Describes a project that uses computer mediated communication in universities in the United States and Mexico to teach minority students effectively. BESTNET (Binational English and Spanish Telecommunications Network) is explained, use for distance education is discussed, computer conferencing and electronic mail are described, and problems of…

Discusses gender bias in educational software programs and describes two studies that explored the ability of preservice and inservice teachers to detect bias in software programs. Evaluation instruments used to measure gender bias are described, and the need for instruction in equity issues is discussed. (23 references) (LRW)

Eight articles review and report on research involving computers and problem solving skills. Topics discussed include research design; problem solving skills and programing languages, including BASIC and LOGO; computer anxiety; diagnostic programs for arithmetic problems; and relationships between ability and problem solving scores and between…

Describes a study of teacher education students at West Virginia University that was conducted to determine the effects of a computer-awareness learning module, instructional format, and prior computer use on computer anxiety. The relationships among performance, computer anxiety, and prior experience are also discussed. (Contains 12 references.)…

Describes the development of an interactive video simulation, the "Classroom Management Simulation," that teaches eight basic principles of classroom management to preservice teachers. Highlights include the instructional design process, including task analysis; the use of HyperCard for programming; and results of field testing. (LRW)

Discusses issues involved in teaching teachers about technology. Topics discussed include what students need to know; the changing role of teachers; the need for new forms of student evaluation; and guidelines for student teachers on developing computer-based lessons, including two examples of computer-based lessons for elementary school students.…

Describes methods of using technology in a preservice social studies methods course that show how technology can support teacher planning and how technology can increase teacher effectiveness. Knowledge of instructional materials is discussed, and how to demonstrate the integration of technology into the curriculum through simulations for decision…

Discussion of positive and negative aspects of educational computing focuses on the use of the Logo programing language. Topics addressed include access to computers; software; teacher training, both preservice and inservice; implementation of computers; claims about the benefits of using computers; the role of schools in culture; and future…