A cost benefit study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of a computer assisted instruction/computer management system (CAI/CMS) as an alternative to conventional methods of teaching reading within Chapter 1 and DPPF funded programs of the Columbus (Ohio) Public Schools. The Chapter 1 funded Compensatory Language Experiences and Reading (CLEAR) program, serving elementary and middle schools, included both regular and CAI/CMS groups. A variety of computer instructional systems were used at these levels, the most prevalent being Prescription Learning in grades four and five and Dolphin at the middle school level. The DPPF funded Secondary Developmental Reading (SDR) program at the high school level included a regular group and a CAI/CMS group that used Prescription Learning techniques. Cost analysis base figures included salaries plus benefits for teachers and aides, as well as computer equipment and service contract costs. Comparative analysis between Regular and CAI/CMS units was examined in terms of enrollment, attendance, and achievement. Findings indicated that the per-pupil cost was greater in the CAI/CMS groups than in the regular groups at all three levels. The CAI/CMS groups surpassed the Regular group in achievement at the middle school level and in grades four and five, while a negative change occurred at the high school level. Findings also indicated that CAI/CMS teachers served more pupils per teacher than did regular program teachers, and that CAI/CMS pupils surpassed regular program pupils in attendance at all levels. (Tables of data are included.) (NKA)