Delineates primary criteria for choosing a computer for instructional functions, such as computer literacy development; hands-on experience; new content or skills teaching; enrichment and remediation; and alternate learning strategies. Discusses memory size, programing and authoring languages, service warranties and maintenance, user networks, and…

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)

The first edition of this journal features seven papers on computers in special education. D. Berkell reviews basic information in "For the Uninitiated: What Teachers Should Know about Computers." D. Shanahan briefly describes a computer problem solving program in "Robots in the Kindergarten." J. Beckerman relates her own experiences using…

A five-phase study was conducted to evaluate all major computer systems used in writing IEPs (individualized education programs) in California. A "manual" sample composed of four Special Education Local Planning Agencies (SELPAs) that did not use computers was surveyed and responses compared with SELPAs that did use computers. An analysis of…

Lists ways that computer-managed instruction can help teachers, especially teachers using "outcome-based learning" methods. (Author/JM)

This two volume report presents descriptions of LOGO-S, an interactive programming language expressly designed for education, and the portable LOGO system, a computer software development. The modular structure of LOGO, along with its simple but powerful extension features, is naturally suited to problem solving in many problem domains with…

Discusses the advantages of using computer managed instruction (CMI) at all grade levels for record keeping, testing, and providing pupils with formative evaluation and diagnostic feedback. Several CMI software packages for use on different microcomputers, including authoring systems, are described and their prices are given. (EAO)

Summarizes the characteristics and special features in a variety of mainframe, minicomputer, and microcomputer systems; discusses the applicability of each in school instruction; provides information about hardware, instructional capabilities, courses, and curricula available from computer manufacturers/publishers; and discusses future uses and…

This paper offers an historical perspective as to why teachers may be reluctant to accept new technologies, and what might persuade them to use computers in their classrooms. The analysis also suggests some methods for minimizing the inhibiting factors and maximizing the acceptance of computers in elementary and secondary school settings.…

Examines the educational potential of three categories of computer networks--(1) resource sharing networks for sharing expensive peripherals; (2) communication networks for transferring messages between microcomputers; and (3) interactive networks for student collaboration on multiuser tasks. Advantages and disadvantages of networking and the…

The Navy computer-managed instruction system (Navy CMI) is a large, multi-site operation. Research findings show that it is yielding benefits in terms of cost savings. During fiscal year 1975, savings of over ten million dollars were realized, mostly due to course reductions ranging from 24 to 80 percent and reductions in on-board students. It has…

In four chapters, this research report on computers in education examines computer hardware (the machinery) and software (or courseware, programmed instructions that tell the hardware what to do), classroom uses of computers, ways of bringing computers into the schools, and four districts that have successfully introduced computers into their…

The Prescott (Arizona) Unified School District No. 1 has developed a computer literacy program which reaches from the fourth-grade to the senior high school level. It emphasizes: (1) learning the history of computers; (2) understanding their influence on society; (3) teaching about current and potential uses; and (4) understanding how computers…

Selecting a type of computer system for instructional purposes does not depend upon the kind of instruction to be provided but on the features of the maxi- and minicomputer systems themselves. The features of each system must be considered in the context in which it will be used. (Author/CMV)

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…