This description of the Structure-Mapping Engine (SME), a flexible, cognitive simulation program for studying analogical processing which is based on Gentner's Structure-Mapping theory of analogy, points out that the SME provides a "tool kit" for constructing matching algorithms consistent with this theory. This report provides: (1) a…

Microcomputers can be used with simulation software to provide students both with experience in the "real world" of decision making and feedback on the decisions made. Such software allows individual students to choose the roles they wish to play from a menu of diverse roles and provides alternatives for them to consider for each decision to be…

This discussion of the design of computerized psychological assessment or testing instruments stresses the importance of the well-designed computer-user interface. The principles underlying the three main functional elements of computer-user dialogue--data entry, data display, and sequential control--are discussed, and basic guidelines derived…

The paper reviews international research on computer assisted learning (CAL) for special populations and examines the issue in terms of the Canadian policy perspective. Data collection techniques included interviews and field observations with researchers, manufacturers, and policy makers. A generic model is proposed for special education computer…

This publication acquaints the user with microcomputer statistical packages and offers a method for evaluation based on a set of criteria that can be adapted to the needs of the user. Several popular packages, typical of those available, are reviewed in detail: (1) Abstat, an easy to use command driven package compatible with the IBM PC or the…

The paper is intended to help rehabilitation professionals use computer hardware and software in serving their clients and improving their professional associations and practices. Four types of computer applications are addressed (examples in parentheses): (1) assistive devices (environmental control systems, writing devices); (2) software to help…

Recent improvements in the human factors elements incorporated in the design of personal computer interfaces are illustrated by detailed analyses of two microcomputers and their word processors (Osborne 1/WordStar and Apple's Macintosh/MacWrite). The vital steps in operation are described through analyses of the behavioral requirements involved in…

This paper proposes the idea that in smaller countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, computer-assisted education may be creating an era of neo-colonialism in education. The paper discusses the problems of attempting to develop and maintain intellectual and cultural independence in an age of high technology. In countries such as Australia…

The overall poor quality of educational software on the market suggests that educators must continue efforts to evaluate available packages and to disseminate their findings. In this paper, weaknesses in published evaluation procedures are identified, and an alternative model, the York Educational Software Evaluation Scale (YESES), is described.…

The workshop paper examines the use of microcomputer packages to analyze spontaneous language samples of children with communication disorders. Advantages of computerized analysis are seen to include time saving, more efficient data management, and increased objectivity. To help consumers determine which programs to buy, four aspects are…

Modern aircrew training devices (ATDs) are equipped with sophisticated hardware and software capabilities, known as advanced instructional features (AIFs), that permit a simulator instructor to prepare briefings, manage training, vary task difficulty/fidelity, monitor performance, and provide feedback for flight simulation training missions. The…

This paper discusses the programmatic concerns, the evaluation, and the ultimate decisions which led to the transfer of CIS (Chemical Information System) to the private sector. CIS is a complex, integrated system of some 20 chemical databases and data analysis programs which provide access to physical, toxicological, environmental effects, and…

This paper reviews the process of selection of a computerized guidance system for a multicampus, heterogeneous college. The paper first describes the criteria for selecting a career guidance program appropriate for a particular student population. These selection criteria included content of the program, internal structure, hardware and cost, and…

Designed for use by South Carolina school districts planning to include microcomputer language arts software for grades one through eight in teaching the Basic Skills Assessment Program (BSAP) objectives in grades one through eight, this booklet presents titles of software programs given a favorable review by review services, and correlates them…

This information digest discusses current issues in the management of software collections and outlines several possible options for the cataloging and processing of microcomputer software and courseware. A statement of the problem indicates that treatment of microcomputer software is highly dependent on the type of library, size of the…