Presents objections to the use of special-purpose computer languages for authoring courseware and recommends use of authoring procedures with a general-purpose language (in this case PASCAL). Highlights include problems in designing computer assisted instruction, developments in educational theory, a summary of modern authoring languages, and…

Reviews the availability and use of educational software in elementary and secondary education. Topics discussed include the slow growth of software purchased by schools, programs that support the curriculum, word processing, tutorials, and trends toward networking and MS-DOS compatible software. (LRW)

Briefly reviews current research on the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and microcomputers. The Hawthorne Effect and research results for elementary, secondary, and college level students are discussed, courseware requirements are described, and research studies showing positive and negative effects of CAI are listed. (LRW)

This article first explains a "number trick" using algebra and then extends the ideas by use of a computer program. (PK)

Special Education administrators (N=33) responded to a comprehensive survey on their use of microcomputers. Decision-making policies and practices indicated high levels of cooperation between special and regular education programs in acquiring hardware and software and in providing teacher training. Implications for subsequent directions for…

This is the appendix to Ranger Rick's "Nature Scope, Volume 2, Number 4, Amazing Animals, Part II." Includes a glossary of terms, a list of 23 questions about the volume's articles, a bibliography, and a cross-reference of articles from "Ranger Rick" magazine which deals with the same animals in this volume. (TW)

Describes a computer program, "Activation Energy," which is designed for use in physical chemistry classes and can be modified for kinetic experiments. Provides suggestions for instruction, sample program listings, and information on the availability of the program package. (ML)

Explains how self-produced software can be used to perform rapid number analysis or number-crunching duties in geology classes. Reviews programs in mineralogy and petrology and identifies areas in geology where computers can be used effectively. Discusses the advantages and benefits of integrating department-generated software into a geology…

Describes an interactive, self-prompting BASIC program that can be incorporated in introductory and intermediate hydrology courses. Exlains how the program can be used to evaluate pumping test data and also to calculate transmissivity and storativity values of confined aquifers. The program is written for the IBM PC. (ML)

Describes three microcomputer programs that allow geology students to deform two-dimensional images on a computer screen and then to measure changes in angular relationships. Two of the programs simulate pure and simple shear and the third simulates variations in shear strain that occur in shear zones. (ML)

Describes: (1) an interactive computer simulation for a science fair display of chromatography inks; (2) analytical chemistry programs; (3) microcomputer-assisted drills in organic synthesis; (4) programs for conformation analysis of ethane and butane; (5) MOLPIX--a program for generating and displaying molecular structures; and (6) chemical…

Reviews the advances happening in computer technology and the challenges to educators. Identifies the barriers that need to be confronted, problems to be faced, and courseware needs. (MD)

Outlines the current status of computer hardware and software available to educators. Presents two very different, but possible, scenarios for the future of computers in education. (MD)

Describes "Experiments in Chemistry," in which experiments are performed using software and hardware interfaced to the Apple microcomputer's game paddle port. Experiments include temperature, pH electrode, and EMF (cell potential determinations, oxidation-reduction titrations, and precipitation titrations) investigations. (JN)

This annual guide provides information on recommended software programs and multimedia applications for K-12 use. An introductory section describes the evaluation process and lists the highest-rated programs for 1998-99. The program entries are organized by the following subject areas: the arts, early childhood, health, language arts, mathematics,…