The nature of many computerized community bulletin boards is described. A system called Communitree is profiled as a version with many distinct advantages over generic bulletin board systems. It is felt that their strong points are carefully orchestrated details, and their weak points are intelligent compromises. (MP)

PILOT is the generic name of a programing language suited for authoring/executing CAI educational programing. The strengths/weaknesses of TRS-80 MicroPilot (formerly Pilot Plus) and differences between Micropilot and Basic and CAI courseware authoring languages are discussed. Major strength is efficiency for educational/interactive programing with…

Ways to use personal computers to simplify the task of identifying and describing the phonology, morphology, and syntax of a language are outlined. The actual programing is viewed as simple once a phonetic alphabet is defined and symbols to indicate parts of speech are chosen. (MP)

A traditional question is whether or not computers shall ever think like humans. This question is redirected to a discussion of whether computers shall ever be truly creative. Creativity is defined and a program is described that is designed to complete creatively a series problem in mathematics. (MP)

Responses to a recent survey of children's impressions of personal computers are provided. The views about computers in the classroom are thought to clearly show the ease pupils have with such machines in their daily lives. The students quoted are deemed enthusiastic, confident, and creative users. (MP)

Discusses the potential of microcomputers, indicating that, like an automobile, they can be used without knowing how they operate. Considers the microcomputer role in education, entertainment, telecommunications, and other areas such as artificial intelligence. (JN)

"Spelling Bee" is a computer program (Applesoft Basic), suitable for grades K-3, consisting of several "modes" and 11 units of spelling words. "Modes" include Demonstration (teacher preview of lessons), Learning Management (test preparation), Tutorial (student practice), and Drill (spelling test, which can be designed to meet individual student…

Discussion focuses on the nature of computer-generated speech and voice synthesis today. State-of-the-art devices for home computers are called text-to-speech (TTS) systems. Details about the operation and use of TTS synthesizers are provided, and the time saving in programing over previous methods is emphasized. (MP)

Reviews an authoring system for courseware development (Applesoft Basic) consisting of a programed template allowing preparation of instructional units composed of text, questions, and graphics. A higher-priced version includes a game. Geology, oceanography, space science, meteorology, human/plant anatomy, and cells/genetics diagrams are available…

It is felt that all the basic programing concepts can be taught by giving students experience with graphics. Students are viewed to be working on problems that truly interest them, rather than on the standard fare presented in most courses. A description of a class and a graphing program are included. (MP)

Discusses several computer languages (Atari Pilot and different versions of LOGO) supporting the turtle graphics mode. Also discusses educational applications and use of LOGO by the handicapped. (JN)

Describes various instructional materials designed to teach computer programing. These materials (primarily for the Apple II microcomputer) include books, teaching packages, videotapes, audiocassette tapes, and computer media (including programs loaded from cassettes and disks). Information on classroom packages, writing software, and selecting an…

Epicycloids are formed by tracing the path of a fixed point on a circle as it rolls aroung the outside of a larger circle. Examines several possibilities related to epicycloids (and hypocycloids), presenting more mathematical patterns and artistic shapes that result from using several computer programs. Program listings are included. (JN)

Discusses what to look for in training materials, focusing on educational value, cost effectiveness, and user support. The special advantages of the computer for training are also considered. (JN)

Discusses properties of epicycloids. (The easiest way to picture them is to think of a piece of radioactive bubble gum attached to a wheel which is rolling around the outside of a larger wheel.) Includes a computer program (TRS-80 color computer) that will graph any epicycloid with integer values for the radii. (JN)