Even though engineering outreach to K-12 schools initially seemed to be a simple undertaking, it proved to require complex design solutions related to a variety of issues. The purpose of this design case is to tell the story of our National Science Foundation (NSF) supported engineering outreach project, that took place between the years of…

Good learning experiences ask students to investigate and make sense of the world. While there are many ways to do this, K-12 curriculum has traditionally skewed toward reading and writing to interpret and express students' sense-making. But there is another way. Infographics represent data and ideas visually, in pictures, engaging more parts of…

This paper aims to address the need of increasing student achievement in mathematics using a visual programming language such as Scratch. This visual programming language facilitates creating an environment where students in K-12 education can develop mathematical simulations while learning a visual programming language at the same time.…

Describes process of selecting digital imaging software that is user-friendly and needs-appropriate. Includes a table listing the names, prices, and contact information (websites and 800 numbers) of nine digital software packages, including a summary of their major features. (PKP)

Discusses the features of animation software packages, reviewing eight commercially available programs. Information provided for each program includes name, publisher, current computer(s) required, cost, documentation, input device, import/export capabilities, printing possibilities, what users can originate, types of image manipulation possible,…

Discusses several computer languages (Atari Pilot and different versions of LOGO) supporting the turtle graphics mode. Also discusses educational applications and use of LOGO by the handicapped. (JN)

Reviews desirable features that current word processing programs have that can be used to enhance writing instruction. Provides a list of programs in three categories: (1) idea processors; (2) enhanced word processors; and (3) word processors with graphics capabilities. Each entry includes publisher, hardware compatibility, current price, and…

Discusses various aspects, features, and uses of the Logo programing language. A comparison (in chart format) of several Logo languages is also included, providing comments on the language as well as producer, current price, number of sprites and turtles, computer needed, and whether debugging aids and list operations are included. (JN)

Discusses activities for counting using FOR/NEXT commands, finding number of letters in words using LOGO, generating random numbers on the TRS-80 (program listing included), and examining mistaken predictions. Includes the article "Animating Graphics in BASIC" by Ellen Joslin (program listing included). (JN)

Discusses a computer program which converts TRS-80 programs into Applesoft Basic. Although the complete program is listed, a disk containing the binary files necessary for the conversions is available (current cost $10.00) from the author. (Author/JN)

B. F. Skinner provides advice for educators on several issues related to computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Some pitfalls of programed instruction in the 1960s which CAI may also face today, aversive control, courseware design, and use of computer graphics are among the areas explored. (JN)

Discusses what can be done with a LOGO turtle robot, how it is different from doing LOGO with the computer-screen turtle, and the educational value of the device. Sample programs are provided, including one in which the robot turtle can be commanded to react to meeting an obstacle. (JN)

Provides the rationale for considering communication in a graphic domain and suggests a specific goal for designing work stations which provide graphic capabilities in educational settings. The central element of this recommendation is the "pictorial conversation", a highly interactive exchange that includes pictures as the central elements.…

Offers and discusses three suggestions to capitalize on two developments related to system dynamics modeling and simulation. These developments are a junior/senior high textbook called "Introduction to Computer Simulation" and Micro-DYNAMO, a computer simulation language for microcomputers. (Author/JN)

Computer video games are an emerging instructional medium offering strong degrees of cognitive efficiencies for experiential learning, team building, and greater understanding of abstract concepts. As with other new media adopted for use by instructional technologists for pedagogical purposes, barriers to classroom implementation have manifested…