Low-Cost Microtechnology Learning Aids in the Classroom. Discussion Paper 01/80.

This study investigates the degree to which relatively low-cost microtechnology devices, e.g., electronic games and calculators, might be considered as aids to learning in the classroom situation. A brief discussion includes an overview of the research that has been done on the use of calculators as learning devices and examples of criticisms of calculator games as learning aids. A 293-item bibliography is provided, as well as a list of 69 low-cost microtechnology devices, including the trade name, manufacturer, supplier, retail price, and power requirements for each. Of these, three were removed because they were not aids, 28 were rejected because they had no perceived educational value, four were rejected because they had insufficient educational value to be considered for use in the schools, six were rejected because better devices to do the same task were available, and 22 were rejected because they were not available in Vancouver. DATAMAN, Sears 2001 Calculator, TI-30 Calculator, Spelling B, Speak and Spell, and Quiz Wiz, were selected as demonstrating some potential educational value. These six devices are listed with brief descriptions of their functions and the rejected devices are listed separately with the reason for rejection. (CHC)