Describes survey conducted among humanities faculty at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to assess their current use of and attitudes toward educational computing. Topics covered on the questionnaire include computer experience, skills and frequency of use, computer interest and anxiety, computer software, and use for instructional,…

Offers a method for interactive design of objects on a computer. Outlines a method which allows the designer to interact with orthogonal views to construct a three dimensional model of an arbitrary shape. Presents an algorithm based on the Bezier curves to efficiently create smooth curves and surfaces. (CW)

Describes the underlying pattern that, once seen, will allow students to describe the shape of any hydrogen orbital. Involves the exponential form of the orbitals. Provides computer-generated plots of this concept. (CW)

Reports on a study which investigated the effects of having students analyze circuits in the laboratory compared with troubleshooting from homework problems. Results indicated that laboratory experiences provide a richer learning experience than lecture and homework alone. (TW)

This article investigates two common methods of determining the line of best fit and then expands on the techniques used in these methods to find the line of best fit by graphing, estimating and using a microcomputer. (PK)

Demonstrates how a spreadsheet program can do calculations, freeing students to question, analyze data and learn science. Notes several popular spreadsheet programs. Gives an example using Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheets for a sampling experiment in Biology. Shows other examples of spreadsheet use in laboratory activities. (CW)

Argues that if computers are to play a role in language arts instruction, teachers need to reflect on their programs, selecting software congruent with children's interests as well as their teaching thrusts. Suggests using shell and database programs because they allow students to work with original ideas. (SRT)

A survey of 268 school psychologists was conducted to explore the nature and extent of ethical-legal problems associated with computer applications in school psychology. One third reported existing problems; 65 percent anticipated potential problems in test interpretation; and 62 percent anticipated problems with record-keeping. Suggestions for…

A study compared the vocabulary learning/use and social and communication growth of eight severely handicapped (six with Downs Syndrome) nonoral toddlers under two conditions; (1) a microcomputer-based approach; and (2) traditional language intervention techniques. Results indicated no differential effect for either treatment condition. (Author/CB)

Presents practical teaching suggestions selected from commercially available materials and also submitted by readers that can be easily adapted to different grade levels. Contains seven computer based ideas on topics such as computerized banking, database management, trigonometry applications, timing programs, keyboard use, and programming…

Describes the Scholar's Workstation project, a campuswide computerization project at Brown University, and assesses its effects on the role and operation of the institution's libraries. Suggestions are provided for other libraries whose institutions are exploring the possibility of a similar venture. (CLB)

Describes a framework for the construction of computer-aided learning programs and for the BBC microcomputer which has been used successfully as the basis of a set of genetics teaching programs called "Linkage." Includes program design principles and procedures. (ML)

Institutional policies are needed to guide the responsible use of data, especially in a decentralized operating environment. Factors that influence the development and implementation of policies for decentralized data use are explored. Data use, technological developments, and the needs and responsibilities of users and the institution must be…

Surveys the present status of science instructional software in the United States. Describes project efforts at the University of Pittsburgh on the development of intelligent tutoring systems (ITS). Explains the major components and provides microworld examples of ITS. Includes the software evaluation instrument and summarizes the evaluation…

Describes a new software package for the Apple Macintosh computer which can be used to create elaborate simulation models in a fraction of the time usually required without using a programming language. Illustrates the use of the software which relates to water usage. (TW)