Reviews five computer programs and compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM) products designed to improve students' reading and problem-solving skills: (1) "Reading Realities" (Teacher Support Software); (2) "Kid Rhymes" (Creative Pursuits); (3) "First-Start Biographies" (Troll Associates); (4) "My Silly CD of ABCs" (Discis Classroom Editions); and…

Reviews three software programs appropriate for preschool children. "Millie & Bailey Preschool" by Edmark covers early concepts in language and math. "Jumpstart Preschool" from Knowledge Adventure offers 20 activities, including songs, and it tracks each child's progress. "Reader Rabbit's Preschool" by The Learning Company introduces preschoolers…

Examines the evolution of multimedia simulation games on floppy disk and CD-ROM, and reviews uses of simulation games for education and entertainment. Discusses what is involved in building, marketing, and playing simulated games. Examples of game screens are displayed throughout the article, and a sidebar lists companies mentioned in the article.…

Introduces two microfilm collections, one on the Indian Wars of the 19th century and one on records of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and four CD-ROM references focusing on Amnesty International, multicultural America, Latin American studies, and North American Indians. (SLD)

Profiles new CD-ROM technologies for middle schoolers, in the fields of mathematics and science, aimed at motivating and holding student interest. Describes three titles (Math Heads, Sunny Math, and The Ultimate 3-D Skeleton) in terms of manufacturer, capabilities, platform, and price. Several additional titles are described more briefly. (SD)

Discusses reasons why K-12 school libraries should purchase multimedia CD-ROMs and reviews 4 interactive CD-ROM encyclopedias based on interface, search capabilities, printing and presentation, product support, and overall educational value. Provides example computer screens and a comparison of the reviewed CD-ROMs. (Author/JMV)

An evaluation of a CD-ROM multimedia component of a first grade science curriculum, the IBM/CTW "Through the Woods," is presented. The presentation offers hands-on activities related to forest ecology, such as virtual nature walks. Children participating in the study (n=95) displayed ability to use the technology, a high degree of affect…

Provides reviews of two CD-ROM products currently available for social studies education. Describes the content, technical requirements, and instructional strategies of "Who Built America?" and "The Revolutionary War." Also contains a review of a videotape about the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. (CFR)

Describes how a 2-volume history textbook was translated into a 453 "page" CD-ROM product. Discusses how primary sources and graphics were combined with text to create an electronic textbook. Concludes that a major motivation for experimenting with this new technology was aimed at democratizing historical understanding. (CFR)