Date of Award

1984

Type

Thesis

Major

Specialist in Education

Degree Type

Special Degree in Education

Department

Teacher Education

First Advisor

Dr. James Brewbaker

Second Advisor

Dr. Carolyn Cartledge

Third Advisor

Dr. Harold Whitman

Abstract

This project developed and field tested computer programs in language arts for use in a rural school system. A review of the literature compared the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction(CAI) in various academic areas, specifically focusing on the English curriculum. Commercially available computer programs from Texas Instruments were reviewed for content and format. Two computer programs were then developed on a TRS-80 color computer; the programs were designed specifically to assist in remedial instruction in the intermediate grades. Two reading skills were reviewed: the concepts of literal versus figurative language and fact versus opinion. The graphics portion of a commercial computer math program was adapted into both programs, creating a "computer teacher." A pilot test of the programs was conducted during a summer school session in a rural school system. Eight remedial students in grades four, six, and seven were instructed and then tested by the computer. Four of the students worked with the fact/opinion program, and four worked with the literal/figurative program. Each student then assessed the program by filling out a prepared questionnaire. Results of the student assessment suggest that the programs were too difficult for the remedial fourth grade students; the programs were of average difficulty for the sixth and seventh grade students. All students reported that the programs helped them learn the lesson. The results of this assessment cannot be generalized due to the limited size of the sample.

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