Argues that most school systems in the United States fit into one of the five evolutionary stages of computer use: initial experimentation, state legislative involvement, search for software, initial computer integration, and full integration. These stages are described and tips on how to choose the best computer software are given. (MBR)

Suggests educators who are not yet computer literate choose an alternative focus by learning to evaluate software and determine its potential for use in specific educational settings. Questions which should be asked when reviewing software on appropriate use, content, and characteristics are presented, along with a software evaluation checklist…

This guide discusses three critical steps in selecting microcomputer software and hardware: setting the context, software evaluation, and managing microcomputer use. Specific topics addressed include: (1) conducting an informal task analysis to determine how the potential user's time is spent; (2) identifying tasks amenable to computerization and…

Intended for administrators or teachers with no prior knowledge of microcomputer applications in education, this document answers frequently asked questions about microcomputers focusing specifically on the use of microcomputers for computer assisted instruction (CAI), drill and practice, and instructional games. Background information covers…

The purpose of this focused newsletter is to give teachers who know little or nothing of computers some background on which to base further investigation and decisions. It begins by explaining what a computer is and defining such terms as software, hardware, memory, input/output devices, and disk drive. The newsletter then outlines four major uses…

Because technology is changing so fast, it is hard to plan for the use of computers. The author offers advice for schools planning to choose and implement computer technology. Considered are: classroom and administrative uses, peripheral equipment selection, and budgeting. (JMK)

Arranged in six sections, this booklet provides teachers and administrators with basic information and resources on the educational uses of the microcomputer. Section 1 uses a question and answer format to address concerns teachers frequently have about the effects of computer education on their teaching. Questions covered include effects on…

This book is directed to any educator who is interested in the use of the computer to improve classroom instruction. It is a book about the materials, human factors, and decision-making procedures that make up the instructional application of computers. This document's single goal is to promote educators' thoughtful selection and use of both…

Resources and recommendations are presented to aid teachers in using microcomputers for instructional purposes. Sections in this guide include: (1) an overview of what a computer is and how it works; (2) recommendations for microcomputer care and operation; (3) guidelines for teacher training including who should be trained, the type and amount of…

The seven sections in this volume analyze ways to strengthen the educational impact of microcomputers in the schools and to maximize their potential as important learning and instruction tools. The following papers are included: (1) "Human Cognition and the Use of New Technologies" (Richard Mayer); (2) "Don't Bother Me with…

Checklists cover six important dimensions of computer use in social studies: (1) what a computer can do to achieve educational goals, (2) planning for implementation, (3) major modes of computer uses in education, (4) important qualities, (5) technical features of good educational computer programs, and (6) checking out software. (RM)

Presents procedures for a needs assessment where the instructional situation is identified and instructionally oriented needs are expressed through an instructional requirements matrix, as well as a description of the capabilities of microcomputers and their relationship to various instructional activities. A survey of microcomputers and their…

This collection of eight papers is designed to assist educators in becoming computer literate and in identifying and developing competencies necessary to implement microcomputers in K-12 classrooms. For the novice, it contains an overview of computers, a discussion of their use in daily life and in education, and coverage of important terms and…

This report presents findings and recommendations of an investigation that surveyed and evaluated the current educational situation in South Africa and offered recommendations on the use of computers in education and training. The following concerns are discussed: computers in formal and nonformal education; strategies for the introduction of…

This document provides guidelines for the preparation of school district plans for implementation of the microcomputer instructional programs recommended for Arkansas high schools. Introductory materials include a history and description of the Instructional Microcomputer Project for Arkansas Classrooms (IMPAC), results of a state-wide…