At the other extreme are simulations and construction sets. Simulation applications give you the chance to run a nuclear power plant, study an erupting volcano, see what happens when you mix explosive chemicals, mingle with dinosaurs, and have all sorts of other learning experiences that would be impractical, impossible, dangerous, or too expensive in real life. Construction sets let you design and build a game, a machine, a song, a space station, or a movie out of tools provided by the application.

When computers first made their appearance in schools, they were used almost exclusively for drill and practice. As more computers are becoming available in the classroom, the vend is toward using the computer as a tool—for writing, calculating, and for keeping records and statistics (the way it's used in a business office). Instead of just using applications that teach grammar or spelling, English students are also using word processing applications to improve their writing. Instead of just using applications that teach algebra, calculus, or quadratic equations, math students are also learning to use formulas and functions in spreadsheet applications. Instead of just using applications that drill them on historical dates and the symbols on the periodic table, students in history And science classes are also learning to access information services and create their own data bases to help them research term papers.

Teachers who want to try their hand at programming can use a programming language designed especially for educators called PILOT (an acronym for Programmed Inquiry, Learning, Or Teaching). PILOT lets you design your own courseware, or CAI (computer-aided instruction) software. Apple's version of the PILOT programming language is called SuperPILOT.

Educational applications for adults fall into two categories: serious and not-so-serious. On the serious side are applications that promise to improve your negotiating, sales, management, or communication skills. On the not-so serious side are applications to help you improve your gardening, photography, and other leisure skills. More on these later in this chapter.

Education

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