Examines the relative merits of using computer networks (several computers linked together and sharing a single disk drive) and stand-alone systems (self-contained units operating independently) in Australian primary school classrooms. Advances several arguments favoring stand-alone systems, which improve accessibility and enhance individual…

The advantages of microcomputer networks include resource sharing, multiple user communications, and integrating data processing and office automation. This article nonetheless favors stand-alone computers for Australian secondary school classrooms because of unreliable hardware, software design, and copyright problems, and individual progress…

Presents specific guidelines for designing instructional programs that will be delivered on microcomputers so that these programs will use the capacity of the microcomputer system in a way that will develop in learners a range of cognitive skills and help learners to evolve useful learning strategies. (Author)

Designed to serve as a self-paced computer course for education students with no experience using microcomputers, this manual contains instructions for operating an Apple IIe microcomputer, its introductory software, and Bank Street Writer, using the DOS 3.3 System Master. The lessons, which contain illustrations and sample screens, include…

A computer program that can be easily modified to offer individualized drill, practice, or remediation is presented. How the program operates is described, and how to modify it for numerical order, number sequences, number words, inequalities, basic operations, percents, decimals, fractions, and measurement is noted. (MNS)

This paper focuses on item design considerations faced by instructional designers and evaluators when using computer videodisc delivery systems as a means of assessing learner comprehension and competencies. Media characteristics of various interactive computer/videodisc training systems are briefly discussed as well as reasons for using such…

The authors cite specific ways that the classroom computer can aid the teacher, by providing a wide variety of independent instruction for students and by cutting down the time required for recordkeeping, testing, and other administrative tasks. (Author/SJL)

Both the Apple and TRS-80 microcomputer units are being used in the department of physical education at George Mason University (Virginia). As a first step, a computer program was developed and used in conjunction with an aerobic and personal conditioning class. (The capabilities of this specific program are discussed, and the ways in which it was…

This guide addresses the applicability of microcomputers to adult vocational training and presents guidelines for creating and evaluating software that specifically addresses adult learning needs. The author first discusses the appropriateness of microcomputers as educational and prevocational tools. She highlights those qualities that are the…

The computer's role in matching instructional content and method to the learning disabled student's individual cognitive style is examined for the four phases of instructional delivery: assessment, prescription, evaluation, and instruction. (DB)

Educational videodiscs can provide effective instruction, but the cost of hardware needed to perform the desired system functions have been a limiting factor in videodisc use in the classroom. However, many videodisc applications can be adequately and effectively approached with much less than the ideal system, and very little attention has been…

Describes a series of computer programs that use simulation and gaming techniques to present the basic principles of the central dogma of molecular genetics, mutation, and the genetic code. A history of discoveries in molecular biology is presented and the evolution of these computer assisted instructional programs is described. (MBR)

A program was developed using computer-assisted instruction to enable gifted primary-level students to learn the basic elements of note reading in the treble clef at individual speeds and without stress of competition. The target group was selected from students enrolled in beginning and advanced ukulele classes. The computer-assisted instruction…

The use of two types of commercially available Apple computer educational software in English for the development of accuracy and fluency in students of English as a second language is described. One type of program is aimed at the drilling and practice of grammar in English. Some of these programs have interesting formats and allow the teacher to…

The introduction to the special section on microcomputers in special education reviews the trend toward increasing computer use, raises such issues as the need for special educators to provide leadership in the use of computers for individualized instruction, and summarizes remaining articles in the section. (DB)