EDUCATION 486-4
    SPECIAL TOPICS: MICROCOMPUTERS IN EDUCATION
    FALL, 1985
    ?
    INSTRUCTOR: WOLFGANG ROTHEN
    WEDNESDAYS, 4:30 - 8:20
    ?
    LOCATION: MPX 8651
    The initial focus of the course will provide a familiarity with the
    microcomputer as an instructional tool. We will examine the technical terms
    that have grown to talk about microcomputer technology, and these concepts
    will be related to instructional applications that are illustrated by demon-
    strations and laboratory exercises. Lectures will emphasize the historical
    context out of which microcomputer technology arose and the roles potentially
    filled by computer-based technology.
    Midway, our attention shifts toward evaluation of microcomputer software.
    Topics singled out include: The languages in which instructional programs are
    written, instructional strategies, and models of the instructional process.
    We focus on means for evaluating software in light of these models and the
    contexts in which classroom learning occurs.
    The final portion of the course will deal with recent applications of
    computer technology in education. Our emphasis will be on advances in
    instructional theory, cognitive science, and artificial intelligence.
    OUTLINE OF TOPICS:
    1.
    The context of microcomputers in classrooms.
    2.
    Parts of microcomputers and their operation.
    3.
    Models of the instructional process.
    4.
    Instructional programming languages, software, & their evaluation.
    5.
    Classroom computers and cognitive science.
    Course activities will consist of lectures, demonstrations, readings, & labs.
    EVALUATION:
    1.
    Completion of laboratory exercises.
    2.
    A short (2-3 page) review paper that identifies an area of microcomputer
    application and reviews implementations within that curriculum area.
    3.
    A design document (no longer than 15 pages) that proposes an hypothetical
    piece of software, explains why it is needed, reviews its relationship
    to existing software and instructional theory, and explains the
    instructional features of the proposed software.
    4.
    Short tests related to lectures and readings.
    REQUIRED TEXTBOOK:
    Alessi, S.M., & Trollip, S.R. Computer-based instruction: Methods and
    development. Prentice-Hall, Inc. 1985.
    PREREQUISITES:
    Education 401/402 or equivalent.

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