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…

To explode seven common myths about computers in the classroom, the authors explore some of the limitations and strengths of computers in education. They conclude that the computer should not be shunned as a "bogeyman" but should be used as an aid in achieving the overall goals of education. (Author/SJL)

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)

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.…

This brief description of the Department of Defense Dependents Schools' (DoDDS) computer education program is intended to provide direction for and to stimulate development of computer applications in elementary and secondary schools administered by DoDDS. This 3-dimensional program consists of (1) computer instruction, including both computer…

This survey conducted for the National Institute of Education reports the use of computers in U.S. public schools in the areas of instructional computing, student accounting, management of educational resources, research, guidance, testing, and library applications. From a stratified random sample of 1800 schools in varying geographic areas and…

An article on applications of personal computers for the learning disabled presents the rationale and components of a special education systems approach. A model for organizing information is followed by a review of personal computers as instructional management tools. Examples are cited of computer assisted individualized education program…

Art educators can use computers as an instructional aid, as a managerial aid, and as a tool for creating new art forms. To encourage the greater use of computers in art education, teachers should form art computer committees. The role of this committee is discussed. (RM)

The impact of the technological revolution on education is examined in this monograph, which focuses primarily on computers. First, the history of the educational uses of a variety of media (film, radio, television, teaching machines, and videodisc systems) is traced and assessed. As instructional aids, it is said, the media economize teachers'…

Current approaches in developing and applying computer assisted instruction in language arts are described in this paper, which presents diverse positions along a continuum of perspectives and draws contrasts between a reductionist or subskill approach and a whole language emphasis. The paper discusses three predominant computer applications in…

Eighty-six papers presented at the 17th Annual Association for Educational Data Systems convention cover the educational application of computers in the following areas: computer assisted instruction, instructional and learning processes, computer-related curriculum, educational administration, computer resources, and data-center administration.…