This book highlights the importance of design in computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) by proposing data-driven design and assessment. It addresses data-driven design, which focuses on the processing of data and on improving design quality based on analysis results, in three main sections. The first section explains how to design…

Discusses the use of computers for nine different tasks in biological education: information retrieval, data accumulation, data analysis, simulation and systems analysis, decision making, experimental control, course review, computer-managed instruction, and word processing. (PEB)

Describes technique designed to aid students in introductory, quantitative, college level political science courses interpret simple, bivariate tables. Technique involves simulation of a computer sort. Evaluation of technique indicates that once students have participated in a tangible experience akin to a computer operation, they are better able…

The use of modern technology in education has reached a turning point. Equipment found in schools is increasing, and computer-assisted instruction has been shown to achieve positive results. Learning to use computer utilities and databases should be given high priority. (MD)

This description of the use of "probeware," i.e., hardware which connects to a microcomputer and works with the software to measure factors such as temperature, light, or motion in science laboratory experiments, uses as an example an experiment which would involve the measurement of pendulum motion using the "Precision Timer…

Discussion of computer input devices focuses on the keyboard, mouse, and touchscreen. Related research is reviewed concerning user preference and performance; advantages and disadvantages of each device are described; guidelines for selection are discussed; and suggestions for future research are offered. (19 references) (LRW)

Presents ideas to help teachers make one-computer classrooms work. Suggestions include making sure the teacher masters the computer, managing computer time, using keyboarding strategies (such as photocopied keyboards for practice), and using time-saving techniques (e.g., previewing programs, pooling resources, and treating computers with care).…

Describes a course which uses integrated electronic spreadsheets for computer assisted instruction in teaching multiple regression analysis. The process of implementing the method is explained, tips on worksheet arrangement are given, and advantages of using electronic spreadsheets are delineated. (Author/MBR)

While most microeconomics curriculums contain no reference to the use of microcomputers, spreadsheet packages adapt well to microeconomics courses. This presentation examines the following topics in the context of a microeconomics course: (1) The Microcomputer Spreadsheet Package--LOTUS; (2) The Spreadsheet Anatomy--cells, commands, menus; (3)…

The steps of policy analysis are similar to those of any research project; however, they focus on problems, issues, and needs. Using the introduction of microcomputers in a school district as an example, these steps are explained. (MLF)

Presents a series of data sets and answers that can be used to do an inhouse evaluation of common procedures in statistical software programs that are designed for use on microcomputers. Highlights include procedures for t-test, analysis of variance, regression, correlation, and categorical data analysis. (14 references) (LRW)

Reviews research on uses of computer sound and suggests how sound might be used effectively by instructional and interface designers. Topics include principles of interface design; the perception of sound; earcons, both symbolic and iconic; sound in data analysis; sound in virtual environments; and guidelines for using sound. (70 references) (LRW)

This handbook was written to enable elementary school educators to conduct formative evaluations of their computer integrated instruction (CII) programs in minimum time. CII is defined as the use of computer software, such as word processing, database, and graphics programs, to help students solve problems or work more productively. The first…

This article discusses the advantages of multimedia materials as reference tools. Multimedia reference CD-ROMs contain huge amounts of information, and they present it in a very attractive way that motivates students to learn. The article provides an annotated list of subject-specific CD-ROMs, including ordering information. (SM)

Introduces educators to inexpensive, commercially-available CD-ROM software that combines speech, text, graphics, sound, video, animation, and special effects that may be incorporated into classroom activities for both normally developing and language learning disabled children. Discusses three types of multimedia CD-ROM products: (1) virtual…