Describes a survey conducted in 1997 in seven school districts in Nassau County (New York) to determine the use of computer technology in elementary school classrooms. Highlights include number of computers per classroom, number of newer computers, Internet access, and future plans. (LRW)

Describes and compares four computerized reading incentive programs that quiz students on their reading comprehension of self-selected books and award points for their efforts. Topics include price, hardware requirements, reading level, training, and recommendations. (LRW)

Describes a social studies assignment developed for Arizona eighth graders that focuses on Arizona history but also incorporates English, math, and computer programming skills to create a computer program about traveling through the state. Topics discussed include classroom management, computer requirements, community involvement, and interaction…

Considers how good phonics instruction should encourage children to recognize rimes and to identify an unfamiliar word by blending its onset with the rime that follows. Discusses seven conclusions/implications for phonics software derived from research into phonics instruction. (SG)

Presents three ideas to help teachers who have only one computer for the entire classroom. The suggestions include having the teachers use the computer themselves to enhance productivity, hooking the computer up to a visual display, and looking for curriculum packages that inspire groups, not individuals. (SM)

Argues educators need to identify software that will effectively support children with reading difficulties. Discusses: why computers should be used to aid struggling readers; what makes good software and why; and what software to select for classroom use. Contains an evaluation device that can be used by educators selecting software for classroom…

Introduces a new column written for the one-computer classroom and offers several perspectives for connecting software applications to trade book reading. Describes eight software packages for extending and enhancing students' reading of different genres: fairy tales, realistic fiction, science fiction, and biography and historical fiction in…

This article aims to help parents of gifted children plan children's experiences using home computers, select quality software, and decide when to expose children to more advanced computer training. Potential problems such as student feelings of isolation are discussed, as well as drawbacks of software emphasizing drill repetition over concept…

Describes a variety of software programs appropriate for whole-language learning. The software allows elementary students to make picture books and create posters, banners, greeting cards, puzzles, and minimovies and to do group writing activities. Also included is information on resources and computer reading packages. (SM)

Reviews three computer software programs that can enhance children's story writing: (1) Sunbuddy Writer; (2) Sierra's School House; and (3) Snoopy's Campfire Stories. Describes the capabilities and features of each program as well as the possibilities for expansion. (AA)

The systematic evaluation process used in Georgia's DeKalb County School System to purchase comprehensive instructional software--an integrated learning system (ILS)--is described, and the decision-making model for selection is presented. Selection and implementation of an ILS were part of an instructional technology plan for the DeKalb schools…

Integrated Learning Systems (ILS) can be used as instructional tools and to produce reports on student progress. Three different systems from Curriculum Computer Corporation (CCC), Ideal Learning, Inc., and Jostens Learning Corporation were piloted in three elementary school to evaluate ILS usefulness in reading/language arts and math. The pilot…

Intended as an easy-to-use quick reference tool for finding good software packages to meet specific educational objectives in language arts, reading, and mathematics, this directory focuses on highly rated software designed to teach basic learning and thinking skills. Software listed in the directory is available from International Business…

Some students do not "take to" computers as a learning tool. Reasons for this include inappropriate software; use of the same software for all students rather than accommodation of different interests, needs, and learning styles; and various handicaps (both physical and mental). For example, many students prefer a holistic approach;…

This guide for using computers in the whole language classroom provides teachers with practical ideas for the use of computers to promote group interaction and cooperative learning, including: (1) software webs to assist theme development; (2) pre-computer activities to motivate students; (3) computer activities to develop software competence; (4)…