Several educational computer games are described. The impact of these games on education is discussed as well as the future of educational computer games. (CJ)

Described is a health risk appraisal, a computer-based tool for health assessment and education. The appraisal attempts to determine the health interventions, or changes in behavior, most appropriate for an individual and to present them in a way that motivates change. (CJ)

This article discusses the potentials inherent in interactive video and examples of present and future applications in health education and health-related fields. (CJ)

The microcomputer can be an important tool for the health educator faced with the task of designing exercise programs for a variety of individuals in community or worksite settings. The EXERFIT exercise prescription program at the University of Maryland illustrates an application of the microcomputer. (CJ)

The Computerized Health Risk Profile (CHRP) for adolescents, a health risk appraisal process, is a tool to assist in risk identification and an important component of a comprehensive health promotion program. The CHRP's development, field-tests, applications, and evaluations are described. (CJ)

Health educators should explore the potential of interactive video for instruction and should also make certain that it is effectively and prudently applied. Advantages and problems of using interactive video in health education are discussed. (CJ)

Ways in which the School of Health and Physical Education at Portland State University (Oregon) uses its microcomputer include course evaluation, grading, health risk appraisal, mailing lists, statistical analysis, word processing, and information storage. (CJ)

The Body Awareness Resource Network (BARN) is a computer-based system designed as a confidential, nonjudgmental source of health information for adolescents. Topics include alcohol and other drugs, diet and activity, family communication, human sexuality, smoking, and stress management; programs are available for high school and middle school…

Health educators of the 1990s must possess microcomputer literacy as an entry level skill, since they will use microcomputers in almost all facets of education and management. Sixteen projected uses for microcomputers are listed, and a health education graduate program at Indiana University is described. (JMK)

Before going "on-line" with the microcomputer, health educators must address three concerns: (1) accomplishments gained through use of microcomputers; (2) long-term educational and intellectual objectives for computer utilization; and (3) educational issues and problems. Implications of "going on-line" for the health education profession are also…

Health educators are reacting today to what the author calls the third revolution in computers in education-- the use of microcomputers as teaching machines. He defines each revolution, as well as discussing how the fourth revolution, the portable microcomputer, is already underway. (JMK)

The keys to success when selecting a microcomputer are to analyze needs carefully and determine specific criteria desired from the computer. This article provides health educators with objective criteria for such decision making. (JMK)

Primary symptoms of cocaine use and behavioral characteristics of chronic users are pointed out. Ways that school health services can help identify and assist students who abuse the substance are suggested. Approaches such as peer identification, self-diagnosis, and use of a school ombudsman are discussed. (PP)

Factors most likely to predict teenage smoking are defined, based on a study of 6th through 12th grade students. The importance of social factors--the number of best friends who smoke, whether parents and siblings smoke--is stressed. (PP)

A study assessed the extent of health education services provided by community health services in Illinois. The need for agencies to define target populations and their health education needs and to state agency educational objectives clearly is underscored. (PP)