Computer-based instruction (CBI) studies analyzed by Kulik et al. were examined to explore the validity of competing claims about the computer's contribution to measured achievement gains. Results suggest achievement gains found in CBI studies are overestimated and are due to uncontrolled but robust instructional methods embedded in CBI…

This study investigated the impact of integrated learning systems, problem solving software, and simulation software on elementary students' reading performance. Results indicate students entering fourth through sixth grade profited more from instruction supplemented by problem-solving and simulation software than from skills instruction. Results…

Describes a study of the effectiveness of microcomputer-based instruction compared with the lecture method and independent-reading approaches in delivering instruction on library information retrieval skills to eighth-grade students. Results indicate the microcomputer-based courseware and lecture method were identical in instructional…

Emphasis in instructional technology has shifted from programed to individualized to computer-based instruction. Programed and individualized instruction have had limited success in raising student achievement and improving attitudes, while computer-based instruction has raised achievement, positively affected time needed for teaching and…

This paper consists of reviews of current trends in World Wide Web-based instruction and a representative sample of Web-based instruction efficacy research. The review of the current state of Web-based instruction yields two principle themes: (1) the prevalence of Web-based instruction is growing exponentially, particularly in lifelong learning…

Discussion of interaction in computer-based tutorials (CBT) focuses on a study that compared the performance of adult learners from training with three CBTs that varied the level of interactivity. The degrees of learner control, system control, and domain control are discussed, and the Lotus spreadsheet tutorials used are described. (24…

Describes study that was conducted to determine whether Logo instruction could improve the attitudes of fifth grade students toward microcomputers and toward school in general. Differences in gender and ability groupings are explored, treatment of experimental and control groups is described, and the Computer/School Questionnaire developed for the…

Describes study of high school students that was designed to determine the relative effectiveness of color, graphics, and animation in computer assisted learning (CAL) of a mathematical rule. Three CAL modes, in color and in black and white, are compared; pretests and posttests are explained; and further research needs are suggested. (13…

Discusses study that was designed to examine the effects of microcomputers on the ecology of secondary special education classrooms and explains the MICROS Observation System, which was used to collect observational data. The effects of microcomputer use on student behavior and teacher behavior are described. (25 references) (Author/LRW)

Provides meta-analysis of 48 studies on computer-based instruction (CBI) in elementary schools based on literature searches in Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) and Dissertation Abstracts. Highlights include aptitude treatment interaction; computer managed instruction (CMI); computer assisted instruction (CAI); weighting procedures;…

Contrasts uses of electronic mail which are contrived by teachers versus uses that are based on real educational needs. Examples based on elementary school projects in Canada, the United States, and Australia are given; and uses in distance education, in school administration, with handicapped children, and to improve writing skills are described.…

Discussion of research on computer-aided instruction (CAI) focuses on a set of questions and hypotheses that form the basis for research on the effectiveness of CAI. Four factors are highlighted: (1) the medium (including interactive videodisc); (2) the environment; (3) student characteristics; and (4) topic of instruction. (38 references) (LRW)

Discusses the results of measuring the in-class effectiveness of a computer-controlled instructor workstation (IWS) that was developed at the Air Force Academy. Treatments for the experimental and control groups in an introductory physics course are described, and effects on student performance, student attitudes, and instructor attitudes are…

Describes study that examined text density levels as a design variable in print and computer-based instructional presentations. The six treatment groups are explained, including low density, high density, and learner controlled density; attitude surveys and achievement posttests are described; and implications of the findings for instructional…

Discussion of changes in learning as a result of computer-assisted instruction focuses on a study that compared interactions between at-risk high school students and teachers. Use of two different integrated learning systems with interactions between the same students and teachers during traditional classroom instruction was examined. (Contains 26…