This paper addresses the reasons that it is difficult to find good educational software and proposes measures for coping with this problem. The fundamental problem is a shortange of educational software that can be used as a major part of the teaching of academic subjects in elementary and secondary schools--a shortage that is both the effect and…

Spider World is an interactive program designed to help individuals with no previous computer experience to learn the fundamentals of programming. The program emphasizes cognitive tasks which are central to programming and provides significant problem-solving opportunities. In Spider World, the user commands a hypothetical robot (called the…

The role of copyright and other limitations on use of educational software and the effective training of teachers to utilize changing technology were the focus of the third and final session of a 1983 series of educational technology review panels. Daniel Brooks and Michael Remington discussed the current and changing status of copyright…

An evaluation was conducted of an Illinois Department of Curriculum and Instruction inservice course on microcomputer utilization. Designed to provide educators with preliminary knowledge and experience pertaining to educational uses of microcomputers, the course focused on hardware, software, philosophy, methodology, utilization modes and…

The use of Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS), a type of microcomputer application software, to analyze open-ended survey questions is discussed. Using open-ended questions allows researchers to ask respondents to express themselves freely about their attitudes and beliefs. This approach also can elicit a precise answer even though the…

A microcomputer spreadsheet software package can be used for a variety of tasks to manage a program or research project and to cut costs in evaluation. LOTUS 1 2 3 is a versatile, commonly available, and well-known electronic spreadsheet package. Spreadsheets were originally designed to emulate financial ledgers and balance sheets. They are useful…

This annotated bibliography and resource list is the fourth guide in a series that constitutes a handbook on educational computing for teachers and administrators. Citations include the title, author, publisher, copyright date, current price, and publisher's address. Research and journal articles are listed under the following topic areas:…

The first of three parts of a computer awareness program for grades K-9, this guide includes objectives, implementation suggestions, and varied student activity worksheets for a five-unit, primary computer literacy program. A program overview includes the program rationale, goals, description and development, time allotment, and objectives for K-3…

This report details the design, development, and implementation of computer software to support the cost-effective production of computer assisted instruction (CAI) within the context of the Advanced Instructional System (AIS) located at Lowry Air Force Base. The report supplements the computer managed Air Force technical training that is…

MARC (Methodical Assessment of Reports by Computer) is a report-marking program which enables teachers to provide individualized feedback on reports written by engineering students. The MARC system is objective in its consistent application of the same programed criteria, but also allows individual markers to supply their own comments as required.…

A survey of 328 educators to determine trends in administrative computing shows that most administrators have microcomputers, and the most popular use of computers is for keeping student records. Hardware and peripheral equipment currently used and being considered for purchase are described, and budget information is also presented. (LRW)

Presents the history of the development of computer-assisted composition (CAC) software and notes the problems with reserving some software for "basic" students while "brighter" students can use more complex modeling or simulation software. Concludes that, from experience with basic writers' success with the programs, there are some benefits to…

Describes the design of a microcomputer-based system at the University of Ottawa which provides teachers with the capabilities of computerized slides and transparencies. The slides are texts created with word processors which are presented to the class via a large screen video projector, and software provides regular overhead projector functions.…

Examines the need for medium to large academic libraries to have a policy for staff use of microcomputers. Key issues that should be covered in such a policy are outlined, including rules for acquisition and use, compatibility of hardware and software, and data administration. A model policy is provided. (CDD)

Describes the National Agricultural Library's microcomputer-based expert system, which is designed to help users obtain answers to simple reference questions. Building of the system and its linking to external programs and systems are explained, and building of a total information system is proposed. Samples of the program are provided. (CDD)