Researchers of gender differences in computer-related behaviors have reported a confusing picture. When asked which sex is more positive toward computers, more apt at using computers, and more likely to use a computer, one would be best advised to answer "it depends." It depends on what attitudes you are measuring, what skills you are…

This report describes phase 1 of a projected 2-phase project designed to investigate the feasibility of developing an interactive videodisc to teach math and science concepts to preschool handicapped children. A videodisc system is proposed that would allow children to manipulate real-world objects in order to acquire concrete knowledge about…

This paper aims to clarify and describe the process of change in learners' conceptual understanding of natural phenomena. It begins by reviewing the existing literature on models of conceptual change and on children's conceptions in a number of selected topic areas. Strategies for exploring and developing children's ideas in these areas have also…

Constituting an updated treatment of the use of computers for reading instruction, this book focuses on recent developments in computer assisted instruction and its classroom implications. The ten chapters cover the following topics: (1) the development of digital computers and their programs, (2) college and university centers in computer based…

This paper synthesizes some of the many ideas and issues pertaining to research on the development of writing skills, and on creating new technologies for writing. Such technologies include computer-based production tools, videodiscs, and other mass storage technologies with potential for knowledge storing and structuring. The discussion also…

This composite report provides summaries of presentations by 10 experts at the 23rd Annual Clinic on Library Applications of Data Processing in April 1986 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. All were concerned with the design of online systems to make them easier for library patrons to use. (Author/CDD)

Reviews current thinking on microcomputer hardware and software selection; outlines several ways in which microcomputers may be used in media centers (inventory, circulation, telecomputing, word processing, decision making, computing literacy, recreation); and identifies some commercially available software which fulfills the need of specified…

The designing of multimedia chemistry courseware is a complex and challenging task for many instructional developers and writers especially in the initial stage of the prototype to be developed. As such, this paper provides insights gained into some practical design considerations in developing a multimedia courseware in chemical education at…

This paper surveys the literature on ways to use Web-based or Internet instruction more effectively and assesses some trends associated with the methods. Highlights include: changes in university demographics; elements of a process of planning and operating educational programs for adult students; major faculty issues that have to be addressed in…

Themes during the 1990s included the bootstrapping effects between oral and literate language, importance of supporting emergent literacy, parallels between oral language impairment and academic failure, and challenges in facilitating language learning. This article addresses questions posed in Part I related to use of computer technology for…

Report on a peer-reviewed, interactive electronic journal focuses on stages of its development; features of two available access points--an ASCII interface called EPS (Electronic Publishing Service) and a graphical interface called Guidon; advantages of Guidon access over simple electronic file transfer; and planned improvements. (Contains five…

Review identifies concerns and criticisms as well as research findings about young children's use of computers. Review is organized in terms of the child's needs in all developmental areas--physical, social-emotional, cognitive, and language--and implications of these needs for planning. Findings include support for enhanced cognitive development,…

Discusses the concept of electronic workstations and describes four different types: (1) the academic workstation; (2) the reference workstation (i.e., for end users); (3) the information specialist workstation; and (4) the workstation for management information. The creation of a new integrated information center (ICC) is also described. (11…

Discussion of graphical user interfaces for online public access catalogs (OPACs) covers the history of OPACs; OPAC front-end design, including examples from Indiana University and the University of Illinois; and planning and implementation of a user interface. (10 references) (EA)

Description of high density data storage (HDDS) devices focuses on CD-ROMs and explores their impact on libraries, publishing, education, and library communications. Highlights include costs; technical standards; reading devices; authoring systems; robotics; the influence of new technology on the role of libraries; and royalty and copyright issues…