials, including those that may be printed. The MacTHESIS design system and philosophy are discussed, and simulation and learning environments based on the…

Describes a project that addressed the problem of courseware reusability by developing a database structure suitable for organizing multimedia learning material in a given content domain. A prototype system that allows browsing a DBLM (Data Base of Learning Material) on earth science is described, and future plans are discussed. (five references)…

Considers the role of educational technology in two views of the school reform movement: one that demands more from the existing educational system, and one that calls for restructuring of the existing system. The effectiveness of technology is addressed, models for technology use are described, and technology and constructivism are discussed. (31…

This article considers the importance of using age-appropriate software for adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities and the difficulty in finding such software. It outlines suggested sources, ideas for screening and evaluating software, and seven steps in selecting software. (DB)

Describes microcomputer-based courseware designed for the simulation of the microbiological analysis of drinking water, including digitalized color images. The use of HyperCard is described and evaluation procedures are explained, including evaluation of the learning and of the class. The evaluation questionnaires are appended. (20 references)…

Discussion of computers and new information technology in developing countries focuses on China. Highlights include information technology as a tool for national development or as a tool for dependency; Chinese informatics policy; computers in Chinese secondary education; the development of educational software; teacher training; and computer…

Discusses curriculum changes necessary to use technology in an introductory statistics course, including outline of the curriculum, grading, use of statistical software, relevance to current events, use of writing, objectives, working in teams, data summary, data analysis, and exams. (MKR)

Microcomputers in education are only valuable if there is software to stimulate each specific student. Teachers must understand each student's learning style then use computer software to meet individual needs. Students should become aware of their individual learning preferences and apply specific techniques to acquire knowledge more efficiently.…

Describes a project designed to help high school language students learn about French-speaking countries that uses HyperCard and telecommunications capabilities and can be adapted to other related curriculum areas. Highlights include cooperative group work using the Internet and creating HyperCard stacks. (three references.) (LRW)

Describes an interactive multimedia Business Practices Course, developed to help reengineer point-of-need training for professional development, in which the learner conducts a business review of a company's current operations and makes recommendations to improve productivity and increase customer satisfaction. (six references) (LRW)

Introduces the concept of abductive reasoning; discusses its importance for instructional designers in education; and describes the development of a computer program called the Abductive Reasoning Tool (ART) that helps students learn and understand abductive logic. Highlights include abduction and creativity, and field-testing ART with…

Describes a survey that was conducted to identify the range of software programs in use in a sample of higher education institutions, examine usage patterns, and identify those programs reported as most useful to students, including foreign students. Gender differences and perceptions of Macintosh versus IBM hardware are also considered. (LRW)