This report begins by discussing the implications of a constructivist epistemology for instructional design and development, as well as drawbacks of the content database in instruction, the lack of special tools to help the learner actively construct knowledge, and emphasis on learning environments based on individual learning. The whole learning…

Two uses of computers for teaching in distance education are compared and contrasted: systems based on structured, pre-programmed learning materials, or computer-assisted learning, where the learner communicates as if with the computer; and systems based on the communications functions of computers, or computer-mediated communications systems…

Arguing that electronic networking provides a medium which is qualitatively superior to the traditional classroom for conducting certain types of problem solving exercises, this paper details the Water Problem Solving Project, which was conducted on the InterCultural Learning Network in 1985 and 1986 with students from the United States, Mexico,…

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.…

Discussion of the use of technology for teaching and learning science focuses on studies that explored trends in teaching science with technology. Highlights include projects using telecommunications through computer networks; constructivist theory and the use of hypermedia; and computer-supported collaborative learning. Implications for teachers…

Considers the need for staff training in virtual libraries. Highlights include instruction and training, including in-house training, vendor contracts, and self-paced instruction; documentation; current awareness via professional literature, electronic discussions, bibliographies, and conferences; information filtering through selective…

This paper examines educational applications of computer-based communications to identify unique tools for learning provided by this medium and to identify key features of successful text-based computer mediated communications (CMC) projects. A review of CMC programs provides guidelines for designing effective teacher training programs in CMC.…

Video Information Systems (VIS) is fiber optics network that connects campus classrooms to VIS central library. Remotely controlled by instructors, VIS incorporates use of number of audiovisual materials and can be used in cross-cultural training in which visual aids assist in showing cultural differences. VIS assists in education of future…

Describes how to create a school or district model for an Internet staff development training program for integrating information access skills into the school curriculum. Highlights include instructional design; facility development, including computer workstations; hands-on workshops that include electronic mail, gopher, and downloading;…

Discusses instructional systems and information retrieval systems and highlights the growing role of retrieval systems in learning. Topics discussed include cognitive psychology; degree of learner control; interaction with the systems; technological trends, including storage capacity, integrated media, and interlinked systems; hypermedia; and…

Examines educational research conducted in various settings that has adopted network learning approaches. Two categories of network learning are described--collaborative network learning and information network access--and approaches and methods used in studying network learning are discussed, including the design of network learning, network…

Pedagogy embodies the beliefs one holds about students, about the various attributes of media technologies, and about the essential qualities of the content at hand. Teachers make decisions based on the interactions of these beliefs. Therefore, it is imperative to begin the process of designing and contemplating instruction with a consideration of…