This study examines the literature in order to evaluate the use of microcomputers as educational tools in the classroom from kindergarten through the college level. Following a brief introduction, annotations for 38 articles are provided under the following topic headings: background articles containing statistics and examples of computer use; effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) on both student performance and their attitudes; implementation of CAI; and making software effective. Three questions are addressed in a discussion of the findings of the research projects described in the annotations: (1) whether the computer is an effective educational tool; (2) if so, how it can best be integrated into the curriculum; and (3) which types of software and learning styles are the most effective for use with computer education. It is concluded that schools need to carefully select, purchase, and use educationally sound software, and that better software needs to be developed for educational purposes. A need for more quality research both on the effects of CAI and the successful implementation of computer education programs in the schools is noted. (42 references) (EW)