Computer use in psychology instruction: A survey of individual and institutional characteristics

This paper reports the results of a national survey of psychology faculty regarding their instructional use of computers. The survey was designed to answer three general questions: (1) In what ways and to what extent are psychologists using computers in their instruction? (2) What individual characteristics differentiate among levels of users? (3) What institutional characteristics appear to promote or inhibit the instructional use of computers? The results reveal that, although there appears to be extensive use of computers to support instruction, there are both institutional and individual characteristics that differentiate among levels and types of use. Several factors are identified that could lead to increased instructional use of computers, but their impact will largely be determined by the characteristics of the individual and the institution.     

Disability and the family: Current status and future developments

Recent years have witnessed increased interest in the effects a disability or chronic illness has on both the nuclear and the extended family. Personal accounts by family members and landmark legislation has stimulated interest in this area of endeavour. Reports of marital and family disharmony has fuelled research investigating the sources of stress and coping in families with a member who has a disability (Seligman, 1991).     

Using computers in introductory psychology

This paper describes our experience during the past 2 years in establishing a computer-based laboratory for introductory psychology. Discussion includes selection of hardware; physical design of the laboratory; locating, reviewing, and selecting courseware; development of supplementary materials; operation and management of the laboratory; and integration of the laboratory into the curriculum. These factors are examined from the point of view of the decisions made, the difficulties encountered, and the lessons learned.     

COMPsych: A computerized software information system

This paper describes the development of COMPsych, a computerized system to disseminate information about software dealing with ail aspects of psychology. The need for such a service, the various components, and the general operation of the system are described. The system will contain a catalog of commercial and public domain software, a library of freeware, a directory of computer users, and a bulletin board.     

Effects on fathers of children with down syndrome

This study investigated research evidence for eight assertions found in the literature about effects on fathers of children with disabilities. Eighty-seven fathers of children with Down syndrome completed questionnaire instruments designed to measure demographic variables, adaptation, stress, personality, social support and marital functioning. The results provided little support for most of the assertions. It is concluded that the existing literature provides a somewhat erroneous perspective of the experiences of such fathers. These findings reinforce the need for further research specifically with fathers of children with mental retardation.