Publication Date

1984

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Potts, Norman B.

Degree Name

M.A. (Master of Arts)

Legacy Department

Department of Theatre Arts

LCSH

College and school drama--Data processing; Microcomputers--Programming

Abstract

Computers can be a vital asset to Educational Theatre. At present, there is not a vast quantity of computer programming information available for application to educational theatre. There exists a need to develop applications of microcomputers for senior high school theatre programs. These applications can be developed by instructors and students. The purpose of this study is to: 1. Define and explain the various components of a personal computer. 2. Define the basic methods of operating a personal computer. 3. Outline the basic programming techniques for developing computer software for educational theatre. 4. Outline the methods for developing and evaluating educational software for application in a theatre classroom and co-curricular theatre activities. The basic components of a personal computer are the computer's memory and central processing unit, keyboard, video monitor, a disk drive or cassette recorder and the operating software. These basic components are common to most personal computers. An examination of each manufacturer can determine which best suits the needs of a theatre program. The method of communicating with a computer is called computer language. The most common language for personal computers is BASIC, a combination of short terms and symbols These terms, referred to as commands, are the method the operator uses to direct the computer to perform the intended function. Each operator can assemble a series of instructions, called a program that directs the computer through the phases of the specified function. Developing software for the theatre classroom requires establishing the software's goals; for example, which students the program is directed to and whether or not the goal can be better reached through traditional educational methods. Developing software for co-curricular theatre activities follows much the same format as for the classroom. The ideas behind the software should fit the needs of the individual theatre program. The only restrictions in the development of applications of computers are those created by the programmer coupled with the nature of the program. The only successful way to develop applications of computers is to research, explore and develop programs which fit the needs of each unique program.

Comments

Bibliography: pages 163-165.

Extent

vi, 165 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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