DOCUMENT RESUME

ED 216 671 IR 009 996

AUTHOR Marler, Jerilyn, Ed. TITLE MicroSIFT News. ((and)) . INSTITUTION Northwest Regional Educational Lab., Portland, Oreg. PUB DATE 81 NOTE 31p. JOURNAL CIT MicroSIFT News; vi nl Oct 1980 v2 nl Oct 1981

EDRS PRICE MF01/PCO2 Plus Postage. DESCRIPTORS *Computer Assisted Instruction; *Computer Programs; *Consortia; *Evaluation Criteria; *Microcomputers; Networks; Publications; Seminars; *Summative Evaluation; Workshops

ABSTRACT This document comprises the first two issues of a newsletter published by the Microcomputer Software and Information for Teachers (MicroSIFT) Clearinghouse, which is a project designed to establish effective procedures for the collection, evaluation, and dissemination of materials and information, and develop a flexible user support and technical assistance component. The first issue describes the project, how the network was formed, courseware evaluation procedures, package distribution services, and hardware at the clearinghouse. Workshops and seminars offered by MicroSIFT, four publications on software sources and hardware news, and notes on regional information are also listed. The second issue describes the Evaluator's Guide and evaluation instruments developed by MicroSIFT, gives a bibliography of 28 resources on microcomputer selection, lists the participants in the field testing of the evaluation process, and provides the criteria for evaluating the content and instructional quality of courseware. Evaluations of 12 programs using this process include producer, version, required hardware, techniques, documentation available, instructional objectives, instructional prerequisites, content and structure, potential uses, major strengths, major weaknesses, and evaluation summary. Seven catalogs for educational applications and four for various fields are also listed. (CHC)

*********************************************************************** Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ******************************u**************************************** U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER ,ERICI 4.This document has been reproduced as received from the person or organizabon orNnamg rt Meier Changes have been made to improve reproduction quahty

Rooms of view or opinOnS stated in thus docu ment do not necessarily represent officot NIE POW on Or policy

MICROSIFT NEWS Vol.1 No.1/ October 1980 Vol.2 No.1/ October 1981

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory

"PERMISSION TO REPRODUCETHIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTEDBY Judith E. Allen

TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)."

2

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northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 500 Lindsay Building . 710 S.W. Second Avenue Portland. Oregon 97204 Vol.1 No.1 /October 1980 Edited by Jerilyn Marley

About IVIicroSIFT-.-..

MicroSIFT Bio Purpose of MicroSIFT

Development of the Microcomputer Although many projects applying Software and Information For Teachers computer technology in education have (MicroSIFT) Clearinghouse began in been funded over the last 10 years, December of 1979 with the support of adequate instructional materials are the National Institute of Education. still scare because of a lack of It is a major project of the Computer documentation, validation and Technology Program directed by Dr. dissemination. Other obstacles to Judy Edwards at the Northwest Regional significant use of computers in Educational Laboratory (NWREL). education are: Donald Holznagel, Coordinator of

MicroSIFT, has been working closely co Lack of skilled personnel to with Dr. Edwards in designing the develop materials or train clearinghousewhich is now moving into others to use computer-based its operational phase. The third materials member of the Computer Technology staff is Jeri Marler, Administrative Lack of information concerning Secretary for the program. use of computers in curricular Dr. Edwards has been Director of areas the NWREL Computer Technology Program since 1976. Don Holznagel, formerly Technical problems related to with TIES in Minnesota, accepted the hardware/software position of MicroSIFT Coordinator in incompatibility and cost . Through their combined endeavors MicroSIFT has become a MicroSIFT was planned in reality. recognition of these obstacles to serve as a clearinghouse for microcomputer K-12 instructional software and information. The major "...the computer bv itself focus of the project is on can never be as effective as establishing effective procedures for a human teacher; an alliance the collection, evaluation and of the two, however, creates dissemination of materials and a powerful teaching force." information, and incorporating a Christine Doerr flexible user support and technical Microcomputers and assistance component. the 3 r's Mier T is inperation ,..=adme....mmems...... nryloomorr ..msommmlwoollamimmum

MicroSIFT NETWORK FORMED COURSEWARE EVALUATION

Much of the MicroSIFT work will be In response to the need to identify carried out by a Network of quality software (well documented and organizations and consortia directly tested packages), MicroSIFT staff are involved in using computers in designing an evaluation process. instruction. Their expertise will be Instruments are currently being put to use in reviewing, documentin9, devised and procedures being tested __finishing_and evaluating.programs for the evaluation of submitted to MicroSIFT for possible microcomputer-based instructional distribution. Initial participants in software and courseware. the Network have a history of Development of this evaluation has development, selection, evaluation and been a joint project of MicroSIFT and use of instructional computer the NWREL Research on Evaluation applications. Their staff have Program. Resources such as full-time responsibility for checklists, questionnaires and instructional computing and supporting guidelines were collected from school the use of microcomputers in their districts and consortia to use in the constituent schools. Contractual development process. CONDUIT (the agreements are being prepared with 17 higher education clearinghouse for organizations as initial participants. microcomputer-based education Potential member organizations met materials, located at the University -7 in Denver, Colorado to of Iowa) has extensive experience in discuss the roles, benesits, and this field; their advice and input activities of the Network. A formal have been instrumental in the announcement of participants will be formation of the MicroSIFT evaluation made in the next issue of NEWS. package. Pilot tests of the evaluation forms were held with Portland and Beaverton school district teachers in Oregon. A field test version of the evaluation instruments has been developed for use during the 1980-C1 sc. Jol year.

"Learning is a highly individual experience, an active rather than a passive act.... It is increasingly important that students be provided with a variety of instructional resources that incorporate multi;:qe learning styles and modes of interaction. This multiplgcity of resources increases the probability of a match between L.:77otix ay.lilable and what the learner is seeking. The computer provides a variety of instructional strategies and delivery modes, and.can be a useful and exciting means for expanding learning opportunities." Richard B. Otte Education Technology Specialist National Institute of Education

2 4 The evaluation procedure involves evaluators to help them achieve of procedures four stages: accuracy and consistency and judgments. During the 1980-81 school year this 1. Siftin . An initial judgment is ma e whether a program or evaluation process will be field package is suitable for tested by Network members using microcomputer use in grades K-12 educational packages submitted to and is ready for evaluation. MicroSIFT. Certain fundamental criteria must be met: does it have instructional value (as opposed PACKAGE DISTRIBUTION to strictly recreational), can it be run on a microcomputer MicroSIFT will facilitate with little or no adaptation, dissemination and distribution of evaluated instructional packages in a etc. variety of ways. Services available 2. Description. Factual through NWREL MicroSIFT include: information about the program and materials is reviewed; i.e., *Developing and publishing instructional purpose, guidelines for authors and technique, package form, exemplary instructional packages documentation available, and so forth. *"Product finishing" to bring packages up to publishable 3. Evaluation. Professional standards teachers with experience in the program's subject area and o Conducting apublisher's search stated grade level review the material, test the program, and * Establishing criteria for make judgements concerning its publisher selection value as an instructional proposals package. e Reviewing publisher's and making recommomendations 4. In-Depth Evaluation. When a package successfully passes the The first set of completed first three stages and is rated package reviews is projected for highly enough to warrant further spring 1981. Information regarding evaluation, instructional the reviews will be made available effectiveness will be assessed through this newsletter. through pre-testing and post-testing, student observation, or other means. An HARDWARE ON HAND expert in the package's fieldof study will supervise the MicroSIFT currently has thuse of In-Depth Evaluation and make a three microcomputers: Apple II Plus, recommendation and/or judgment Atari 800, and TRS-80, on loan from to MicroSIFT regarding the tne vendors. Peripheral equipment usefulness of the program. includes the Apple II Plus dual disk drive, 48K RAM language board; the The evaluation process will be Atari 800 (40K) disk drive and supplemented by an Evaluator's Guide, printer; and the TRS-80 dual disk A graphics tablet now in development. It will be used drive and printer. in training and as a reference for provided by the Apple Computer Company makes the development of graphics an easy task. A Sony Trinitron Color TV provides NOTE: CHANGE OF ADDRESS a beautiful means of demonstrating educational software and exhibiting The Northwest Regional Educational the color/graphics/sound capabilities Laboratory is preparing to move to a of micros. Other micro brands will be newly constructed building. The added in the future to assist projected moving date is December 1. MicroSLFT in its function-as a" Please make a note of the new address: clearinghouse for microcomputer- based educational materials. 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 orkshops/Seminars

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM BROWN BAG Other topics not yet scheduled are: SEMINTRS al Library and Media Center Monthly "brown baggers" are held in Applications of Micros the Laboratory for people interested in the various aspects of computers in Micro Applications for School education. There is no charge, nor is Administrators a seating reservation required (although we would appreciate a note e Deciding When To Use a Micro- - or phone call if you plan to attend). and When Not To If you will be traveling to NWREL for a seminar, it might be a good idea to Future "brown baggers" will be check a day or two ahead for announced through NEWS. last-minute canPellations. Bring your lunch (we'll supply the coffee) and enjoy an informative session. INTENSIVE ALL-DAY SEMINARS Seminars are from 11 am to 1 pm, 7th Floor Board Room, 710 S.W. Second If interest warrants, intensive Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 503/248-6892. all-day seminars will be held at the Lab or regionally within states. "State-of-the-Art in Topics for this closer, in-depth look Instructional Systems Design" at computers in education will be , 1980 identified at the "brown baggers".

"State-of-the-Art in Instructional Management AROUND THE COUNTRY Design" November 26, 1980 Attached is a list of upcoming conferences and workshops around the o "Hardware Selection" country. If you know of a workshop, December 15, 1980 seminar, conference, etc. in your area, please let us know. We will greatly appreciate it.

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The following list of publications, o International Directory-of software sources and hardware news is Software 1980-81 $140 compiled from notices received by the Lists over 3,000 software Computer Technology Program. These products on 1,105 pages. materials have not necessarily been Hard cover book. reviewed for quality by the program CUYB Publications, Inc. staff. First Federal Bldg, Suite 401 Pottstown, PA19464 o Datapro Digest: All About 215/326-5188 Personal Computers $25 Compares 15 of the most o A Look into Computer Careers popular microcomputer A 16-page pamphlet "designed systems, plus directories of to help you explore the 497 software package vendors potential of a computing and 448 peripheral career". manufacturers. Soft cover. American Federation of Datapro Research Corporation Information Processing Societies 1805 Underwood Blvd 1815 North Lynn Street, Suite 800 Dairen, NJ08075 Arlington, VA 2220 9 609/764-0100 703/558-3600

o A 4-page MicroSIFT brochure is under development and will be available soon. We will be glad to provide copies for distribution at workshops, seminars, conferences, etc.

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paCgun,c jachersar 4oegesfun1versiteou1d offe Directors in computer , 4hteracy for all students / V V J 'V' concen.tng4 K-lZ4ComputeScience toy V,çregardless of major A11 acafsoj4ontana '.Computer Science' V prospective teachershould have this coursealso. MattEduction Departments and c) ,cha1rsofMontana Education 5.Problems facing Montana Compuer1 V /VScience teachers are ' t3' .a ¶ t 4 ;r*:a J , ,4 / a a ? BecauseV many V,,hlgh. school students ,. ,, There is little or'no teacher:,. arefrèceiving oneVor two semesters :Vytraining.V.L' -" incomputerprogramming, it is 4recori1nended thaLtesting and ,Y' srThose ,who teach beginning "counseling be set up to protect prograrrning are not prepared to1.- sucstüdent' from needless teach advanced levels, though ) duplication when attending college tkfnts request it;L They neid/' 1p via, inservic ducation '2Thosestudents with high school , ç ComputrSciend?e exposure to programming may benefit .Pre-coflege bybecôining familiars with their , teachersaiwlll need -servi ;ycouege's computing configuration : training regarding oftware ItZis recommended that each ,j'hardware, languagechoice, y callege/university offers a jC teaching methods, etcj

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'-'--' S - '1: 8- 555 -- Northwest Regiond Educabbnal Labolory micro IFT WORKSHOP/SEMINAR SCHEDULE

NOTE: Please DO NOT contact MicroSIFT for further information.

DATE: November 10 - 21, 1980 WHAT: Basic Data Communications Course (8-1) WHERE: McGraw Hill World Headquarters, FEE: Tuition $1,075.00, plus a non-refundable registra_ion fee of $25. CONTACT: Data Communications Institute, McGraw-Hill Conference & Exposition Center, Room 3677; 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10021; phone (212) 997-4930

DATE: November 17 21, 1980 WHAT: Data Base Concepts and Design WHERE: San Francisco (no other information available at this time) FEE: Unknown CONTACT: American Management Association, 135 West 50th Street, New York, New York 10020, phone (212) 586-8100

DATE: November 18 19, 1980 WHAT: Interactive Videodisc and Media Storage in Education and Job Training WHERE: Howard Johnson's National Airport, 2650 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202, phone (703) 684-7200 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street, Warrenton, Virginia 22186

DATE: November 20 - 21, 1980 WHAT: Fourth Western Educational Computing Conference WHERE: Kona Kai Club, Shelter Island, San Diego, FEE: Unknown CONTACT: Hal Roach, Manager of Computer Services, Mt. San Antonio College, 1110 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut, California 91789

DATE: November 20 - 21, 1980 WHAT: Microcomputers in Education and Training WHERE: Howard Johnson's National Airport, 2650 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202, phone, (703) 684-7200 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street, Warrenton, Virginia22186

DATE: November 21 22, 1980 WHAT: Microcomputers in the Classroom (a regional conference) WHERE: Wichita State University FEE: Unknown CONTACT: Richard Cornelius, Department of Chemistry, Wichita State Univ., Wichita, Kansas 67208, phone (316) 689-3120

Page 1 of 3 October, 1980 10 DATE: December 3 - 4, 1980 WHAT: Instructional Systems Design WHERE: Howard Johnson's National Airport, 2650 JeffersonDavis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202, phone (703) 684-7200 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street,Warrenton, Virginia22186

DATE: December 8 - 12, 1980 WHAT: Data Base Concepts and Design WHERE: St. Perersburg, Florida (no other informationavailable at this time) FEE: Unknown CONTACT: American Management Association, 135 West 50 Street, NewYork, New York10020, phone (212) 586-8100

DATE: December 16 - 17, 1980 WHAT: Interactive Videodisk and Media Storage in Education and Job Training WHERE: Holiday Inn North, Newark International Airport, 160Holiday Plaza, Newark, New Jersey07114, phone (201) 589-1000 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street,Warrenton, Virginia22186

DATE: December 18 - 19, 1980 WHAT: Microcomputers in Education and Training WHERE: Holiday Inn North, Newark International Airport, 160Holiday Plaza, Newark, New Jersey 07114, phone(201) 589-1000 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street,Warrenton, Virginia22186

DATE: January 15 - 16, 1981 WHAT: Instructional Systems Design WHERE: Howard Johnson's National Airport, 2650 JeffersonDavis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202, phone (703) 684-7200 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street,Warrenton, Virginia 22186

DATE: January 20 - 21, 1981 WHAT: Interactive Videodisc and Media Storage in Education andJob Training WHERE: Sheraton Orlando International Airport, 3835Beeline Expressway, Orlando, Florida 32809, phone (305) 859-2711 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street, Warrenton, Virginia 22186

Page 2

11 DATE: January 22 - 23, 1981 WHAT: Microcomputers in Education and Training WHERE: Sheraton Orlando International Airport, 3835 Beeline Expressway, Orlando, Florida 32809 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street, Warrenton, Virginia 22186

DATE: February 25 26, 1981 WHAT: Instructional Systems Design WHERE: Howard Johnson's National Airport, 2650 JeffersonDavis Highway, Arlington, Virginia22202 FEE: $375 prior to start, $395 if invoiced CONTACT: Learning Technology Institute, 50 Culpeper Street, Warrenton, Virginia 22186

Association for Educational Data Systems Workshops

Washington, D.C. 20036 CONTACT: AEDS Workshops, 1201 16th St., N.W.,

DATE: January 14 - 15, 1981 WHAT: Instructional Uses of Microcomputers WHERE: Cincinnati, Ohio FEE: Unknown

DATE: January 15 - 16, 1981 WHAT: Individual Education Programming WHERE: Washington, D.C. FEE: Unknown

DATE: February 12 - 13, 1981 - Orlando,Florida March 12 - 13, 1981 Sc. Louis, Missouri & the Development and WHAT: Micro-Mini Computers, Personal Computers, Evaluation of Educational Programs in ComputerScience and Date Processing WHERE: See above FEE: Unknown

DATE: March WHAT: Planning and Support for EducationalComputing WHERE: Scottsdale, Arizona FEE: Unknown

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Computer Technology Program Northwest Regional Education Laboratory 710 S.W. Second Avenue Portland, OR 97204

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NORTHWEST REGIONALEDUCATIONALLABORATORY 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800

issue of Resources in Education, the MicroSIFT Update monthly index to materials in the ERIC system. The last word many of you had from us was our October 1980 issue of MicroSIFT NEWS. When it is announced, you will be able to Quiet we may have been, but certainly not identify it by its "ED number," and idle. request it from any collection of ERIC microfiche at university libraries, state departments of education, and some public Evaluator's Guide and Reviews libraries. We have completed a pilot test and a field test of the Evaluator's Guide and If you wish to purchase your own copy of evaluation instruments. This involved it in either the paper or microfiche organizing 10 Evaluation Network sites, edition, use the form at the back of any providing them with Guides and forms, and issue of Resources in Education for selecting the software to be reviewed. obtaining it from the Education Document The site coordinators located teachers Reproduction Service. within their jurisdiction to use the Guide, review the software, and evaluate Next Year the process. The Evaluator's Guide and forms have been revised based on Next year MicroSIFT will continue to participants' feedback. The Guide coordinate the courseware review process, provides background information and forms and will expand the evaluation model to to aid teachers and other educators in include criteria for administrative evaluating educational software and applications. Through the MicroSIFT courseware. Network we will develop and disseminate a series of Reports to Decision Makers on This Newsletter includes the first set of topics including: published reviews completed by Network site reviewers. Subsequent reviews will Microcomputers in School Administration be completed using the revised Guide and Long-Range Planning and Support forms. Computer Literacy Courseware Selection Courseware reviews will be made available through a variety of print sources.ERIC Another priority for next year is the will receive all reviews as they are MicroSIFT courseware information database, completed, as will a number of other called RICE: Resources in Computer dissemination sources.The International Education, which will be made accessible Council on Computers in Education (ICCE) to users around the country. will also publish reviews.Their address is ICCE, Department of Computing and Information Sciences, University of List ©i Catalogues Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403. There is a proliferation of software/courseware catalogues available The Evaluator's Guide is not available from a variety of sources.We have from this office. It has been entered into compiled a list (page 18) of the most the ERIC (Educational Resources widely circulated catalogues and how to Information Center) system and will be obtain them. We hope this will help you ---- announced in the January or February 1982 locate quality materials for your classrooms.

Volume 2 Number IOctober 1981 Permission is hereby granted to reproduce and distribute this Newsletter micro SIFT __I 14 micro SIFT 2'

Checklist/Guide to selecting a small Letters! Letters! computer.Wilma E. Bennett. Pilot The surprising volume of mail we receive Industries, Inc., 347 Fifth Avenue, every day precludes thepossibility of our New York 10016; 1980. answering each letter, even when it contains a specific request.We will, The Computing Teacher. Vol. 8, No. however, continue to respond to questions 1, Computing Center, Eastern Oregon and needs through articles in trade State College, La Grande, OR 97850 journals such as The Computing Teacher, ($2.00). and through the distribution of courseware reviews. Some bases for choosing a computer system: suggestions for educators. We appreciate your support and tremendous J. Educational Technology Systems, interest in MicroSIFT and will do our best Vol. 8, No. 1, Baywood Publishing Co., to keep everyone informed of our Inc., 1979-80. actiJities. How to make the right decisions about microcomputers. Instructional Selecting a Microcomputer Innovator, . A frequent question to MicroSIFT is some version of the following: "We have ($500, Let the buyer compare. Fox, Tom. $1,000, $2,000) left in (Title IV, Gifted Interface Age, Vol. 6, No. 1, January 'and Talented, Special Education).Which 1981. microcomputer should we buy?"The question is reasonable, but the response Computer selection handbook. Decision is not simple. Hardware selection should resources. Interface Age, Vol. 6, he based on a degree of planning, needs No. 2, February, 1981. analysis, and knowledge of District/School goals and objectives. At the risk of Guide to small computers. Barden, overcomplicating the process, we are William. Creative Computing, Vol. 6, providing a bibliography of selected No. 2, February, 1981. recent references on the topic of Selecting a Microcomputer. Buying a computer by R.F.P (request for proposal).Cortesi, David. Bibliography of Resources Interface Age., Vol. 6, No. 3, March, 1981. Datapro's survey of personal, desktop and microcomputer systems. Purchasing a microcomputer. Temkin, Computerworld Magazine May 18, 1981. Kenneth.Classroom Computer News, Vol. 1. No. 4, March, 1981. Microcomputer buying guide.Media & Methods Magazine, Vol. 18, No. 3, Some thoughts on buying acomputer, . Fox, Tom. Interface Age,Vol. 6, No. 3: March, 1981. So you want to buy a computer? Instructor Magazine, Vol 89, No. 8, Shopping for Technology. Electronic . Learning, Vol. 1, No. 1,Sept./Oct. 1981. The Computer shopping guide. Instructor Magazine, Vol 89, March Frederich, Franz J.Guide to 1980. Microcomputers Association for Educational Communications and Potential and limits of computers in Technology, Washington, D.C. 1980. schools. Educational Leadership, Vol. 37, No. 6, March 1980

is:orthwelt ReleonatElueational Laboratory

^.1\41 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Porlind, O -gon 97204 (503) 249.6800 15 . ,

nficnaiSIFT 3

Consumer's guide to personal computing Courseware Reviews and microcomputers.Gray, Stephen. Creative Computing, Vol. 7, No. 5, The reviews included in this newsletter May, 1981. are a result of the field test of the MicroSIFT evaluation process in the Spring Problem areas in computer purchases. of 1981. Many people were involved in Maclennan, Elliott. Interface Age, this effort; they have provided an Vol. 6, No. 4, April, 1981. important experiential base for improving the instruments and instructional Microshopper: The new computers. process. The reviews should be read with Smolin, Rocky.Interface Age, Vol. 6, the following information governing your No. 6, June, 1981. interpretation: 80 Microcomputing's buyers guide to 1. The reviews are the result of printers. 80 Microcomputing, No. 18, professional opinions based on June, 1981. experience, and are not necessarily based on observation Micro resource update. Dial, of student use of the packages William.Micro, No. 37, June, 1981. although certain evaluations did include such use. When it was Computer-purchase prelims: Helpful possible to involve students, it hints from computer retailers.White, was noted in the evaluation. Rene. Infoworld, Vol. 3, Also, a package may be evaluated No. 8. at a point in the school year not in conjunction with the time the Buyer's guide used computers. to topic was studied. D'Zamba, Deanna. Infoworld, Vol. 3, No. 7. 2. Each review is a composite summary of the evaluations of at Match your new computer to your least two teachers who have needs. Poppelbaum, T. L. On experience at the subject and Computing, Vol. 3, No. 1, Summer, 1981. level of the material, and one person having broad experience Selecting a microcomputer: It's more with microcomputer software, than the hardware. Sturdivant, hardware and instructional Patricia and Finkel, LeRoy. Classroom In the field test, Computer News, Vol. 1, No. 6, applications. some packages were evaluated in . July-August, 1981. several different states. How to select a personal computer. Thornburg, David D. Recreational 3. The following information is Computing, Vol. 10, No. 1, Issue 52, included in each review: July/Aug 1981. Package Description:producer, Buyer's guide to personal computers, version, grade level, subject, video and electronic games, and medium of transfer, required consumer electronics. Creative hardware and software, Computing, Vol. 7, No. 9, September, instructional techniques, 1981. objectives, and prerequisites, available documentation, content and structure, potential uses, and major stengths and weaknesses.

North writ Regional Educational Laboratory .300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 20-6800 16 4 micro SIFT

Evaluation Summary: ratings William Witt based on the content, D. Witt instructional and technical M. Kramer quality of the program.An John Brunsting abbreviated version of the Michael Broadus Evaluator's Guide courseware Paul Halac evaluation form appears in each Ann Dana review.Specific information Richard Valentine about each item may be found in Dale Devine the Evaluator's Guide. Eric Vann Sandy Cunningham MicroSIFT is grateful to the following people who participated in the field test, Linn-Benton Education Service either by assisting with coordination of District, Albany, Oregon the review process, completing a courseware review using MicroSIFT Dave Moore instruments, or providing a summary review. Debbie Kitchen Ron Easton San Mateo Educational Resource Center, Ash Leppink California Region IV Educational Service Center, Leroy Finkel Houston, Texas Pat Tubbs Gerry Sipes Martha Wong Sophia White Otis Smith Bobby Goodson Kathy Herring Richard Pugh Sue Wilson Sandy Bove R.D. Thomas Eugene Worthington Michelle Davis Mary Liontre Morris Gelber Ann Lathrop Lila Macaluso Minnesota School Districts Data Kathryn Thompson Processing Joint Board Verna Mair Janette Van Gossen Jim Sydow Virginia Gillespie Sue Talley Shirley Schubert Betty Von Maszewski Minnesota Educational Computing Pat Sturdivant Consortium Jefferson County Public Schools, Barbara Mewaldt Colorado Karen Jostad Elmer Mattila Jim Tulley Marge Kosel Gene Collins Ken Brumbaugh Technical Education Resource Center, North Clackamas School District, Oregon Cambridge, Massachusetts

Ron Beaulieu Tim Barclay Jerry Larer Region X Educational Service Center, Institute for Educational Research, Dallas, Texas Chicago, Illinois Robbie Plummer John Mack Colleen Walsh Helen Chikow

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Port/and, Oregon 97204 (503),248.6800 17 microSIFT 5

Criteria for Evaluation 20. The program appropriately uses relevant computer capabilities. The following criteria were applied by 21. The program is reliable in normal reviewers in evaluating courseware. use. Reviewers were asked to indicate agreement or disagreement (or strong Reviewers were asked to check one of the agreement/disagreement) with each of the following: following statements: I would use or recommend use of this package with little or no CONTENT change. 1. The content is accurate. 2. The content has educational value. I would use or recommend use of 3. The content is free of race, this package only if certain ethnic, sex, and other changes were made. stereotypes. I would not use or recommend this INSTRUCTIONAL QUALITY package. 4. The purpose of the package is well-defined. Finally, reviewers were asked to: 5. The package achieves its defined describe the potential use of the 'purpose. package in classroom settings 6. Presentation of content is clear describe major strengths of the and logical. package describe major weaknesses of the 7. The level of difficulty is appropriate for the target package audience. 8. Graphics/color/sound are used for appropriate instructional reasons. 9. Use of the package is motivational. 10. The package effectively stimulates student creativity. 11. Feedback on student responses is effectively employed. 12. The learner.controlo the rate and sequence of presentation and review. 13. Instruction is integrated with previous student experience. 14. Learning is generalizable to an appropriate range of situations. 15. The user support materials are comprehensive. 16. The user support materials are effective. 17. Information displays are effective. 18. Intended users can, easily and independently operate the program. 19. Teachers can easily employ the package.

Northweit Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 18 6 micro SIFT

Library Skills: What's There section also defines a library in terms of and How to Find It the kinds of materials most commonly found in modern collections. Part II allows the student to choose among four skills: Program Description identifying fiction, non-fiction, and PRODUCER: Micro Power and Light Company biography; learning how books are VERSION: Apple II GRADE: 4+ SUBJECT: arranged; using the Dewey Decimal System Library Skills: Identifying and locating and the card catalogue to locate books; fiction, non-fiction, biography; using and using reference materials. Each skill Dewey numbers, card catalogue, reference section begins with an objective, a books MEDIUM OF TRANSFER: 5" Flex. Disk definition and example(s).This is REQUIRED HARDWARE: Apple II with at least followed by a short series of drill and 32K RAM, Applesoft in ROM, a single disk practice exercises. Students may set drive, color monitor. REQUIRED SOFTWARE: their own pace and ask for help from a Applesoft Basic INSTRUCTIONAL "First Aid Station." Part III is a brief TECHNIQUES: Drill and Practice, tutorial final drill on all of the skills. DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: suggested grade/ability level, instructional POTENTIAL USES:,The program may be used objectives, program operating as a supplementary exercise in a school instructions, post-test library skills program, or as a means of assessing a student's skill level prior to INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: At the instruction. completion of the program, students will be able to: identity and locate fiction, MAJOR STRENGTHS: The program is cheerful, non-fiction and biographies, use the Dewey student paced and uses color graphics Decimal System to locate non-fiction appropriately. The operating instructions books, use the card catalogue to locate are well stated and available when needed. books, and know how to locate and use reference books. MAJOR WEAKNESSES: The program has spelling and factual errors and provides INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES:To use the only minimal tutorial assistance to program successfully, students will need students. The instructional quality of to: know the computer keyboard and the the program is shallow and incomplete and Yes and No commands, be able to read at allows students to go through it giving fifth grade level, be able to learn from a wrong answers and receive a passing minimal amount of information and grade. Practice exercises are too short, practical exercises, and have had prior definitions vague and/or misleading, the exposure to a library. reteaching is repetition of past presentations, and documentation is nearly CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: the program is nonexistent. Students are allowed to organized into three sections. Part I is choose among the skills at random, a series of text displays telling the however, the tutorials and exerci.st:t, are student what the computer will do and how designed sequentially. The vocabulary and when to respond. This introductory level is too difficult for fourth graders. Evaluation Summary

D Content accuracy A Appropriate motivational level SD Program comprehensiveness D Educational value NAChallenges student creativity SD Adequate packaging Effective information displays SA Lacks cultural stereotyping D Feedback effectively employed D A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of SD Clarity of irbtructions SD Accomplishes stated objectives format SD Teacher facility with program D Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior A Appropriate use of computer SD D Appropriate difficulty level learning technology A Program reliability A Appropriate graphics/sound/color D Content can be generalized .. SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would not use this package (Note Major Weaknesses). Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 19 micro)SIFT

Limits of Sequences

Program Description PRODUCER: Math Software VERSION: © 1980 concept as applied to sequences, be GRADES: 11-14 SUBJECT: Mathematics: knowledgeable about the various sequences Graphical representation of limits of provided in the menu and the notation used sequencesMEDIUM OF TRANSFER: 5" Flex. within these sequences, and understand two Disk REQUIRED HARDWARE: Apple II or dimensional graphing. Apple II plus with Applesoft Firmware using a disk drive with a minimum of 32K CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: The program of memory. REQUIRED SOFTWARE: Dos 3.2 or graphically displays approximately Dos 3.3 with Basics diskette fifty-five terms of a sequence.First, INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Simulation, the epsilon neighborhood of the limit is DemontrationDOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: drawn with the value of-epsilon. The Suggested grade level, program operating threshold value, M, is then computed and instructions, description printed. This provides a graphic interpretation of the definition of limit INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate of sequences which shows that the nth graphically a sequence; to demonstrate the sequence terms are within the epsilon definition Lim a(n) = L; n---r<>01 to neighborhood of the limit when n7M. The demonstrate the neighborhood definition of five menu selections enable the user to limits in general and sequences in choose a suggested sequence or to specify particular; and to demonstrate the concept his/her own sequence choice. of convergence of a sequence. POTENTIAL USES: The program may be used INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program effectively in a classroom setting as an assumes the students know the definition introduction to a unit on limits. It can of a sequence from a functional point of provide a meaningful tool to expand and view, theoretically understand the limit enhance students comprehension of sequences and their limits.

MAJOR STRENGTHS: None cited. MAJOR WEAKNESSES: The formula disappears from the final graph.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy A Appropriate motivational level A Program comprehensiveness A Educational value A Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping NAFeedback effectively employed D Effective information displays A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of NAClarity of instructions A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program A .- A Clarity of content pregemauun Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate use of computer A A A Appropriate difficulty level learning technology SAAppropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of package with little or no change.

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory .6t3300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 20 8 micro SIFT

Limacons and Their Areas

Program Description PRODUCER: Math Software VERSION: c© 1980 CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: The program GRADES: 11-14 SUBJECT: Mathematics: consists of three parts. The first Graphs of Limacons with area section describes limacons whose equations approximationsMEDIUM OF TRANSFER: 5" are r=a+b (sin)t or r=a+b cos(t). The Flex. DiskREQUIRED HARDWARE:Apple II effects of changing the values of a and b or Apple II Plus with Applesoft firmware are described in written form and also using a disk drive and a.minimum of 32K of shown graphically.The effects of using memory REQUIRED SOFTWARE:Dos 3.2 or Dos the sine function or the cosine function 3.3 with Basics diskette INSTRUCTIONAL are also shown. The second section allows TECHNIQUES: Simulation, Demonstration students to choose the values of a and b DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: Suggested grade and cosine or sine. The program then level, program operating instructions, graphs the limacon on the hi-resolution description screen. The third section allows students to calculate various areas enclosed by the INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate limacon. The program will give an the curves formed by r=A+B cos(t) and approximate value of this area. r=A+B sin(t); to demonstrate graphically the effects of changing A and B in these POTENTIAL USES: The program may be used equations; to define and show by example effectively in a classroom setting to the family of curves known as limacons; to demonstrate graphs of limacons. reinforce polar graphing techniques; and to describe areas of polar curves from a MAJOR STRENGTHS: The program provides a sector summation approach good demonstration and reinforcement of polar graphing techniques. INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program assumes that students understand polar MAJOR WEAKNESSES: None cited. coordinates, polar graphing techniques, radian measure of angles, and the functions sine(t), cos(t) and their graphs.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy A Appropriate motivational level A Program comprehensiveness A Educational value A Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping A Feedback effectively employed A Effective information displays A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of A Clarity of instructions A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program AClarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate use of computer A Appropriate difficulty level learning technology AAppropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized ,1 Program reliability SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly DisagreeNA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of package with little or no change.

Northweit Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 21 9

Function Grapher

Program Description PRODUCER: Math Software VERSION: ©1980 CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: The opening menu GRADES: 8-14 SUBJECT:Mathematics: offers students the choice of circular Graphs, most functions, and their (trig) functions, absolute value inversesMEDIUM OF TRANSFER: 5" Flex. functions, greatest integer functions, Disk REQUIRE HARDWARE:Apple II or Apple polynomial functions, or student-supplied II Plus with Applesoft Firmware using a function3. Once inside the circular disk drive with a 48K memoryREQUIRED function category, students may select SOFTWARE: Dos 3.2 or Dos 3.3 with Basics either sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, diskette INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: secant, cosecant, or choose to supply Simulation, Problem Solving, their own circular' function. If a student DemonstrationDOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: selects the polynomial function category Suggested grade level, program operating s/he is offered the choice of linear, instructions, description quadratic, cubic, or quartic function or the opportunity to supply a special INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To be able to function. Regardless of the category, draw the graph of any function under once a specific function has been selected discussion including polynomial, students supply each coefficient. To trigonometric, logarithmic and enable an investigation of the role of the exponential; to demonstrate the graphing coefficients, students may also elect to of functions which have discontinuities; have the computer graph a second function to provide an alternative to chalk and on the same set of axes. blackboard or overhead projector drawing of graphs; to provide reinforcement of POTENTIAL USES: The prOgram may be used ordered pairs and their relationships to effectively in a classroom setting to graphs; and to allow for more than one demonstrate the graphing of most functions function to be graphed on the same set of and their inverses. axes in order to explore intrinsic relationships oetween the graphs. MAJOR STRENGTHS: The program is very effective in stimulating student INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program creativity. assumes that students understand the definition of a function both in formula, MAJOR WEAKNESSES: None cited. ordered pair, and graphical forms. Students should also be knowledgeable about two dimensional graphing.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy SA Appropriate motivational level A Program comprehensiveness SA Educational value SA Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping NAFeedback effectively employed SA Effective information display- A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of A Clarity of instructions A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program A Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate useof computer A Appropriate difficulty level learning technology A Appropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly DisagreeNA = Not Applicable Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of package with little or no change. rA,,, Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 22 10 microSIFT

Binomial Multiplication

Program Description

PRODUCER: Math Software VERSION: @1980 INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program GRADES: 8-12SUBJECT: Mathematics: assumes that students are familiar with Graphical presentation of binomial multiplying monomials, know the multiplication MEDIUM OF TRANSFER: 5" distributive property, and understand the Flex. DiskREQUIRED HARDWARE: Apple II concept of area as it relates to the or Apple II Plus with Applesoft Firmware rectangle. Students should also have had using a disk drive with a minimum of 32K algebraic practice in binomial of memoryREQUIRED SOFTWARE: Dos 3.2 or multiplication. Dos 3.3 with Basics disketteINSTUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Simulation, Demonstration CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: This program DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: Suggested grade demonstrates that (x+A)(X+B)=x2+Ax+Bx+AB level, program operating instructions, is a true equation. Students may input description any value of "A" or "B" from -5 to 5 inclusive. Using graphics, the INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate equivalence of the right and left hand that the product of two binomials is a sides of the equation is shown through the valid process; to show that binomial use of areas. multiplication has a relationship to the areas of rectangular geometric regions; to POTENTIAL USES: The program may be used demonstrate the effect that negative effectively in a classroom setting to values for A and B have on the geometric demonstrate a unique approach to area analog; and to demonstrate a unique understanding binomial multiplication. approach to considering binomial multiplication. MAJOR STRENGTHS: The program provides a good demonstration of binomial multiplication.

MAJOR WEAKNESSES: Information displays disappear before students have time to digest them.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy A Appropriate motivational level A Program comprehensiveness A Educational value A Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping A Feedback effectively employed 1 D Effective information ditplavc A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of A Clarity of instructions AAccomplishes stated objectives format ATeacher facility with program A.Clarity of content presentation Appropriate inlegration with prior A Appropriate use of computer A Appropriate difficulty level learning technology A Appropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA = Strongly Agree A = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly DisagreeNA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of packagewith little or no change. riaNorthwest Regional Educational Laboratory A1.9 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248-6800 23 Micro SIFT 11

Arithmetic Racing

Program Description

PRODUCER: Math SoftwareVERSION: ©1980 CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: ARITHMETIC RACING GRADES: 4-11SUBJECT: Mathematics: Speed is a game of timed arithmetic practice for and accuracy drill of arithmetic students grades 4-11. Players first operations MEDIUM OF TRANSFER:5" Flex. select either addition, subtraction, Disk REQUIRED HARDWARE: Apple II or multiplication, or division and then Apple II Plus with Applesoft Firmware specify the largest number they want the using a disk drive with 32K of memory computer to give them. Players also REQUIRED SOFTWARE:Dos 3.2 or Dos 3.3 select a speed level from 1-5. The with Basics diskette INSTRUCTIONAL computer then assigns a point value to TECHNIQUES:Game, Problem Solving, Drill each problem based on these selections.A and Practice DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: twentyfive point bonus is added to the Suggested grade level, program operating score for answering each of the ten instructions, demonstration questions correctly.

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To improve POTENTIAL USES: The program may be used students' arithmetic skills in addition, in a classroom setting to provide drill multiplication, subtraction, and division; and practice in basic arithmetic to provide an interesting interactive operations. environment for remediation work in arithmetic facts, and to develop speed and MAJOR STRENGTHS: The game format offers accuracy in working basic arithmetic an incentive for students needing drill operations. and practice in arithmetic operations.

INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program MAJOR WEAKNESSES: None cited. assumes that students know basic arithmetic facts concerning the operations of addition, multiplication, subtraction and division. Students also need to understand the rules governing the operation of the computer game.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy A Appropriate motivational level A Program comprehensiveness SA Educational value A Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping A Feedback effectively employed A Effective information displays Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of A Clarity of iostctionsru A A A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program A Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate use of computer A A A Appropriate difficulty level learning technology SAAppropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly DisagreeNA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of package with little or no chai.ge. Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 24 -6 micro

Arithmetic of Functions

Program Description PRODUCER: Math SoftwareVERSION: ©1980 addition, subtraction, multiplication, and GRADES: 9-14 SUBJECT: Mathematics: division relative to specific mathematics Addition, Multiplication, Subtraction, functions. If the program is to be used Division of functions MEDIUM. OF to demonstrate limits, students should TRANSFER: 5" Flex. DiskREQUIRED understand the limit concept. If the HARDWARE: Apple II or Apple II Plus with program is to be used to show Applesoft Firmware using a disk drive with trigonometric identities, students should 32K of memoryREQUIRED SOFTWARE: Dos 3.2 have prior knowledge of these or Dos 3.3 with Basics diskette trigonometric identities. INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Problem solving, Demonstration DOCUMENTATION CONTENT AND STRUCTURE:The program AVAILABLE:Suggested grade level(s), provides a display of the computer program operating instructions, description potential in function graphing.There are eight menu selections for each function INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate followed by four choices for the graphically the combining of two functions operation.The menu selections generate using arithmetic operations and the graphic verification of certain resulting effect on the graph; to trigonometry relationships including a demonstrate graphically limiting processes double angle formula, some halfangle and trigonometric identities; to enable formulas, and some quotient teacher to create elaborate graphs; to relationships. The program also includes illustrate functional relationships via an option for usersupplied functions. two dimensional graphing. POTENTIAL USES: The program may be used INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program effectively in a classroom to demonstrate assumes that students have good addition, multiplication, subtraction, and understanding and graphic knowledge about division of functions. various mathematics functions including algebraic, polynomial, trigonometric and MAJOR STRENGTHS:The program displays the logarithmic functions; know definitions of graphing in different colors.

MAJOR WEAKNESSES: None cited.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy SA Appropriate motivational level A Program cosnprehensiveness SA Educational value SA Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping NAFeedback effectively employed A Effective information displays A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of A Clarity of instruccioru A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program A Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior SA Appropriate use of computer A Appropriate difficulty level learning technology Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA Appropriate graphics/sound/color A _ J SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of package with little or no change.

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland. Oregon 97204 (503) 243-6800 25 mtcro SIFT 13

Odell I Program Description

PRODUCER: iIECC VERSION: 4.3 GRADES: CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: This is a 4-10 SUBJECT: Science: Biology/Food simulation using he discovery approach. Chains MEDIUM OF TRANSFER: 5" Flex. Students learn about food chains by Disk REQUIRED HARDWARE:Apple II/disk assuming the identity of each fish in the drive/monitor (48k) REQUIRED SOFTWARE: lake and making choices about behavior. Diskette - Science, Vol. 3 INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Simulation, Problem solving POTENTIAL USES: Depending on student's DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: Suggested ability and background, the program could grade/ability level, instructional be used in a regular or accelerated objectives, prerequisite acitivities, classroom with small groups of students or sample program run, program operating with the entire class. instructions, teacher's guide, teacher's resource guide, student worksheets, MAJOR STRENGTHS: Students are given follow-up activities. clear, immediate, and reinforcing feedback.Simulation activities INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES:Understand appropriately involve students. concept of food web; identify 1st, 2nd, 3rd order of consumers on web; explain MAJOR WEAKNESSES: The vocabulary is above role of each animal and indicate effects the fourth grade level. The shape of the of man on lake and lake on man; define fish do not vary with name making it word,' related to food web. difficult to distinguish among them. The manual should contain an answer key and INSTR.A.:TIONAL PREREQUISITES: Program more complete instructions to teachers. assumes that students have been introduced to food chains and webs and provided with definitions of necessary terms.

Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy SA Appropriate motivational level AProgram comprehensiveness SA Educational value D Challenges student creativity A1 Adequate packaging SA Lacks cultural 3tereotyping A Feedback effectively employed A Effective information displays SA Objectives well-defined A Clarity ot instructions A Student controls presentation of A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program SAClarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate use of computer A A Appropriate difficulty level learnir3 technology A Appropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA = Strongly Agree A = AgreeD = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of package only if certain changes were made (Note Major Weaknesses).

North welt Rational Ed uctitional Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248-6800 26 micro SIFT 14 Mathematics Drill and Practice

Program Description

PRODUCER: COMPAR, Inc.VERSION: Apple II of math ideas. Package contents according grades 1-8: GRADES: 1-8SUBJECT: Math: Addition, to grade levels include: Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, addition, subtraction, multiplication, Fractions, Decimals, Measurement Geometry, division, common fractions, measurement, 4-8: Percents, Elementary AlgebraMEDIUM OF geometry, elementary algebra; grades TRANSFER: 5" Flex. DiskREQUIRED decimal fractions; grades 6 -8: percents. HARDWARE: Apple II (48K), disk drive, monitor, printer helpful for hard copy of POTENTIAL USES: The package is student progress recordsREQUIRED appropriate for use in a learning resource SOFTWARE: Dos 3.2INSTRUCTIONAL center where students may be scheduled for TECHNIQUES: Drill and Practice, Tutorial, drill and practice in a specific skill Learning ManagementDOCUMENTATION area. AVAILABLE: Suggested grade/ability level, instructional objectives, program MAJOR STRENGTHS: The package covers basic operating instructions, teacher's guide mathematics concepts and includes a mangement system that is easy forteachers INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: Using a variety to use. of teaching techniques, augment math instruction and improve student MAJOR WEAKNESSES: Each skill area does achievement; provide individual student not contain enough problems to be math skills assessment and meet individual considered an adequate drill and practice learning needs. and thus precludes students from attaining mastery in a specific math concept. INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: The program Sample problems are not provided for is not designed for totally independent students advancing to higher skill study; students need access to levels. Word problems are not included in supervision, instruction, and feedback. any of the skill areas. The package does Students must have a general understanding not provide an adequate pre-test of microcomputer operations and be able to assessment of skill deficiencies; as read above the primary level. written, the program must be entered by trial and error. At the lower levels of CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: The package computation drill in addition, contains 14 diskettes covering mathematics subtraction, and multiplication, the concepts taught in grades 1-8.The type configuration of the problems does not of instruction varies from drill and show regrouping or renaming, students are practice to introduction and development unable to graphically see the necessary sequence of steps to complete aproblem. Evaluation Summary

A Content accuracy D Appropriate motivational level SDProgram comprehensiveness D Adequate packaging A Educational value NAChallenges student creativity A Effective information displays SA Lacks cultural stereotyping D Feedback effectively employed Clarity of instructions A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of ID A Teacher facility with program D Accomplishes stated objectives format Appropriate use of computer D Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior technology I) Appropriate difficulty level learning A Appropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized A Program reliability SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Al plicable Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend useof this package only if certain changes were made (Note Major Weaknesses).

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 026300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204. (503) 24S6800 27 15

Typing Tutor

Program Description PRODUCER:Microsoft VERSION: Apple MAJOR STRENGTHS: The program is easy for II/Radio Shack TRS -80GRADES: 8-12 students to use and provides SUBJECT: Business Education: Typing non-threatening feedback.Computer terms MEDIUM OF TRANSFER: Tape Cassette, 5" are introduced as part of the typing Flex. Disk REQUIRED HARDWARE: Apple 16K, exercises. Students can expect to learn Integer Basic, BA Monitor; TRS -80 Model the keyboard with moderate proficiency. I-16K; Level II BasicREQUIRED SOFTWARE: Speed in WPM is introduced and developed Integer Basic on Apple, Level II Basic on early in the program. TRS -80. INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Drill and Practice, SimulationDOCUMENTATION MAJOR WEAKNESSES: The program manual is AVAILABLE: Instructional objectives, incomplete.The use of nonsense syllables program operating instructions, teacher's in typing exercises is not necessary; guide words are more appropriate for students to type. Students will have difficulty INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: Teach students making symbol and key transition from how to type; increase typing speed and computer keyboard to regular typewriter. efficiency. Tne documentation needs more illustrations showing how the fingers strike the various INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: None cited. keys. In addition, documentation is not explicit about how to exit program. CONTENT AND STRUCTURE: Package consists Teaching eight characters per learning of one program that uses drill and exercise is not enough; a minimum of 16 is practice to teach beginners how to use the necessary to ensure development of a standard typewriter keyboard. Paragraph stroking pattern. Students should not be typing exercises are used throughout the penalized if they leave space at the end activity. of a line. The program is inadequate for acquiring comprehensive typing POTENTIAL USES: The program may be used proficiency; program lacks other important effectively as a refresher typing course typing skills, e.g., letter forms, tab for students who need to increase speed settings, centering. and efficiency. It may also be used as a learning station in a regular classroom.

Evaluation Summary

SA Content accuracy D Appropriate motivational level SD] Program comprehensiveness SA Educational value A Challenges student creativity D :Adequate packaging NALacks cultural stereotyping SA Feedback effectively employed A iEffective information displays SAObjectives well-defined Student controls presentation of D iClarity of ign-tructions SA D Accomplishes stated objectives format A i Teacher facility with program --) A Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate use of computer NA A SA Appropriate difficulty level learning i technology NA Appropriate graphics/sound/color D Content can be generalized SA I Program reliability SA = Strongly Agree A = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of this packageonly if certain changes were made (Note Major Weaknesses).

Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory .6%300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800 28 micro4SIFT

Math Sequences

Program Description PRODUCER:Milliken Publishing Company included. The system provides drill and VERSION: Apple II, Revised (TRS-80 and practice in standard elementary math topics PET available) GRADES: 1-8 SUBJECT: including number readiness, basic operations, Math: All elementary topicsMEDIUM OF laws of arithmetic, fractions, decimals, TRANSFER: 5" Flex. DiskREQUIRED percent, equations, and measurement formulas. HARDWARE:Apple II or with Applesoft ROM 48K RAM, disk drive, monitorREQUIRED POTENTIAL USES: The package is designed to SOFTWARE:Applesoft, Dos 3.2 or 3.3 augment math instruction in an elementary INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Drill and classroom, lab or resource room. It may be Practice DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: used effectively with individuals or small Suggested grade/ability level, sample groups. In grades 1-6 the package is progam output, program operating appropriate for remediation, enrichment or instructions, teacher's information, on-level instruction; in grades 7-8 it may be resource/reference information, used for on-level or remediation; at grade 9, relationship to standard textbooks, ditto for remediation only.Students may use the masters for student record keeping package independently with minimal training.

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: Standard MAJOR STRENGTHS: The system is easy for elementary math. students and teachers to use.Formating and presentation of instructional material is INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: Package appropriate for skill levels taught. Student assumes math concepts have been taught. progress is governed by mastery and Student begins program at existing skill automatically adjusted. Inclusion of an level. optional automated instructional management system is an asset for teachers. CONTENT AND STUCTURE: The package consists of 12 diskettes in a 3-ring MAJOR WEAKNESSES: Students may have difficulty binder, a teacher's guide, duplicating starting a session because habitual use of masters for student record forms, and an return key between response to name, class, and instruction card.An optional automated level, results in return to the beginning of instructional management system is the program. Management system lacks instruction and examples for easy classroom implementation.

Evaluation Summary

SAContent accuracy SAAppropriate motivational level A Program comprehensiveness SA Educational value D Challenges student creativity Adequate packaging SALacks cultural stereotyping A Feedback effectively employed SA Effective information displays A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of A Clarity of instructions A A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Teacher facility with program Appropriate use of computer SAClarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior A A technology SAAppropriate difficulty level learning SA Appropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized SA Program reliability SA = Strongly Agree A = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable

Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of this package with little or no change.

Northwest Regional Educational laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 24, (-6800 29 microiS1FT 17

Circulation (Organs)

Program Description

PRODUCER: Micro Power and Light Company opportunities for the user to review the VERSION: N/AGRADES: 5-12SUBJECT: animations which are used to illustrate Science: Human Circulatory System MEDIUM specific concepts. Tutorials include OF TRANSFER: 5" Flex. DiskREQUIRED quizzes on previous lessons. HARDWARE: Apple II Plus, 32K, single disk The program could be used drive, color monitor REQUIRED SOFTWARE: POTENTIAL USES: Applesoft, Dos 3.2INSTRUCTIONAL to review science or health related It TECHNIQUES:Drill and Practice, Tutorial, topics, or for free time enrichment. Game DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE: Suggested may also be used effectively as a resource grade/ability level, instructional center activity where students rotate objectives, program operating through stations or it could be the focus instructions, teacher's information of a class exercise with teams competing for points. INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES: To teach the functions of the organs of the circulatory MAJOR STRENGTHS: Computer responses are Correct answer is given if system. "friendly." student gives an incorrect answer.The program is designed for easy entry and INSTRUCTIONAL PREREQUISITES: Teacher The student can bypass previously should go through the instructional cycle exit. studied material. There is plenty of with the student prior to using. Requires opportunity for review. User controls a third grade reading ability and some Content is segmented instruction in health or science at grades rate of learning. into small units. 3 or 4. MAJOR WEAKNESSES: Use of blue color to CONTENT AND STRUCTURE:The program represent lungs and cells that have teaches the functions of the heart, blood, received oxygen deviates from the usual arteries, capillaries,'veins, and lungs. The option for students to The student has a choice of three color scheme. play a game without going first to an instructional modes: tutorials with instructional mode is presented too animated sequences, truefalse quizzes, Students tend to go directly to and car race games using truefalse early. the game option, later finding they cannot questions and a time limit. Tutorial be successful if they skipped the sequences are short and provide instruction section.

Evaluation Summary Program comprehensiveness A Content accuracy A Appropriate motivational level A SA Educational value A Challenges student creativity A Adequate packaging Effective information displays SA Lacks cultural stereotyping SAFeedback effectively employed A Clarity of instructions A Objectives well-defined Student controls presentation of SA SA SA l Teacher facility with program A Accomplishes stated objectives format A Clarity of content presentation Appropriate integration with prior Appropriate use of computer A A technology A Appropriate difficulty level learning A Appropriate graphics/sound/color A Content can be generalized SA Program reliability SA = Strongly AgreeA = Agree D = Disagree SD = Strongly Disagree NA = Not Applicable Evaluators indicate they would use or recommend use of thispackage with little or no change.

era Northwest Regional Educational 1-shordtory 300S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204* (503) 248.6800 30 . - .

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Microcomputer Software Catalogue List

The following commercially produced Name: K-12 MicroMedia catalogues contain sources and sometimes Source: P.O. Box 17 evaluations of microcomputer software. No Valley Cottage, N.Y. 10989 endorsement of quality is implied by entry Cost: Free (30 day moneyback on this list. Address and cost guarantee on software) information may change over time. II. General Catalogues -- Several Fields I. General Catalogues Educational Applications These catalogues list software for many fields including education, from a variety Name: Education Software Directory of vendors. (Apple II Edition) Source: Sterling Swift Publishing Co. Name: Radio Shack TRS-80 P.O. Box 188 Applications Software Manchaca, TX 78652 Sourcebook Cost: $9.95 (education price) Source: Radio Shack Box 17400 Name: School MicroWare Fort Worth, TX 76102 Source: Dresden Associates (Available in Radio Shack P.O. Box 246 computer shops) Dresden, ME 04342 Cost: $1 Cost: $20/year (includes updates) Name: TRS-80 Software Source Name: MARCK No 2 Source: COMPUTERMAT Source: MARCK 280 Linden Avenue P.O. Box 1664 BrLIford, CT 06405 Lake Havasu City, Cost: $4.95 AZ 86403 Cost: $6 /issue; $15/year Name: Queue, Catalog No. 4 Source: Queue Name: 80 Software Critique 5 Chapel Hill Drive Source: RWC Microcomputing Services Fairfield, CT 06432 P.O. Box 134 Cost: $8.95 single issue El Dorado, CA 95623 Cost: $7/issue; $24/yr Name: Selected Microcomputer Software Name: Atari Program Exchange Source: Opportunities for Learning, Source: Atari Inc. Inc. P.O. Box 427 8950 Lurline Avenue 155 Moffett Park Drive Chatsworth, CA 91311 Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Cost: Free Cost: $1/issue

Name: Scholastic Microcomputer Instructional Materials Source: Scholastic Inc. 904 Sylvan Avenue Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 Cost: Free (Moneyback guarantee on software) reA Northweit Regional Educational Laboratory UZI 300 S.W. Sixth Avenue Portland, Oregon 97204 (503) 248.6800