Discusses four applications of the microcomputer to the classroom: (1) a program listing of how to draw circles on the Apple II computers; (2) using a database to help write stories; (3) switching computers with others while writing stories to encourage creativity; and (4) a listing of a LOGO kaleidoscope program. (MVL)

Explains how IBM and Apple microcomputers are being used in U.S. history survey courses at Johnson County Community College (Kansas). Discusses development of the program and the use of software such as "U.S. Constitution Tutor" and "Microstudy." Describes the courses and the computer-assisted-instruction modules designed to go…

Discusses the use of videodiscs in education and highlights four main areas of application: (1) direct instruction, or programed lessons; (2) instructional support, including teacher designed lessons and the use of visual aids; (3) independent research, which students may use in conjunction with traditional reference materials in the library; and…

Discusses the state of desktop publishing (DTP) in education today and describes the weaknesses of the systems available for use in the classroom. Highlights include document design and layout; text composition; graphics; word processing capabilities; a comparison of commercial and educational DTP packages; and skills required for DTP. (four…

Compares gains in reading rate and comprehension of students using traditional texts and those using a computer-based, commercially prepared, speed reading package. Offers recommendations for the use of computers in college reading courses, focusing on hardware/software needs and student/teacher responsibilities. (DMM)

A technical assistance project was designed to help special educators in Beijing (China) use computer technology with their students with visual impairments, hearing impairments, and mental retardation. Computers were donated to special education centers; software was gathered from American vendors and evaluated; and software applications were…

This study investigated the effects of manipulating design features of a computer-mediated text system, using 45 hearing-impaired subjects in grades four-six. A system design using motivational activities facilitated vocabulary knowledge and writing performance. Also analyzed were use of extrinsic motivational activities versus intrinsic, and…

Analyzes the responses to a questionnaire survey conducted at Liverpool University to determine the state of courseware development and the use of computer-based teaching (CBT) throughout the university. Highlights include the need for technical support; the need for collaboration and better communication to prevent duplication of effort; and time…

Describes the development of a hypertext-based library instruction program at Algonquin College (Ottawa) that used a shareware program called Simply Help! for developing help screens. Topics include a prototype program; pilot testing the library instruction, including faculty response and student surveys; and evaluation after full implementation.…

Describes several corporations' in-house produced interactive multimedia training methods that use video and CD-ROMs to simulate work activities. Reviews each training method's design, computer equipment, costs, benefits, and lessons learned. Lists 10 checkpoints for charting a successful interactive course and a sidebar presents a cost benefit…

Analyzes student use of a multimedia chemistry instructional program used in an undergraduate chemistry course. Examines student time spent on the software and student use of the software's media components. Finds that students have different usage patterns for completing the same assignment, indicating that students are able to use individual…

Two articles describe the use of computer software to help elementary students develop literacy and writing skills: the first article evaluates "Writing to Read" software, comparing its use in classrooms and in computer labs with traditional instruction; the second article discusses using "Writing to Write" software with third graders. (LRW)

Describes a preliminary evaluation of classroom use of compact disc interactive (CD-I) and Commodore Dynamic Total Vision (CDTV) interactive media systems. Information is provided on the pedagogical, operational, and logistical characteristics of these media compared to interactive video. Problems of poorly designed or inappropriate software and…

Discussion of the growth of electronic texts in the humanities focuses on issues that libraries should consider regarding collection development policies for electronic texts. Existing texts and applications are described; markup, or encoding schemes, are explained; cataloging is discussed; and software issues are considered. (Contains 27…

Argues that a mix of quantitative and qualitative measures is most efficacious in library collection analysis. Cases drawn from the literature in which a combination of these measures was profitably applied are considered, and the types of software packages for purposes of data manipulation are discussed. (Contains 15 references.) (KRN)