The more than 100 papers in this collection describe examples of successful technology integration in teacher education. The applications are extremely diverse, including computer-assisted instruction, hypermedia, interactive video, computer simulations, telecommunications, and more. The applications also represent the range of instructional and…

The development and preliminary evaluation of the Computerized Adaptive Testing System (CATSYS), a new testing package for IBM-compatible microcomputers, are described. CATSYS can be used to administer and score operational adaptive tests or to conduct on-line computer simulation studies. The package incorporates several innovative features,…

This report describes a training project undertaken as part of the Bank Street College Mathematics, Science and Technology Teacher Training Project (MASTTE) to introduce teachers to "The Voyage of the Mimi," a 13-part television drama and multimedia package designed to supplement the regular curricula for science and mathematics in the…

Because density is unobservable and must be inferred from knowledge about weight and size, it is a difficult concept to teach and learn. Even after traditional instruction, many students still have an undifferentiated concept that mixes characteristics of both weight and density. In this study, researchers tested the effectiveness of a unit they…

This guide for teachers focuses on how microcomputers may be used in the home economics classroom and how the computer is affecting and changing family life. A brief discussion of potential uses of the microcomputer in educational settings is followed by seven major sections. Sections 1 and 2 provide illustrations and definitions for microcomputer…

Computer simulations of agricultural finance and management may be helpful to students preparing for agricultural careers. Simulations would provide problem definition and problem solving in realistic interactions with complex and ambiguous situations similar to those encountered in farming. The paper describes a major financial problem for…

Discusses the need for education about soil erosion and advocates the use of the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) to show the impacts of human and natural action on the land. Describes the use of a computer simulated version of the USLE in several environmental and farming situations. (TW)

Recommends using academic learning time as the major factor in deciding whether and how to introduce the computer into the curriculum at any grade level or any subject. (JC)

This special feature focuses on recent developments in optical disk technology. Nine articles discuss current trends, large scale image processing, data structures for optical disks, the use of computer simulators to create optical disks, videodisk use in training, interactive audio video systems, impacts on federal information policy, and…

Contains seven articles about computer applications to chemistry instruction. Includes descriptions of a three-dimensional animation of a potential energy surface, numerical solutions of kinetic equations, applications for spectroscopy courses, a computer-controlled experiment on the tin/lead solid/liquid phase diagram, an inexpensive thermistor…

Discussion of microcomputer use in public elementary schools focuses on the field of special education. Two main ways of using computers are described: (1) traditional uses, including administration, computer-assisted instruction, and assessment; and (2) new applications, including programming, word processing, simulations, and prosthetic aids…

Reviews research and development in media and computer based classroom simulations, emphasizing feasibility and reliability, presentation modes, and benefits. Areas of further study are highlighted, including transfer of training, degree of realism necessary, and correlation with instructional theories; specific variables for study are also…

Describes the development of a computer simulation model of forage-beef production systems, which is intended to incorporate soil, forage, and animal decisions into an enterprise scenario. Produces a summary of forage production and livestock needs. Cites positive assessment of the program's value by participants in inservice training workshops.…

Describes an open-ended computer simulation project that can be used to illustrate the growth of solid crystals in different forms at any level from high school physics to graduate physics. Discusses a simple computer program in BASIC language on an IBM personal computer. Gives examples of simulations. (CW)

Presented is a detailed review of eight computer software packages. Strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations for each game are listed. Mathematical and thinking skills, problem solving, drill and practice, procedural activities, decision making, understanding money, and basic skills are emphasized. (KR)