This document consists of 24 microcomputer software package evaluations prepared by the MicroSIFT (Microcomputer Software and Information for Teachers) Clearinghouse at the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory. Each software review lists source, cost, ability level, subject, topic, medium of transfer, required hardware, required software,…

Describes a variety of computer software. The packages reviewed include a variety of simulations, a spread sheet, a printer driver and an alternative operating system for DBM.PCs and compatible programs. (BSR)

The study compared effects of two direct-mail educational software marketing strategies: (1) brochure only and (2) brochure and sample program provided by a journal. Those responding to Strategy 1 rated the programs higher because of less knowledge. However, those responding to Strategy 2 exhibited more respect for the journal. (CH)

Reviews the McGraw-Hill Interactive Authoring System which allows authors to create computer-based courses with or without interactive video. Use of the program requires no programming skills and authors do not need to learn a special language. The system's operation, performance, ease of use, documentation, and management are considered. (JN)

Describes a collection of widely used software programs which can help teachers be more effective. Included are graphics programs, word processing, database managers, and gradebooks. Includes names and addresses of distributors. (JDH)

Lists names and addresses of companies producing software directories, software catalogs, and professional computing journals. Suggests four considerations in ordering software. (JDH)

The article reviews ways in which software can be modified for students with mild learning difficulties and criteria for evaluating software in terms of its appropriateness to school curriculum, software format, and its effectiveness in ameliorating learning difficulties of individual children. (CL)

All 600 high schools and about one-third of the 1,600 elementary schools in Israel are now using computers. Most installations use one of four highly developed courseware systems. Experiences with these systems (Mashow, Semel, Toam 2, and Tapauch) are described. (JN)

Spreadsheet software allows manipulation of information, helps children to find answers to questions, and encourages them to ask others. Once the teacher sets up the spreadsheet, the program does the work, showing children they can calculate anything, even when their arithmetic skills cannot. (MT)

A colloge credit course in computer math for 12 gifted secondary students and their parents focused on problem-solving strategies and encouraged teamwork and communication among parents and children. (CL)

This is the first of what will be a regular feature presenting reviews of foreign language software and discussions of problems and perspectives in foreign language computer-assisted instruction. Gives an overview of the state of the art in microcomputer courseware and presents criteria for courseware review. (SED)

Presents a catalogue of microcomputer courseware specifically designed for use in learning German. Covers four types of software: (1) authoring systems for drill and practice, (2) drill and practice programs that are self-contained, (3) authoring systems that create game-like materials, and (4) game programs. Includes a listing of publishers and…

A review of "Using Computers in the Language Classroom" highlights the textbook's user-friendly perspective, clear language, and strong and consistent emphasis on using the computer, rather than on machinery or concepts. The textbook includes invaluable suggestions for software management. (CB)

Provides an overview of the transition from traditional, programmed instruction to computer-assisted instruction, including concepts and history affecting instructional environments. Describes the focus of articles that follow, including methods for navigating and learning from hypermedia systems; point and query interface; story-based learning…

Describes the construction of a model of computer-assisted instruction using a qualitative block diagram based on general systems theory (GST) as a framework. Subject matter representation is discussed, and appendices include system variables and system equations of the GST model, as well as an example of developing flexible courseware. (Contains…