Block-based visual programming tools are widely used in elementary education. Nonetheless, these tools alone may not ensure the spontaneous and efficient acquisition of concepts and skills in computational thinking (CT). Using mind mapping as a form of scaffolding to facilitate the visualization of abstract thinking processes may enhance the…

Whereas hackathons are widespread within and outside academia and have been argued to be a valid pedagogical method for teaching interdisciplinarity, no detailed frameworks or methods are available for conceptualizing and organizing educational hackathons, i.e., hackathons dedicated to best achieving pedagogic objectives. This paper is dedicated…

Thirty years ago, when personal computers were first becoming available in homes and schools, a large group of primary school-age children were asked to share their attitudes about computers, their conceptions regarding how computers function, and their beliefs concerning computers' agency. The researchers wanted to gather baseline data regarding…

Shareable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) was proposed as a standard for sharable learning object packaging, delivering and sequencing. Several years later, Common Cartridge (CC) is proposed as an enhancement of SCORM offering more flexibility and addressing needs not originally envisioned, namely assessment and web 2.0 standards, content…

In this informational survey, the author briefly explores the needs of professional staff and administrators who serve students in alternative educational settings and special education and provides a listing of helpful Internet resources. Initially, the author provides general information concerning the current state of alternative education…

A pedagogical model of hypertext authoring is presented. The model encourages self-regulated, constructive thinking to create knowledge by manipulating corresponding screen representations. One application of the design-oriented model is described, with screen illustrations. (MSE)

Asserts that involving students in learning a small amount of programming language can enable them to learn the important concepts of electronic information systems. Describes a three-week unit in which arts and humanities undergraduate students use the authoring language, PILOT. (CFR)

Illustrates the ease with which programs occupying only a single command line of a graphics calculator can be constructed. (MKR)

Improving learning effectiveness has always been a constant challenge in software education and training. One of the primary tasks educators face is to motivate learners to perform to their best abilities. Using computer games is one means to encourage learners to learn (Klawe, 1994). When games are used in general education, they could enhance…

Because of the diversity of clients served by speech-language pathologists and audiologists, available commercial software may not meet all needs. Authoring programs allow the clinician to design software that can be customized for individual clients. This article describes an authoring program called HyperCard and its use in preparing hypermedia…

Explains the cause of the Year 2000 (Y2K) problem for computers, how it manifests itself, and what can be done to fix it. Attention is given to both microcomputers and more powerful machines. (MSE)

Outlines reasons why computer programming should be taught to geographers. These include experience using macro (scripting) languages and sophisticated visualization software, and developing a deeper understanding of general hardware and software capabilities. Discusses the distinct advantages and few disadvantages of the programming language…

Uses vectors and programming with graphing calculators to analyze a ride in an amusement park (the "Scrambler") that has three long arms that revolve horizontally around a central post, at the end of which hang seats revolving in circles. (ASK)

As a college alumni organization designs a World Wide Web site for communication, it should consider why it is creating the site; features that will appeal to its audience; the effort it will take to keep information timely; adding to the site's value by offering useful, interesting information not available anywhere else; and touring other sites…

Presents ideas for purposeful statistical investigations based on data from "TV Guide" that involve simulations using a spreadsheet. (MKR)