The two components of this document are: (1) a brief position paper; and (2) a related but independent bibliography of references on using computers in reading/writing instruction. The paper presents six recommendations for the intelligent use of computers in the teaching of reading and composition, discussing the guidelines of the International…

Discusses three different types of databases: utility database programs, add-on databases, and stand-alone databases. Describes how databases motivate students' reading and writing. (MM)

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)…

Presents six steps of data warehouse development that result in valuable, long-term reporting solutions, discussing how to choose the right reporting vehicle. The six steps are: defining one's needs; mapping the source for each element; extracting the data; cleaning and verifying the data; moving the data into a relational database; and developing…

Mindtools are computer applications that, when used by learners to represent what they know, engage them in critical thinking. This article discusses computers as semantic organization (databases and semantic networking), dynamic modeling (spreadsheets, expert systems, systems modeling, microworlds), information interpretation, knowledge…

This article discusses how to use technology to collect, store, sort, and reformat assessment data on the school improvement process, explaining the use of desktop computers with databases and the use of portable devices in the assessment process. (SM)

Describes how to use e-mail, file transfer protocol, and gophers in the conduct of educational research. Special attention is paid to the lists and to the gopher of the American Educational Research Association. Educational researchers are using the Internet in a variety of ways. (SLD)

This practitioner file is designed to provide information for adult, career, and vocational educators who have little or no experience using the Internet. Discussed first are the history of the Internet's development and its content and scope. Ways of obtaining an Internet connection are described. Next, annotated descriptions of eight sources of…

Discusses the concept of distance educators sending a mass distribution of messages to students via electronic mail. The concept uses course information databases to customize and generate message content. Describes steps of using off-the-shelf commercial software to process course data and send it to course participants by electronic mail via the…

Details the impact of online databases, PROQUEST in particular, on composition students' research. Indicates a need for more instruction that addresses new literacies emerging from the current transitional age of electronic and print cultures. Presents new evaluative methods for online documents that utilize knowledge of online genres, information…

A project was conducted to develop the methods, procedures, standards, and processes to enable adult basic and literacy education programs funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Bureau of Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) to submit their student and staff data via computer disk. During the project, the Center for…

Discusses 10 ways that middle-school social-studies teachers can transform their teaching through computer-based technology. Emphasizes general concepts related to middle-school social studies, such as databases, e-mail, simulations, and the web. (SR)

Presents four computer applications that can complement the work of peer helper trainers and peer helpers themselves. The applications include multimedia presentations, databases, desktop publishing, and the Internet. The article describes each application and also discusses the use of electronic mail, KeyPals, Listserv, and the World Wide Web to…

General information utilities and specialized networks, such as PoliNet, provide educators and researchers in public administration and allied fields with a diversity of new tools which include: (1) bibliographic searching; (2) international teleconferencing; (3) electronic news clipping services; (4) electronic mail; and (5) free public domain…

Reviews the need for and appropriate use of individual assessment in physical education and explains how computerized data management can combat the logistical difficulties of using the data. Describes project COPE (Computer Organized Physical Education), a computerized data management system for improving recordkeeping, planning, and…