The information is offered to acquaint teachers with the scope and nature of microcomputer applications in special education. A brief history of computers traces the changes in the past 40 years. Information on basic computer operations covers such aspects as data storage, the nature of application programs, disk drives, and floppy disks.…

This paper addresses the reasons that it is difficult to find good educational software and proposes measures for coping with this problem. The fundamental problem is a shortange of educational software that can be used as a major part of the teaching of academic subjects in elementary and secondary schools--a shortage that is both the effect and…

An evaluation was conducted of an Illinois Department of Curriculum and Instruction inservice course on microcomputer utilization. Designed to provide educators with preliminary knowledge and experience pertaining to educational uses of microcomputers, the course focused on hardware, software, philosophy, methodology, utilization modes and…

This annotated bibliography and resource list is the fourth guide in a series that constitutes a handbook on educational computing for teachers and administrators. Citations include the title, author, publisher, copyright date, current price, and publisher's address. Research and journal articles are listed under the following topic areas:…

This report details the design, development, and implementation of computer software to support the cost-effective production of computer assisted instruction (CAI) within the context of the Advanced Instructional System (AIS) located at Lowry Air Force Base. The report supplements the computer managed Air Force technical training that is…

Presents the history of the development of computer-assisted composition (CAC) software and notes the problems with reserving some software for "basic" students while "brighter" students can use more complex modeling or simulation software. Concludes that, from experience with basic writers' success with the programs, there are some benefits to…

Assesses surveys of college writing teachers using computers in their composition courses. Results show little consensus in equipment or methods, but indicate that all teachers are positive about the computer's potential as a teaching and writing tool. The questionnaire is appended. (AEW)

Traces the history of computer usage in the arts, examines how computers are being used in music today, and addresses the state of computer-based music instruction. Assesses available hardware and software, calling for more innovative and interactive products and a discontinuance of the drillmaster-learning machine approach to computer-based…

Evaluates MUSICSHAPES, a graphic music construction software program which manipulates sound in terms of pitch, rhythm, timbre, and sequence to help students create complex synthesizer compositions. Intended for ages eight to adult, the program utilizes Apple II computers and additional hardware. Discusses how MUSICSHAPES can be used effectively…

Relates the story of the arrival of a new instructor at a community college and his introduction to contemporary composition methods, wittily parodying both writing process jargon and computer jargon. (NKA)

Describes computer curriculum designed for gifted middle school students that culminates in the eighth grade by having students prepare programs for elementary school students. Students either write their own programs or adapt public domain software, based on questionnaire responses from elementary school teachers indicating their needs. (LRW)

Technological devices which can aid in teaching students with handicaps include: (1) interactive computer assisted instruction; (2) computer software; (3) hand-held calculators; (4) communication and prosthetic devices which aid in receptive and expressive language and practice; and (5) interactive video systems. (Sources of information about…

Illustrates a method used to handle class size experimental data. Demonstrates this method using the SUPERCALC 3A spreadsheet program for an Apple II computer. Details an example of its use. Shows how to eliminate erroneous data. Gives examples of screens and graphical illustrations from the example experiment. (CW)

Fourth in a series of four articles devoted to parents and reading. Describes how parents can use recent technological advances such as television, VCRs, and computers to enhance their children's reading, writing, and problem-solving skills. (ARH)

Provides a review of both the Apple and IBM versions of ENZPACK, a software package which is designed to assist in the teaching of enzyme kinetics in courses where this topic is treated in some depth. (TW)