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The evaluation of microcomputer programs: an area of debate
Author(s) -
Johnston V. M.
Publication year - 1987
Publication title -
journal of computer assisted learning
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.583
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1365-2729
pISSN - 0266-4909
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2729.1987.tb00307.x
Subject(s) - documentation , computer science , curriculum , software , educational software , microcomputer , software engineering , selection (genetic algorithm) , computer assisted instruction , quality (philosophy) , cognition , engineering management , knowledge management , psychology , multimedia , artificial intelligence , pedagogy , engineering , programming language , telecommunications , chip , philosophy , epistemology , neuroscience
The successful introduction of microcomputers into the curriculum is crucially dependent on software quality. Evaluations of programs must be based on educational rather than technological criteria. The available literature concerning software evaluation is reviewed, identified as classroom based studies, teacher training in software selection, issues in the design and development of programs as teaching material, and predictive evaluation through criterion checklists. Key areas of concern for software evaluation are identified as program description, external performance, structure of program, educational usefulness and documentation. Analysis of the knowledge and skills involved in program use, relating to both the cognitive and the affective, is suggested.