This two reviews of the literature on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) are intended to provide a general outline of the major issues involved in the use of computers in education. The 1986 review focuses on definitions, computer usage, achievement gains, staff development, and trends, while the 1986-87 update focuses in particular on the results of the Second National Survey of Instructional Uses of School Computers. (Conducted by Henry Jay Becker, this large-scale study of computer use, teacher attitudes, and educational outcomes, provides information on patterns of computer use and effectiveness in U.S. schools.) The update also describes several programs that have shown learning results from the use of CAI, cost effectiveness data, suggestions for implementation, and future trends. The 1986 report is supplemented by several graphs, and charts and references are provided. The 1986-87 update includes as an appendix a checklist for monitoring instructional use of computers that was developed by Marilyn Coe. (83 references) (EW)