Informal survey of 59 principals and senior administrators revealed differences in their perceptions of seven issues: (1) impact of information technologies on staff effectiveness; (2) communicating educational needs to technologists; (3) resistance to change; (4) impact on jobs; (5) awareness of costs; (6) discomfort in implementation; and (7)…

Designed to promote cooperative efforts between researchers in artificial intelligence and instruction for the development of future computer-delivered instructional systems, this article contrasts intelligent computer-assisted instruction (ICAI) and traditional computer-based instruction (CBI) in terms of the basic philosophies underlying their…

The Minnesota Adaptive Instructional System research program investigates variables and conditions that improve learning through adaptive instructional strategies. The macro- level component of the system includes a learner model, knowledge base, and expert tutor model. At the micro-level there are nine variables which form the possible…

Following a discussion of basic and complex concepts, two software programs for teaching the complex concept "learning disabled student" are described: CLASS.LD2, an expert system for classifying learning disabled students; and LD.TRAINER, a computer-assisted instruction program designed to teach educators to make appropriate learning disabilities…

Reports on a survey of computer use administered to 400 elementary mathematics or science teachers in South Carolina. Inquiries included: (1) purposes for which used; (2) brands available; (3) recommended software; (4) effects on students; (5) teacher training; and (6) audio or video packages used. (9 references) (MES)

A training program for instructional materials selection has been implemented by the Florida Department of Education. Nine instructional modules and a trainer's guide have been developed and are used for training members of state and district level instructional materials councils. Reactions to the program have been positive. (MES)

Discusses the educational potential of interactive videodisc technology in terms of: (1) training applications; (2) evaluation of effectiveness; (3) advantages of interactivity; (4) design considerations; (5) courseware development and cost considerations; and (6) teacher acceptability. Fifty-two references are provided. (MES)

An alternative approach to the systematic design and development of computer-assisted instruction courseware by classroom teachers is described which consist of three main stages of design, development, evaluation, and revision. Each stage produces a usable output: (1) computer-assisted testing program; (2) drill and practice courseware; and (3)…

Identifies, considers, and interrelates the functionality of hardware, firmware, and software types; discusses the relationship of input and output devices in the PC-based desktop publishing environment; and reports some of what has been experienced in three years of working intensively in/with desktop publishing devices and solutions. (MES)

Discussion of factors to be considered in selecting desktop publishing software for the Macintosh microcomputer focuses on the two approaches to such software, i.e., batch and interactive, and three technical considerations, i.e., document, text, and graphics capabilities. Some new developments in graphics software are also briefly described. (MES)

Examines the nature of desktop publishing and how it can be used in the classroom for gifted/talented students. Characteristics and special needs of such students are identified, and it is argued that desktop publishing addresses those needs, particularly with regard to creativity. Twenty-six references are provided. (MES)

This literature review discusses the differences between individual and individualized instruction and explores ways of leading future computer assisted instruction (CAI) toward genuine individualized instruction. The development and design of intelligent CAI are described, and topics for future studies are suggested. (LRW)

This study of 87 veterinary medical students at Auburn University tests the effectiveness and student acceptance of interactive videodisc as an alternative to animal experimentation and other traditional teaching methods in analyzing canine cardiovascular sounds. Results of the questionnaire used are presented, and benefits of interactive video…

Reviews a criterion-based evaluation of educational software at York University, Ontario, using the York Educational Software Evaluation Scales (YESES). Concern over the quality of available courseware is expressed, and the response of students and teachers is highlighted as the most important criterion for evaluation. (LRW)

Presents overview of this special issue focusing on the field of educational technology. Highlights include the nature of technology and social values; the effects of technology on curriculum and education; differences between educational and performance technology; the training of educational technologists; and trends shaping education now and in…