The role of the computer in the classroom can range from "toy" to be used when boredom sets in to mechanical monster that monopolizes precious classroom time with little residual benefit. However, a middle ground exists. At Auburn University (Alabama), the computer is used in an intermediate French course to complement rather than replace personal interactive instruction. Due to the lack of available high-quality and text-compatible software, the teacher, previously uninterested in computer use, used basic programming skills to write sets of exercises and drills with appropriate prompts, feedback, and other usual software elements. After some experimentation, a system was developed wherein students could go to the computers at a convenient time for them, check out a prepared diskette, and do the exercises. The exercises were used only after regular teacher presentation of the materials in class. Student response has been positive, and some students have found that in a more advanced class they perform best on material they have practiced previously on the computer. Experimenting with computer use can be instructionally effective and be a balance to the less interesting tasks of class administration. (MSE)