This publication contains 4 reports and 15 profiles which illustrate the role of computers in education with emphasis on vocational education. The reports are: (1) "Microcomputers in the Classroom--Dreams and Realities" (Henry Jay Becker); (2) "Microcomputers in the Classroom: Are There Unique Issues for Vocational Educators to Consider?" (Judith…

In an experimental project, a university instructional development consultant (IDC) provided consultation for a faculty client in a graduate course where the IDC was also enrolled as an auditing student. The course, Issues in Higher Education, was taught by a university administrator complementing his administrative responsibilities, and the…

To make training cost-effective for its small systems customers, Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) is providing self-instructional packages that can be used by customers on-site for training people to run their systems. To control the quality of this training, Computer Managed Instruction (CMI) is now incorporated into some of these packages.…

This report describes the instructional design for a Multiple Position Letter Sorting Machine (MPLSM) operator's course administered via the Automated Instructional Development System (AIDS). AIDS is an innovative system consisting of a unique special purpose computer, innovatively designed software, and individualized adaptive instruction. The…

Using a population of 126 disadvantaged youth enrolled in Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) programs, the goal of a study was to develop an instructional model and guidance system based on critical affective work competencies previously identified by Kazanas and others. Participants were carefully reviewed with respect to a number…

In relating foundation program objectives established by the Department of Education to classroom instruction, this paper identifies performance expectations for 21 subjects in grades 3, 6, 8, 10, and 12. These grades were chosen because they represent critical points in major stages of human development. The performance expectations are clustered…

The microterminal/microfiche (MT/MF) system described is part of a continuing effort to investigate the feasibility of a low-cost, stand-alone device for the delivery of the testing component of technical training in a computer-based instructional (CBI) environment. A description of the hardware for the system includes the basic microterminal…

This review of the state of educational evaluation, which is directed to both those who produce and those who consume evaluation data, suggests that certain prevalent evaluation practices are seriously out of step with, and inappropriate for, current mainstream instructional activity. Evaluation is recommended as not merely an appendage to…

A new division of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), the Division of Instructional Development (DID), invited papers by five leaders in the field to provide a starting place for defining and exploring instructional development (ID). The first paper argues that definitions are restrictive and should be used only…

Interviews an administration department chair at University of Illinois, who is also a staff evaluation consultant and author. Discusses reservations about evaluation rating scales and state-mandated systems. Although broader criteria are needed, linking staff development to evaluation involves teachers in goal setting and promotes understanding…

Suggests ways in which teachers of economics may use online bibliographic and numerical databases to enhance lectures and update reading lists. Focuses on techniques which can reduce the costs of such searches and includes a section on introducing students to online searching for their term papers. (JDH)

This checklist provides guidelines for designing computer screen displays and evaluating those designed by others. The checklist covers three important aspects of designing a computer screen display: how the screen looks, how the screen interacts with users, and evaluating the screen. (MBR)

The article details a process to develop and test an instructional program designed to teach learning disabled students the procedural, process, and task specific knowledge necessary to solve four kinds of arithmetic story problems. Single subject and group research designs were used to evaluate the problem solving unit. (Author/DB)

Focuses on second language learning research conducted by Valerian Postovsky and by Ellen Bialystok, with particular emphasis on Postovsky's contributions to understanding of how best to initiate second language learning and Bialystok's contributions to knowledge of effective teaching strategies and syllabi. (CB)

Having limited accurate knowledge about the Soviet Union, this article provides U.S. teachers with information about the selection and location of resources for teaching about the USSR. Relevant information can be summarized in the classroom by using resources for students; Soviet source materials; reference materials for teachers; and information…