A computer system contains and displays a cartoon-like story with a plurality of displayed components (such as cartoon characters, play items, etc.) recognizable by a preschool student on a first portion of the display screen along with an accompanying voice message on the speaker. Written instructions for teachers to follow in a personal one-to-one interaction with one or more students are displayed on a second portion of the display screen. For some activities, the student may actually respond using the computer such as by touching a touch screen or using a mouse to select one of the displayed components in response to a request to select a displayed component having a predetermined aspect. For other activities the teacher enters the response of the student as observed by the teacher. When one or more correct responses are entered by the student or teacher, achievement of a goal can automatically be entered into the educational management system.