From the Paper
" THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COMPUTER-ASSISTED INSTRUCTION FOR READING:
AN OPINION PAPER
Introduction
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) consists of computer technologies that aid or assist education; these technologies include guided drill and practice exercises, computer visualization of objects, and computer-facilitated communication (Gifford, 1993). This paper examines computer-assisted instruction in terms of its effectiveness as an educational technology for reading, defending the position that CAI helps to improve reading but it has some definitive limitations, the most important of which is that the technology does not really produce the key reading component of comprehension.

The paper begins with a discussion of the general.."

Abstract
This paper examines the quality of use of computers in the classroom and the advantages to both students and teachers. It looks at how students can benefit from well-trained and informed teachers and how professional development is available for teachers through a variety of sources, including online education courses. It evaluates the learning opportunities provided by on-line contact for students. It looks at how computers can particularly useful in the area of second language learning and how computer-assisted instructional (CAI) programs aid development in reading and writing skills.

From the Paper
"Computers, as a visual medium, are valuable for learning about the culture (food, dress, country climate, etc.) related to the language (Willets, 1992, p. 2). Various websites maintained by tourism boards and historical societies, and the like, are interesting, entertaining, and educational in that they allow for the exploration of numerous cultures and countries around the world. Computers, as an auditory medium, are valuable for experiencing cultural/folk music, thereby enhancing a student's understanding and enjoyment of the culture and the language. Of course, "talking" programs provide examples of the spoken language and correct accent. The same can be said about the applications of the new technologies in the LEP (Limited English Proficiency) classroom, as well."

Tags:online, internet, skills, teachers, students

Abstract
This paper outlines computer-assisted instruction in the classroom, placing special attention upon the Skills Bank software this writer employs in her own work as a teaching aide working with high school students. The paper outlines the myriad benefits of the Skills Bank software and looks at how it serves to boost student self-confidence, enhance computer literacy, strengthen language arts skills, and does so without sacrificing high scholastic standards. Finally, the writer maintains that the software is excellent because it is also receptive to the needs of ESL students.

From the Paper
"Drawing upon my own knowledge of the software, I can state that the Skills Bank program allows for pre-test and post-test evaluations of students, provides numerous instructional and assignment options for both teachers (in the first instance) and students (in the second instance) and has the ability to produce comprehensive reports for teachers, students, and for school administrators. Not to be overlooked, the program interface is easy to use and students can usually utilize its various components without requiring the assistance of an instructor. In a related vein, the easy navigability of the program allows students to explore for themselves - something I have found to be a wonderful way of increasing their self-esteem. As an addendum, students learn to use the latest technology (and arguably the most important technology in our modern world) in a safe and supportive environment whenever they use Skills Bank software. "

Tags:teachers, program, students, tests

Abstract
This paper examines how computers are now part of the foreign language classroom, how they assist instructors in the development of lessons and classroom materials and provide students with a supplementary form of instruction. It critically evaluates the efficacy of CALL (Computer Assisted Language Acquisition) through an examination of four research articles with a focus on the implications of the studies on SLA (Second Language Acquisition). The articles are "Evaluating the Integration of Technology and Second Language Learning" by Bonnie Adair-Hauck et al. , "Comparing Face-to-Face and Electronic Discussion in the Second Language Classroom" by Mark Warschauer and "Computer Generated Error Feedback and Writing Process: A Link" by Judy F. Chan.
Outline
"Evaluating the Integration of Technology and Second Language Learning"
"Comparing Face-to-Face and Electronic Discussion in the Second Language Classroom"
"Computer Generated Error Feedback and Writing Process: A Link"
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The primary purpose behind the Adair-Hauck et al' (1999) study was to test the hypothesis that students engaged in 'TELL components, in lieu of one class period a week would perform French tasks in all the skills as well as students meeting four times a week (p. 279).' Also under investigation was the potential effects TELL could have on foreign language motivation, how TELL influenced students perceptions of meeting their learning goals, how TELL modified the roles of teacher and learner, and, more generally, if TELL is an effective curricular design for achieving L2 development. The rationale behind the study came from the authors' assertion that few empirical CALL studies address the question, 'What kind of software, integrated how and into what kind of syllabus, at what level of language learning, for what kind of language learners, is likely to be effective for what specific purposes? "

Tags:linguistics, methodologies, tell, sla

Abstract
Reading instruction in America is constantly changing. From the early use of phonics based hornbooks and spellers to the more recent use of "look and say" readers, the materials that teachers use for reading instruction is also changing. This paper outlines different reading philosophies and describes the materials used to teach under those philosophies. It also gives a personal account of first grade reading instruction.

Outline:
Abstract
American Reading Instruction Until the 1950's
The Great Debate
First Grade Reading Instruction

From the Paper
"Despite all of this research the whole language method remained the most popular method of reading instruction. In 1982 a study of 1609 professors of reading in 300 graduate schools found that professors of reading still considered proponents of the whole language method to have written the most worthy "classic" studies in reading(Illiteracy: An Incurable Disease). Similarly, San Diego State University Professor Patrick Groff found text used in educating reading teachers advocated the whole language method. Of the 43 texts he used, only nine stated a debate between whole language and phonics instruction even existed(Illiteracy: An Incurable Disease). "

Tags:phonics, hornbooks, language

Abstract
The paper explains the strategic and tactical applications of an E911 and CAD system that are to facilitate the taking and dispatching of emergency calls. The paper looks at the software that runs a CAD system, the capabilities and features of CAD systems and the other functions of a CAD system. The paper posits that encompassing E911 into a good computer assisted dispatch system is the best way to make sure that emergency situations are responded to in a timely fashion and that the help that is needed is received as quickly as possible.

From the Paper
"The roll out of E911 was done in two phases. The first phase was implemented in 1998. This phase required that cell phone carriers identify cell phones number and the location of the signal tower accurate to within a mile. In 2001 phase II was introduced. This phase required that all cell phone carriers in the United States provide handset or network based location detection capabilities. These capabilities allow for the callers location to be determined by its geographic location accurate to within 100 meters (E911, n.d.). This geographic location is then displayed to the dispatcher along with giving them the capability to hold an open line for as long as is needed (McEwen, n.d.)"

Tags:software, dispatchers, mapping, system, location, police

Abstract
The paper examines the three methods for teaching reading-- phonics, whole language and repeated reading and then provides a comparative analysis of these three methods. The paper concludes that the impact of the repeated reading method in improving reading fluency, word recognition accuracy and reading comprehension makes it an effective alternative for teach learning disabled students .

From the Paper
"Many educators feel that phonics is the key for teaching early reading skills to children. They maintain that young students should learn the sounds for each letter and the rules that accompany many so they may become independent readers where they sound out unfamiliar words. While teaching phonics is still an important concept, one must also understand that the whole language approach is an exciting and interesting method designed to include all subjects when teaching reading. Students learn about science, social studies, and math while participating in their language arts lesson. There are also many supporters of the Balanced Program that combine teaching phonics in the whole language classroom environment."

Tags:groups, teachers, literacy, story

Abstract
This paper discusses learning in children with learning disabilities. It discusses the need for interventions and how they are more likely to succeed and to bring about successful outcomes if applied early and carried out by teaching experts. The paper specifically focuses on the role of instructional technology and how this can aid teaching children with learning disabilities.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Section One
Learning Disabilities and Variations in Younger Children
Definitions and Overview
The Problematics of a Definition of Learning Disorder
Definitions and General Characteristics
Towards a Working Definition of LD
Overview of Learning Disabilities and Related Disorders
LD Characteristics and the Differentiation of Student Learning Needs
Characteristics and Variables
ADHD
The Issue of Multiple Intelligences
Dyslexia
Co-occurrence
Section 2
Learning Technologies and Learning Disabilities
Introduction: Overview of Learning Technologies
Advantages of Technology in Instruction
Control and Manipulation in Learning Among Sixth Graders
UDL
Other Aspects and Advantages of Technological Instruction
Technology, Confidence and Self-image
Instructional Technologies and Learning Disabilities
A Brief Overview of Theoretical Concerns
Theory and Instructional Technology for Learners with Disabilities
Various Assistive and Instructional Technologies
Specific Areas: Listening
Speech and Language
Reading
Writing
Language
Mathematics
Computers
Conclusions

From the Paper
"There is little doubt the advent of new technical innovations and computer assisted methods will increase and that there will be more methods of helping the learning disabled student on the market in the future. There is also no doubt that these technological means and methods do play a very important role in helping the learner in the modern educational context - and particularly the sixth grade student and other young adolescents."
"However what should be continually borne in mind is that technology changes the environments in which we work and learn. These changes should be researched and studied so that the impact of technology does not usurp those positive aspects from previous teaching methods and techniques that have proven to be of worth. There is a tendency in the excitement about new technologies in some quarters to, as it were, to " throw the baby out with the bath water". In other words, while technology undoubtedly brings great advances in the field of learning disabilities, it should also be treated with caution and 'interrogated' so that only the most effective and helpful technologies are employed."

Tags:computer, student, dyslexia, ADHD

Abstract
Computer-assisted instruction" is a much-debated topic in educational circles, and there is a reasonable amount of confusion concerning just how efficacious the term is. Part of the difficulty lies in the expansiveness of the subject itself, since CAI can range from simple "click here" programs designed to teach color and word identification to pre-schoolers to complex interactive anatomy software designed for medical students.

From the Paper
"The Effects of Computer-Assisted Instructions
Versus Verbal Oral Instructions
Abstract
"Computer-assisted instruction" is a much-debated topic in educational circles, and there is a reasonable amount of confusion concerning just how efficacious the term is. Part of the difficulty lies in the expansiveness of the subject itself, since CAI can range from simple "click here" programs designed to teach color and word identification to pre-schoolers to complex interactive anatomy software designed for medical students.


At issue, also, in this term is whether the CAI is as effective as the normal verbal/oral/human teaching paradigm, or is, in fact, more efficient. This proposal details..."

Tags:RESEARCH: DESIGNS & PROPOSALS, COMPUTER SCIENCE, EDUCATION: TEACHING METHODS

From the Paper
"Computer-assisted instruction and cooperative learning have both received a great deal of attention of late in the professional literature on teaching. However, despite the amount of material written on them, the two teaching strategies have had mixed results in adapting to the real world of schooling. The idea of computer-assisted instruction was introduced in the 1960s, when advances in technology first made computers in education possible. Unfortunately, the computers of that time were very large and difficult to use. However, in the 1980s, microcomputers were introduced to the American public. This revolution has made it possible for almost every school in the nation to start their own program for instruction by computer. Because of the-increased use of small computers in both home and school, there has also been a revolution in the types of software ... "