Argues that computers can be used by reading teachers in a number of ways, including (1) as a diagnostic test administrator, (2) as a target for student hostility, (3) as a "tutee" for poor readers, (4) as a conversationalist, (5) as an accuracy trainer, and (6) as a game partner. (FL)

Maintains that the use of computers in the classroom produces motivated students, empowered learners, and increased literacy. Gives an example of the computer program "The Oregon Trail" in which students participate actively in a wagon train journey from Missouri to Oregon. Urges teachers to encourage students in their mastery of computer skills.…

How microcomputers can be used in the elementary social studies classroom to teach and reinforce new concepts, to relieve teachers of a variety of time-consuming chores, and to motivate students to produce creative projects is discussed. (RM)

The author suggests the computer simulation game as a powerful motivational and teaching tool in many grades and subject areas. He briefly describes a few social studies and science computer simulation games. (SJL)

Recognizes the potential for computers in the classroom and delineates stringent guidelines for writing and selecting programs that will stimulate and challenge students rather than stifle and bore them. (CRH)

Language teachers are urged to explore, develop, and use the entire range of applications made possible by the computer and to realize that the computer can do almost anything but generate ideas. (MSE)

Explains the use of experimental poetry forms for decoding practice to help develop reading skills in elementary school students. The use of computers for word processing capabilities is discussed; seven forms of poetry are described; and results are examined in terms of motivation and the development of literacy. (four references) (LRW)

This publication describes Monsters Make Believe, a computer-based, teacher-developed program for enhancing reading and writing instruction in the elementary grades. Motivation to read and write is provided by the creation of monsters. The software can even offer a vehicle that is able to write a descriptive paragraph. An overview describes a…

Describes the use of microcomputer demonstrations as a motivating tool in a college psychology course that uses a mastery-based Personalized System of Instruction (PSI). The eight modules that make up the course and the 14 computer-oriented programs associated with them are explained, and an appendix includes student instructions. (eight…

Provides a direct instruction strategy for teaching skills and concepts required for database use. Creates an interactive environment which motivates, provides a model, imparts information, allows active student participation, gives knowledge of results, and presents guidance. (LS)

Points out that with LOGO, children can teach a computer to make shapes and patterns, including patterns with language, such as poems and sentences. (FL)

This paper recommends edutainment to engage students' senses and get them involved by presenting lessons in a way that makes education interesting and entertaining. Suggestions for creative edutainment include using exciting computer software, joining the Internet, hooking up to cable television, and providing a variety of magazines. (SM)

Using word processing in the elementary school writing curriculum is advantageous for both students and teachers. Word processors motivate students to spend more time on task, encourage changes and rewriting, and eliminate concern for neatness and the tedium of writing (and rewriting) by hand. Teachers can see that students using the word…

Asynchronous computer mediated learning (CML) provides a mechanism for student interaction that is unique among educational delivery systems. Collaborative interactive learning can lead to deeper learning than is possible without interaction among learners and may enable groups of learners to become more knowledgeable than the teacher in narrow…

Business needs in multinational corporations call for courses that involve problem solving and creating and sharing new knowledge based on workplace situations. The courses also need to be engaging for the participants. Blended learning at Shell International Exploration and Production involves these kinds of outcomes in courses designed around a…