Microcomputers can serve a variety of functions in the special education classroom, including drill and practice, tutoring, music composition and theory, communication aids, and data management. Special educators must make informed choices in selecting, adapting, or writing their own software (lists of authoring tools and software resources are…

The section includes four articles on the use of computers for gifted students. Topics covered include basic information for parents, care and operating routines, a curriculum guide for computer literacy, the computer's role in problem solving, and computer applications for mathematically gifted students. (CL)

Argues that computer assisted instruction is valuable and suggests that teachers begin to develop software and share it with colleagues. Offers examples of such efforts. (FL)

Points out that although there are thousands of software programs available to support educational applications, there is a paucity of suitable courseware. An in-place system for proper evaluation of courseware that, to date, has "approved" more than 200 computer-assisted instructional programs is described. (JN)

Presents specific practical suggestions about evaluating and selecting word processing programs and text editing programs for students learning to write on microcomputers. (CRH)

The article describes ways in which learning disabled students can use simple database management and word processing programs as active users. Involvement in these types of computer applications allows the user to be an active, creative communicator. (CL)

Discusses benefits and pitfalls of networking or disk-sharing in computer labs where microcomputers are connected to a central disk drive which runs one program for all microcomputers at one time. Copyright and software compatibility from educators' and publishers' perspectives, costs, time factors, and educational objectives are included in the…

Within the framework of David Wyatt's paper, "Computer-Assisted Teaching and Testing of Reading and Listening," discusses some limitations and problems in computer-assisted foreign language training in bringing a student up to level three of the Interagency Language Roundtable ratings. Notes that potentially effective software may be…

Points out differences between the "instructional design" and "authoring" approaches to creating courses and courseware for computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Describes models and procedures for designing effective CAI packages. (Author/RW)

Discusses barriers individuals face in using computers in the classroom and the importance of eliminating these barriers. The article notes that visual, mobility, and hearing impairments are the disabilities most often encountered in school labs and that numerous software and hardware tools are available to help individuals with these disabilities…

Reviews a computer software program, "Power Japanese" ("PJ"), for learning Japanese as a second language. "PJ" incorporates colorful graphics, animation, sound drills, and games. (Six references) (Author/CK)

Describes LEARN, a software system for computer assisted foreign language vocabulary acquisition. Notes that the system processes English unrestricted text by translating selected English words in it into foreign words before presenting the text to the student. Points out that the natural path for the system's future is to add more languages. (23…

The "Take A Trip" system is a computerized system used to: (1) design, store, and share lessons which encourage higher order thinking; (2) construct individual/small group plans; and (3) produce instructional materials. The system provides sample course files, help files on curriculum design, and a personalized learning plan template.…

Two components of Scenario, a computer program designed for instructional use, are reviewed, and their applications are discussed. Without learning a programing language, teachers and students can author lessons or presentation materials, including color or monochrome text, graphics, and sound. The program is adaptable to foreign language…

Reports the results of a national survey of academic psychologists relative to the use of microcomputers. Finds that there is an increase in the use of microcomputers for instructional purposes and that such use was unrelated to department size. Discusses the brands of computers most often used and the ways software is utilized. (KO)