There is a limited literature on pre-school children's experiences with "digital technologies" at home and little discussion of the ways in which children harness these technologies for their own purposes. This paper discusses findings drawn from three studies that investigated the role of "domestic technologies" and…

In classrooms, it is not unusual to see students who struggle to produce legible print. In actuality, many students have difficulty with the physical printing and writing processes ("handwriting")--difficulty that is significant enough to interfere with their academic performance. Some students grow out of this, and some, with extra practice,…

The purpose of this study was to assess the educators' perspectives on the introduction of computer technology in the early childhood education environment. Fifty early childhood educators completed a survey and participated in focus groups. Parallels existed between the individually completed survey data and the focus group discussions. The…

Presents ways that teachers can gain free or low-cost access to the international electronic network known as the Internet. Discusses activities in British Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Newfoundland, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virginia. (MKR)

Introduces a section that focuses on educational technology, including classroom-friendly hardware, software, and peripherals that can help support teaching and enhance student learning. This section also offers information from teachers about technology products that they find indispensable. (SM)

Critiques current examples of computerized grammar and style checkers. Examines the relative strengths and weaknesses of each program. Concludes that programs are not an adequate substitute for knowing the applicable rule of English. (RW)

Many school business officials have turned to computer equipment leasing. A lease arrangement permits administrators to stretch annual budgets, to appropriate funds, and to easily upgrade or change equipment. Another alternative to high-cost computer purchase is to buy or lease used equipment. (MLF)

Linking individual computers is an economical way to multiply their power and effectiveness. Guidelines for those considering networking as well as guidelines to follow during a network assessment are listed. (SI)

Provides helpful tips regarding classroom use of computers in a cooperative-learning environment. Comments on student computer ratio, interdependence, individual accountability, heterogeneous grouping, shared responsibility, and good working relationships. (ZWH)

This issue of "Focus" includes nine essays addressing various concerns related to curriculum, theory, research, teaching strategies, student and faculty issues, and other matters pertinent to the Utah community colleges. The issue contains: (1) "Comment: Making Quality 'Job One' in the Community College," by Don A. Carpenter;…

The first of three parts of this booklet, which assumes no previous knowledge of computers or programming, explains what computers are and briefly describes the components of a computer system. The second section examines the different ways in which the computer can be used in higher education, including its use: (1) as a "super calculator"; (2)…

Describes the creation of a comprehensive, research-based model of concepts and practices to guide planning and implementation of micro- and mini-computer systems in school districts. The model's strategic planning activities are summarized, along with general observations and future implications of the research involved. (MLH)

Provides advice to faculty advisers of student organizations on understanding the learning styles, needs, cultures, and strengths of today's "electronic learners." Advisers need to understand technology-related learning patterns and become technologically literate to work with college students. (MDM)

Development software has been on the market for 15 to 20 years. Vendors offer outstanding software, but the software must be right for the environment and needs of each office. Software should be able to be used by the entire staff including the manager, not just the technical staff. (MLW)

Florida Atlantic University established a computer user services department separate from administrative computing, academic computing, and the management information system to provide user support independent of the specific computer application. The challenges encountered and their solutions are outlined, and recommendations are made for other…