Synthesizes information that is available on software evaluation and provides a software evaluation checklist to help educators examine software based on linguistic and pedagogical criteria. The checklist allows educators to compare and contrast software products, enabling them to select software that is best suited to their classrooms.…

Discusses issues involved in the evaluation of hypertext computer software, including implementation considerations, documentation and packaging, control of instruction by learners, navigation aids for readers, linking mechanisms in hypertext applications, and curriculum development and classroom management considerations. A checklist summarizing…

Highlights the major differences between software training and reference materials, examines the key features that should be present in both if they are to be effective, and presents a checklist for use in evaluating the documentation that accompanies microcomputer software. (MBR)

Suggests educators who are not yet computer literate choose an alternative focus by learning to evaluate software and determine its potential for use in specific educational settings. Questions which should be asked when reviewing software on appropriate use, content, and characteristics are presented, along with a software evaluation checklist…

Discusses methods that may be applied to the evaluation of hypermedia, based on six models described by Lawton. Techniques described include observation, self-report measures, interviews, automated measures, psychometric tests, checklists and criterion-based techniques, process models, Experimentally Measuring Usability (EMU), and a naturalistic…

Describes tools and techniques that can be used to increase creativity in libraries. Highlights include idea files; brainstorming, in groups or as individuals; mind mapping; checklists; idea processing software; new age techniques such as brain integration and flotation tanks; and an annotated bibliography of six books on idea techniques. (LRW)

Discusses evaluation criteria for selecting authoring tools, including system complexity and language, cost, copy protection, ease of learning and use, graphics, sound, and peripheral interfacing capabilities, support documentation, overall performance, tutorials, instructional design and management features, and product support. A…

"Looking for a Supplier? Use the E-Learning Scorecard" (Darin Hartley) discusses evaluating and selecting vendors. "Top Ten E-Learning Myths" is an interview with John V. Moran, president of a learning technologies company. "A Year in the Life of an E-Learning Project" (John Redmon, Jennifer J. Salopek) describes how to develop an electronic…

Describes a teaching technique that uses word processing software to automate the process of providing feedback about psychology assignments in a microcomputer-based laboratory course. Automation of the feedback process is explained, benefits to students and instructors are discussed, and student reactions are reported. (six references) (LRW)

This digest discusses several aspects of electronic networking, including network functions, implementation, and applications in education. Electronic networking is defined as including the four basic services of electronic mail (E-mail), electronic "bulletin boards," teleconferencing, and online databases, and an overview of these four…

Discusses microcomputer systems and networks and presents some economic considerations for their use in education. Highlights include the design of computer assisted instruction (CAI); the development of appropriate software; organization of lesson material; authoring systems and languages; and a checklist for designing or installing a CAI system.…