This report documents a computer program for simulation evaluation of item response theory (IRT) ability estimators. This Honeywell DPS version is a very slight modification of the program originally developed in FORTRAN-77 on a DEC VAX 11/780. The model of the world simulated by the program involves a unidimensional test in which the probability…

The study reports on the costs and time associated with the preparation of special education individualized education programs (IEPs) with and without computer assistance. Data were gathered from nine agencies within California. In each agency special education administrators, teachers and parents were interviewed to determine the time and…

This technical report describes the computerized information management system used at the Community Care Organization for Dependent Adults (CCODA) of the On Lok Senior Health Services in San Francisco's Chinatown (California). A background perspective on information systems in business, government, hospitals, and local community service agencies…

Two methods for solving problems are presented, designed to help people overcome difficulties that often occur in the problem-solving process. One difficulty people have is in using their knowledge to reach the decisive solution idea. The proposed "method of description" for eliminating this difficulty is based on a directed enrichment of the…

The study examined three questions regarding severely physically and communicatively handicapped children: (1) who are involved in developing and disseminating microcomputer technology? (2) what innovations are being researched, developed, and implemented? and (3) how is microcomputer technology being implemented by educators, administrators, and…

Software professionals have to synchronize themselves with the new cutting edge technologies or they may be phased out of their work. They can opt this through in-house training by an instructor, by attending a course at a training institute after office hours, or by taking up an online course. This article provides an analysis of the…

The Technology in Education Program, established in 1970, was purposed to help college teachers test the instructional uses of new communication technologies. Preliminary results have been encouraging, although there are problems in training opportunities, technology refinements, and software development. (LBH)

Winners of a contest run by the EDUCOM Software Initiative, a project to promote development and dissemination of instructional software for higher education, are identified. Criteria included the appropriateness of the software for use in higher education, its reliability, appeal and ease of use, etc. (MLW)

Focuses on the first of three stages of the path evaluation procedure for instructional software, performing the preliminary evaluation. The three main steps involved in preliminary evaluation are (1) a program is chosen for evaluation; (2) information is exchanged with the faculty developer; and (3) the instructional designer reviews the software…

Offers some suggestions for using a microcomputer in class when only one work station is available. (JC)

Summarizes a teaching experiment in which two data management software packages--PFS:File and PFS:Reports, were adapted for classroom instruction to introduce social studies vocabulary concepts using the semantic feature method. (HTH)

Computer-assisted direct behavioral observation is proposed to aid sensory integration therapy. This allows the occupational therapist to quantify data, devise and answer research questions, and assess progress. Advice is given on establishing a behavior taxonomy. Computer-assisted direct behavioral observation is examined and found valuable for…

The study evaluated the feasibility of using two commonly available peripheral devices (Apple Graphics Tablet and Power Pad) and specially developed software to help 12 moderately and severely retarded individuals to use written communication (Rebus symbols). Students learned the symbol processing system and used it effectively for personal…

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)

Argues that philosophical, ethical analysis is needed when the moral rules relevant to a situation (such as the use of computers) are not obvious, or when several moral principles come into conflict. In this context, examines rights of ownership of computer programs, and the effects of increasing computer use on privacy and power. (Author/KH)