Argues that modern instructional theory and practice and recent technological advances can be used to build a useful course syllabus. Outlines how "user-friendly" documentation can improve instructional effectiveness and increase student involvement and interest in the course. (MM)

Describes the development of a microcomputer writing lab designed for college freshmen English students. Argues that students in the lab write more and take more pride in their finished products. (RS)

Describes how 7th graders learning Spanish at one New York school corresponded with students in Latin America via the Internet to personalize their language-learning experience. Students researched the chosen countries and exchanged electronic mail in Spanish with Latin American students. Guidelines are presented for replicating such a project.…

Developmental changes in computer training in response to new software and services make the problems of training computer novices more complicated. This paper focuses on methods for training the "haves" and "have nots." The "haves" are those who have had computer technology training in a previous era. The "have nots" have Internet access but no…

This article describes Technology Option for At-Risk Readers (TOARR), a program that uses technology to help students with reading difficulties. The program uses specialized reading software plus a host of motivating reading activities to encourage reading. Steps in developing the TOARR needs assessment and implementing the program are discussed.…

This book presents a collection of tips focused around six themes. In "Teaching Techniques," teachers share ways in which they have increased their effectiveness and enhanced their interaction with students. "Content" provides methods of delivering art, science, reading, and other subjects in ways that will inspire and motivate…

Discusses the need to create a learning environment in the computer lab that encourages students to "dabble." Benefits include increased student motivation, help for special needs students, and a decrease in truancy. Presents answers to possible objections to this form of student-directed learning and provides tips for running a lab efficiently.…

When students become actively involved in technology productions they develop learning skills, communication skills, and visual analysis skills, all of which are applied to real-life learning within the classroom curriculum. Students participate in all stages of the production projects, which proves to be motivating for the students and allows the…

High school administrators are concerned about the contribution of student absenteeism to poor academic performance and the likelihood of dropping out. Administrators are faced with the difficult task of deciding which incentives will make regular school attendance more meaningful to students, and which penalties may make truancy and class cutting…

Based on conclusions from more than 30 years of research linking parental involvement and higher student achievement, this booklet offers 106 ways parents and others can become more involved in children's education. The ideas are grouped according to the following categories: (1) learning begins at home; (2) making sure your child starts school…

The broad objectives of the Model Technology Schools project were to study the impact of technology on schools and student learning; to develop models for using educational technology as a tool for school management and classroom teaching; and to disseminate these models for use in public schools throughout the state. Research involved site visits…

This guide is designed to share the experiences of 25 British further education colleges and adult education services that have developed demonstrably successful strategies to improve student retention. An introduction discusses the report's background, content, and format. The format mixes thematic presentation with mini-case studies and…