Although microcomputers are being used everywhere, their use in education and training has only begun to be explored. More balanced information about their advantages and limitations is needed before informed decisions about their use can be made. (SSH)

In examining the titles of this year's conference presentations, the author noticed quite a few papers that focus on learner-specific issues, for instance, papers that address learning styles, learner needs, personality and learning, learner modeling and, more generally, pedagogical issues that deal with individual learner differences in…

Computer assisted learning has the capability to cope with the diverse needs and characteristics of the adult learner, to provide alternative means of reaching goals, to provide flexibility in pacing learning, and to provide for independent and self-directed learning. (SK)

Cognitive style is a potentially rich, but typically overlooked, source of individualization in computer based instruction (CBI). Using information about learners' cognitive styles in the design, development, and evaluation phases of CBI production can maximize individualization. In the design phase, for example, learners' cognitive styles can be…

Examines the relative merits of using computer networks (several computers linked together and sharing a single disk drive) and stand-alone systems (self-contained units operating independently) in Australian primary school classrooms. Advances several arguments favoring stand-alone systems, which improve accessibility and enhance individual…

The paper projects the purpose of future learning assistance centers (LACs) at the college level, and discusses trends and goals which will enable the learning center to fulfill its purpose. In 20 years the features of a LAC will include individualized instruction and learning, more control by the learner, changes in traditional grading and…

The advantages of microcomputer networks include resource sharing, multiple user communications, and integrating data processing and office automation. This article nonetheless favors stand-alone computers for Australian secondary school classrooms because of unreliable hardware, software design, and copyright problems, and individual progress…

School systems that rushed to join the computer age are now finding that their expensive acquisitions do not always provide more learning opportunities for students. Reasons include the lack of properly trained teachers and inadequate software. Positive aspects for the use of computers in learning are also examined. (RM)

Computer-based education provides adult educators with an interactive and self-paced medium which has pedagogical and cost advantages. Applications of such educational technology must be an integral part of the instruction process. (Author/SK)

A futuristic design for foreign language learning is suggested using a video telephone, that is, a telephone with video and computer components included. Some introductory information is provided on ways the computer is being used today to organize and transmit information, and on models of individualized instruction which can be adapted to a home…

Describes areas where Calgary has used its computer assisted instruction (CAI) to aide individuals via diagnostic testing, enrichment programs, remedial study, review and reinforcement, and sequencing materials. Suggests microcomputers play four roles: tutorial, drill/practice, simulation, and testing and record keeping. Discusses problems in…

Describes an intelligent computer-assisted learning system that is able to generate individualized courses of instruction for students with different background knowledge and different purposes. Highlights include system architecture; domain knowledge base and student model; authoring by the teacher; courseware planning; and pedagogical tuning by…

Discusses the videodisc market, its popularity in health care training, internally generated videodisc software, interactive computer-based training, interrupted video, advantages of interactive video, do-it-yourself video training, individualized interaction, video's impact on traditional education, and video's future. (CT)

Reviews the literature on Keller's Personalized System of Instruction (PSI), computer-assisted learning (CAL), computer conferencing (CC), and forms of instruction, then discusses how they can be integrated into a delivery system to enhance distance learning. Asynchronous individualized instruction and group instruction are also discussed. (28…

Suggests that a combination of technologies is needed to meet the needs of adult basic education students. Describes the attributes of video-based, computer-based, and interactive technologies that lend themselves to the individuation necessary. (SK)