The term Adaptive E-learning System (AES) refers to the set of techniques and approaches that are combined together to offer online courses to the learners with the aim of providing customized resources and interfaces. Most of these systems focus on adaptive contents which are generated to the learners without considering the learning styles of…

Learning has transcended into a life-long endeavor in the information age. It is no longer restricted to confines of formal classrooms. Consequently, a student is not restricted to traditional learning resources like teachers, textbooks or printed content. Digital resources available on the Internet form a very significant component of…

This article presents KnowledgePuzzle, a browsing tool for knowledge construction from the web. It aims to adapt the structure of web content to the learner's information needs regardless of how the web content is originally delivered. Learners are provided with a meta-cognitive space (e.g., a concept mapping tool) that enables them to plan…

This paper provides guidelines for designing metacognitive maps in web-based learning environments. A metacognitive map is a visual interface-based tool that supports metacognition throughout the entire learning process. Inspired by the four key metacognitive skills of planning, monitoring, evaluating, and revising, the metacognitive map is…

Explains the development of a classification system for different types of icons to determine which icons proved difficult for elementary school students to read. Considers pictorial, textual, and combination icons from two CD-ROM programs, and concludes that assumptions about pictorial navigation icons and benefits of pop-up labels are probably…

Describes confluent presentation strategy (CPS) (i.e., a philosophy for developing student-centered, user/computer interfaces) and discusses its use to minimize student disorientation when using interactive computer-based training programs. Instructional design for computer interfaces and navigation are discussed, and an example of a CD-ROM that…

Reviews problems with educational software and presents a framework for educational software design, focusing on topic selection, knowledge presentation (simplicity, presentation, program control, structure versus exploration, navigation), knowledge construction (multiple choice, tasks, case studies) and evaluation. (PEN)

Describes wearable computers, or information and communication technology devices that are designed to be mobile. Discusses how such technologies can enhance computer-mediated communications, focusing on collaborative working for learning. Describes an experimental system, MetaPark, which explores communications, data retrieval and recording, and…

Describes the Online Academy that developed online instructional modules in reading, positive behavior support, and technology across the curriculum for preservice teacher education programs at the University of Kansas. Focuses on the formative evaluation processes that were employed in creating the instructional design, usability, and…

Discusses computer programs used to teach: engineers to analyze structural stress and strain; salesmen to sell; managers to write memos; musicians to compose; and pilots to use navigational instruments. A list of software on noncomputer subjects is provided; each entry includes title, supplier, format, current price, and computer needed. (JN)

Hypertext is well-suited for educational applications where open learning and knowledge exploration is desired. In such applications, principles of good hypertext interface design should be employed to avoid navigational problems so as to maximize learning. Interface design, however, may also directly enhance acquisition of a particular knowledge…

Multi-user Object Oriented Internet activities (MOOs) permit real time interaction in a text-based virtual reality via the Internet. This article explains EduMOOs (educational MOOs) and provides brief descriptions, World Wide Web addresses, and telnet addresses for selected EduMOOs. Instructions for connecting to a MOO and a list of related Web…

Addresses problems with the integration of the Internet into French schools. Topics include network technology; computer-student ratios in elementary, middle, and secondary schools; multimedia characteristics of the Internet; international dimensions; navigation methods; diversity of applications; and the need for teacher education. (LRW)

This paper presents a CD-ROM computer tutorial titled "Higher Mathematics," that contains 17 educational mathematical programs and is intended for use in Russian university engineering education. The first section introduces the courseware climate in Russia and outlines problems with commercially available universal mathematical…

Presents a matrix that can serve as a tool for designing the information architecture of a Web portal in a logical and systematic manner. Highlights include interfaces; metaphors; navigation; interaction; information retrieval; and an example of a children's Web portal to provide access to museum information. (Author/LRW)