Introduces a new way of looking at concepts called Hazyspace that focuses on the messiness of real life and the indeterminancy of concepts as key features in understanding the conceptual domain of human beings. Although Hazyspace has general applicability to education, this discussion focuses on use of the term to describe how new users…

Reviews literature on conceptual conflict as facilitator of student learning and alternative conceptions, describes theories explaining occurence of alternative conceptions and conflict role in conceptual change, discusses a model of learning as conceptual change and its instructional implications, and presents results of studies which apply the…

The development and use of educational software for children with severe learning problems are described. The software deals with common conceptual, communicative, and problem-solving problems in this population. It is argued that appropriately structured computer-mediated interaction can result in development and expression of cognitive skills…

Discusses geometry and Dynamical Geometry Software (DGS). Analyses the way DGS-use influences traditional geometry. Highlights changes in the interactions between geometry, computers, and DGS and human users, focusing on changes in the teaching and learning of geometry. Concludes that DGS deeply changes geometry if it is taken as a human activity…

Examples of relatively novel computer software environments from the representation perspective are described. Even more novel approaches to curriculum reform to cultivate higher-order thinking skills are then discussed. (MNS)

The second in a series of three articles, some themes of an undercurrent of educational objectives that move beyond the evident content goals are outlined. The themes relate the computer software materials analyzed in Part I to the cognitive experiences that students should have in learning about subject matter. (MDH)

In this paper we analyze instructional materials supported by a Dynamic Geometry software, which were produced by teachers during an in-service training program. We discuss illustrative examples, as well as the outcomes of the critical discussions that took place during the presentations of these materials by the teachers. In order to analyze…

Defines cognitive computer tools as software programs that use the control capabilities of computers to amplify, extend, or enhance human cognition; suggests seven ways in which computers can aid learning; and describes the "Learning Tool," a software package for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer that is designed to aid learning of…

Many feel that an advantage to using computer simulations in science teaching is that they give students the opportunity to witness or perform experiments which might otherwise be too expensive, time consuming, or dangerous for them to do. Simulations attempt to mimic the kind of experience students get in a laboratory and help students learn new…