As computers become better suited for classroom use--in terms of both design and cost--two limitations stand in the way: (1) lack of educationally sound programs or software (called courseware in education); and (2) lack of a computer language that teachers can easily use to create or adapt courseware for their classrooms. (CJ)

Educators interested in applying technology to individualized educational program (IEP) development for handicapped children need to first, understand and explicitly state the local context in which IEP development occurs and then weigh the options in relation to criteria specifying ease of use, data features, program capabilities, and costs.…

Explores primary steps in finding, selecting, and evaluating software for instructional applications. Cites directories of commercial vendors; periodicals that provide software announcements and reviews; and guides to assist in courseware selection and evaluation. (DMM)

Eight categories of software available for educational use (including tutorial, games, administrative utilities, and simulation) are described and the application of a microcomputer for hearing impaired secondary students at the Iowa School for the Deaf is detailed. Software selection criteria are considered. (CL)

Presents several steps for developing computer based learning materials, and shows that they can be less expensive to design and implement than those that are developed using other media. (MER)

Discussion of computer systems that help teachers plan and manage the learning process focuses on the development of a computer consulting system, ASSISTANT, which was designed to help teachers choose the most suitable educational technology and evaluate its effectiveness. The organization of the database is explained. (seven references) (LRW)

Many aspects of computer managed instruction (CMI) are discussed in this paper which focuses on the use of computer technology to support teachers in their efforts to provide effective instruction. The nature of instructional management is explained and links to microcomputer capabilities are established. Microcomputer hardware and software…

The first of three sections of this handbook deals with the use of the computer in the learning resource center. A dictionary of computer terms is followed by a description of areas of computer use in the learning resource center. Information for first-time computer users is then provided, including use of the Apple microcomputer and care and use…

Because technology is changing so fast, it is hard to plan for the use of computers. The author offers advice for schools planning to choose and implement computer technology. Considered are: classroom and administrative uses, peripheral equipment selection, and budgeting. (JMK)

The more than 300 recent publications on microcomputers in education which are listed include guides, several books, ERIC documents, and journal articles. Entries are categorized by six primary topic areas: microcomputers; computer literacy; computer assisted instruction (drill and practice, tutorial, and simulation applications); computer managed…

This guide is intended to assist vocational supervisors in expanding their knowledge of microcomputers and to provide resources to assist them in working with their faculty. Section I presents competencies deemed necessary for an administrator to use the computer as a tool in the conduct of his/her job. Section II focuses on planning for…

The details and process of evaluating computerized instructional materials are presented for the major classes of such materials, i.e., courseware--the set of computer programs with which the student interacts directly to learn--and instructional software--the instructional facilities, services, or general operations which include management and…

This preliminary directory represents the offerings of 45 software suppliers and information about instructional software currently available for three microcomputers widely used in schools. It is geared towards a wide variety of users including school planners contemplating microcomputer acquisition, teachers planning courses and curricula, media…

This book is directed to any educator who is interested in the use of the computer to improve classroom instruction. It is a book about the materials, human factors, and decision-making procedures that make up the instructional application of computers. This document's single goal is to promote educators' thoughtful selection and use of both…

This report describing the use of operations research techniques to determine which courseware packages or what microcomputer systems best address varied instructional objectives focuses on the MICROPIK model, a highly structured evaluation technique for making such complex instructional decisions. MICROPIK is a multiple alternatives model (MAA)…