Instructors in technical education need to use diverse methods of teaching to provide for individual differences among learners. Use of microcomputers is particularly appropriate, because such use can impart knowledge as well as develop skills. Three philosophies of computer/software instruction in technical education can be identified: (1) problem-solving procedures in which students identify and attempt to solve problems; (2) measurement-driven instruction (MDI) with its stress upon specific predetermined objectives for student attainment; and (3) decision-making strategies with learners selecting content to acquire in a rather open-ended environment. The problem-solving strategy is recommended, because problem solving is salient in the school curriculum as well as in life. MDI strategies could use subject matter acquired by students to solve life-like problems. Decision-making approaches might well emphasize using software content to solve problems. Thus, decision-making approaches may advocate students choosing, from among alternatives, problems to solve. (15 references.) (KC)