This review focuses on studies that have investigated how microcomputer-based laboratories (MBL) affect science learning. MBL is defined as software which uses an electronic probe to collect information about a physical system and convert that information to a graphical system in approximately real time. (28 references) (LZ)

This article discusses the definition of hypermedia and the rationale behind its use, gives examples of students using hypermedia tools to construct artifacts, critiques research that examines the influence of creating hypermedia artifacts on students' learning, and outlines needed research on the effectiveness of using hypermedia. (27 references)…

Describes the Space Shuttle Commander software package, which utilizes the dynaturtle microworld to teach elementary and middle school students about Newton's laws of motion. Design considerations for computer-based microworlds that represent a compromise between the philosophies of constructivism and direct instruction are presented. (91…

The measurement of the affective (qualitative) influences of computer-assisted interactive video instruction on the learner and attendant enhancements for the overall learning experience are highlighted. Formal factors considered are interactivity via buttons and other event-oriented objects, hypertext, semantic memory, and successive…

Discusses myths underlying the curriculum, teacher knowledge of the curriculum, and constructivist perspectives of the curriculum that need to be considered if curriculum reform is to succeed. Goals, pedagogical features, a typical session, and field test evaluation results for the ScienceVision hypermedia system are described. Sample screen…

Based on a preliminary examination of over 1,200 article titles and abstracts and a subsequent review of selected articles, this booklet presents in highly abbreviated tabular format the most important research in the field of instructional microcomputing, including both computer assisted and computer managed instruction in elementary, secondary,…

Literature on computer-based instruction shows student performance improves with this method, although students spend less time studying. It is recommended that future research be designed to better detect the influence of computer-based instruction and that greater attention be given to methodological issues like test construction and research…

Two computer-oriented chemistry laboratory simulations are described. The material focuses on acid-base titration and an ideal gas simulation. (MP)

Beginning in the 1997-98 school year, WestEd staff, with the support of the Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL), worked intensively with a group of five Chamorro teachers from Rota Elementary School (Hawaii) to develop culturally responsive, standards-based science units. The larger goal was to develop Web-based case examples of…

Advantages and disadvantages of microcomputer use are noted. Computer managed and assisted instruction are discussed, followed by guidelines for software and microcomputer selection. Uses of CAI in the science curriculum are noted: simulation, modeling, gaming, drills, and tutorials. Finally, a project to disseminate instructional materials in…

Reviews computer assisted instructional (CAI) technology now available in large scale systems such as PLATO, and in videocassette-linked computer systems. Computer Managed Instruction (CMI) is described as a means of fitting instruction to the student's cognitive style. Discusses briefly cable TV, electronic newspapers, desk-top computers, and…

This book summarizes research on the various ways that students' cultural backgrounds and innate ways of learning affect academic achievement. It also offers descriptions and recommendations for improving science and mathematics education for minorities and women, based on successful programs, that take these differences into account. The focus is…

This literature review synthesizes the effects of technology-assisted instruction on the learning of students with mild and moderate disabilities for the 1988-95 period. Empirically based findings are discussed in the skill areas of reading, written expression, whole language, and mathematics, and in the content areas of social studies and…

Discussion of how visual analogies aid students' understanding of math and science focuses on new types of representations that use computers. Topics addressed include understanding and cognitive performance; the role of representations in understanding, including examples; evidence of instructional effectiveness of new representations; and…

Discussion of computer simulations used for exploratory learning focuses on the design of a hypothesis scratchpad that students can use for hypothesis generation and testing. An experiment with college chemistry students that compared three versions of the scratchpad is described, and the effect of the scratchpads on learning environments is…