| Abstract: | Presents a conceptual analysis of four sets of research issues raised by the rapid intrusion of microcomputers into the lives of children. The first involves use of the computer as a vehicle for studying the determinants of intrinsic motivation. The second involves the study of the relationships between intrinsic motivation and instructional effectiveness in educational software. The third involves the empirical examination of contrasting philosophies of instruction embodied in different current approaches to the design of computer-based educational programs. The final set of issues concerns the effects of the widespread introduction of the computer on social equality, the process of social development, and the goals of formal education. It is argued that these issues should be examined before this technology becomes part of daily life. (99 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
