Research in education suggests that computer games can serve as powerful learning environments, however, teachers perceive many obstacles to using games as teaching tools. In this study, we examine three science teachers' implementation and perceptions of a curriculum unit incorporating the game, Mission Biotech (MBt) and a set of supporting…

Describes the rewards and difficulties encountered when an educator/administrator uses ApplePILOT to develop "higher-order" instructional software tailored to meet the needs of an existing history curriculum. Reports research results showing significant learning gains for the seventh graders who participated in the post-development…

Discusses Seymour Papert's ideas on learning LOGO, a computer programing language which creates a context for learning. Claims that LOGO has been unfairly judged and that criticisms are rooted in misunderstanding. Argues that curriculum research in LOGO should use a multidisciplinary, multimethod approach. Concludes that the true potential of LOGO…

This study examined the pedagogy of three online teacher professional development (oTPD) modules. Evidence of design features oriented to the "how people learn" framework was the primary research objective. An analytic framework was devised to code knowledge types, levels of cognitive demand, levels of interaction, and sensory details in the…

Discusses the trends in education toward computer equipment and computer assisted learning in England. Surveys some of the attitudes of educators and students toward home-based, computer-aided learning, hardware and software. Anticipates future developments in technology for education. (CW)

New Zealand school education through the middle years appears to be in crisis. Sutton (2000) reports that students in the age range from 13-15 years (Years 9 and 10 of schooling) experience the crisis most poignantly. Their teachers increasingly say children in this age range are difficult to motivate, that they present them with their greatest…