Personalized learning (PL) is spotlighted as a way to transform K-12 educational systems. PL customizes learning pace, instructional methods, and learning content to individual students. As much as PL sounds promising and complex, little guidance is available to educators and policymakers about how to effectively design PL. Five essential features…

Describes four aspects of computer technology in education in the United States: (1) the number of computers available to students and teachers; (2) where the computers are located and how they are used; (3) the impact of computer use; and (4) hypotheses concerning nonuse, limited use, and inappropriate use. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Discusses the transfer of problem-solving skills from computer programing to other areas of learning. Logo programing is discussed, levels of programing ability are described, attributes of microworlds are presented, and implications of the growing use of computers in the classroom for educational planning are suggested. (15 references) (LRW)

Critically evaluates the assumption that microcomputer-based instruction can be used to teach generalizable thinking and problem solving skills. Transference of problem solving skills across domains is discussed, and strategies to promote problem solving abilities are examined, including computer assisted instruction and learning programing…

Examines the advisability of public school adoption of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Topics discussed include computer networks; alternatives to ILSs, including stand-alone microcomputers and networks without ILSs; ILSs and theories of learning and teaching; turnkey systems; and ILSs and the profit motive of vendors. (17 references) (LRW)

Discussion of school reform activity focuses on criticism of a previously published article that challenged all school restructuring efforts based on the belief that advances in technology renders school obsolete. Topics addressed include problems with current public education; existing learning technologies; and speculations about future…

Discussion of integrated learning systems (ILSs) stresses the role of the teacher and the necessity of adequate teacher training for successful implementation. Three implementation patterns are described: (1) using a group computer laboratory; (2) using an independent study laboratory; and (3) a distributed system. Problems with each method are…

Discusses reasons for the lack of computer and software use in the classroom, especially on the elementary level. Highlights include deficiencies in available software, including lack of interaction and type of feedback; philosophies of computer use; the psychology of learning and computer use; and suggestions for developing quality software. (4…

Discussion of the application of instructional systems design principles in public education focuses on a study that examined and compared the thinking of preservice teachers, experienced teachers, and experienced instructional designers about instructional planning. Responses to scenarios describing typical student comments reflecting problems…

Identifies and discusses 10 overly optimistic claims for the use of computers in the classroom, and makes recommendations concerning each claim. Highlights include computer labs versus curriculum integration; the development of hardware versus software; the values of computer literacy; computer networking; computer education training; the use of…

Discussion of technological innovations in education focuses on the potentials of the microcomputer as a classroom instructional method. Programing, computer literacy, software applications, and problem solving are suggested as ways to incorporate computers into the curriculum, and examples of applications of computers in elementary and secondary…

Discusses problems that have impeded the use of learning technologies in education, including costs, training educators, and the confusion of networks and databases. Greater involvement by the federal government is suggested as a solution; federal help in the past is described; and legislation currently proposed is explained. (LRW)

Reports on a long-range study examining the developments resulting from the introduction of microcomputers in large city and suburban school districts. Policy questions addressed include implementation plans for microcomputer use, teacher training, districtwide curriculum planning and development, goals of computer activities, student access, and…

Reviews the literature discussing the effects of instructional software and hardware in elementary and secondary education and reports on recent developments. Topics discussed include criticism of studies on the effects of instructional software; research needs; authoring languages; simulations; intelligent computer-assisted instruction;…

Examines some of the problems that must be solved before the Internet can realize its educational potential, including access that is educationally beneficial; hardware and software availability; charges for Internet access; technical and curriculum support; lack of coherent structure, stability, and documentation; censorship; and quality control.…