Discusses the main categories of instructional software, including drill/practice, tutorials, simulation/problem solving, games, and management, along with factors involved in their design. (Author/MBR)

Presents specific guidelines for designing instructional programs that will be delivered on microcomputers so that these programs will use the capacity of the microcomputer system in a way that will develop in learners a range of cognitive skills and help learners to evolve useful learning strategies. (Author)

Summarizes advantages and disadvantages of using computer-assisted instruction for library skills instruction and describes seven steps for developing a program for use in an academic library setting: (1) needs assessment; (2) objectives; (3) program language selection; (4) hardware selection; (5) writing the program(s); (6) feedback and…

Hypermedia allows students to follow associative links among elements of nonsequential information, by combining information from multiple sources into one microcomputer-controlled system. Hypermedia products help teachers create lessons integrating text, motion film, color graphics, speech, and music, by linking such electronic devices as…

Examines characteristics of the successful computer assisted instruction (CAI) author, including knowledge required and time for planning, developing, and testing. Obstacles to successful teacher-author are described, including need for extensive training and uninterrupted free time. An alternative approach of teamwork between computer…

Describes a framework for introducing micro-based computer cartography into college-level courses. The discussion centers on hardware, software, practical considerations, and snags. (RM)

Reviews reasons for the decision to change from a timeshare minicomputer to microcomputers, financial considerations involved, the purchase of hardware, the problem posed by the lack of compatible software for the microcomputers, and the development of the Assisted Instructional Development System (AIDS) for adapting minicomputer software and…

This practicum was designed to initiate the use of databases in an elementary setting. The primary goal was to establish a workable method to incorporate the use of databases and instruct teachers on how to use a sophisticated computer application. The peripheral goal was to transmit the newly-learned skills of the teacher to the students. A…

This paper describes SEF.ASSISTANT, a special software shell for authoring languages to be used in the development of courseware serving computer based education (CBE). The capabilities of SEF.ASSISTANT are identified: (1) it will generate programs written in the IBM SEF.PC authoring language; (2) it is compatible with external standard software…

Suggestions offered to improve the quality of instructional computing software created by computer programming instructors cover analysis of the problem, program design, the development of each module, writing and debugging the program, and final testing and development. (EJS)

Planning for instructional use of microcomputers should start with the curriculum, not with computers. Planning is a necessity and it should be a fluid process. A planning model offered by the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium starts with an analysis of current curriculum to identify the content, skills, and attitudes that are considered…

This publication contains 4 reports and 15 profiles which illustrate the role of computers in education with emphasis on vocational education. The reports are: (1) "Microcomputers in the Classroom--Dreams and Realities" (Henry Jay Becker); (2) "Microcomputers in the Classroom: Are There Unique Issues for Vocational Educators to Consider?" (Judith…

The microterminal/microfiche (MT/MF) system described is part of a continuing effort to investigate the feasibility of a low-cost, stand-alone device for the delivery of the testing component of technical training in a computer-based instructional (CBI) environment. A description of the hardware for the system includes the basic microterminal…

This checklist provides guidelines for designing computer screen displays and evaluating those designed by others. The checklist covers three important aspects of designing a computer screen display: how the screen looks, how the screen interacts with users, and evaluating the screen. (MBR)

Briefly describes stages of the systematic design process for educational software including learning goals identification; considering medium suitability; developing performance objectives, criterion-referenced tests, and instructional strategies; and product evaluation and dissemination. Events of instruction are discussed in detail as they…