Introductory chemistry students often have difficulty visualizing the 3-dimensional shapes of the hydrogenic electron orbitals without the aid of physical 3D models. Unfortunately, commercially available models can be quite expensive. 3D printing offers a solution for producing models of hydrogenic orbitals. 3D printing technology is widely…

To solve the challenge of learning VSEPR molecules in three dimensions, a high school student leverages her passion for 3D computer animation to develop a creative solution. This article outlines the process and story behind the creation of her unique video. (Contains 1 figure.)

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…

In this article, the author describes a culmination activity for a technology unit wherein students would have to create a work of art on the computer that was as artistic as any painting done using oils or acrylics. The painting lesson was based on the song and book, "America the Beautiful," by Katharine Lee Bates and illustrated by Neil Waldman.

Previous work applying cognitive load theory has demonstrated the effect of various text/graphic/narration relations on learning using multimedia material. Other work has looked at how the degree of integration between the text and graphics influences their use. This study set out to look at how the degree of integration between text and graphics…

For hundreds of years verbal messages such as lectures and printed lessons have been the primary means of explaining ideas to learners. Although verbal learning offers a powerful tool, this book explores ways of going beyond the purely verbal. Recent advances in graphics technology and information technology have prompted new efforts to understand…

Matched-guise experiments have passed their 40th year as a powerful attitudinal research tool, and they are becoming more relevant and useful as technology is applied to language research. Combining the specificity of conversation analysis with the generalizability of social psychology research, technological innovations allow the measurement of…

Discusses graphic design and reviews its development from analog processes to a digital tool with the use of computers. Topics include graphical user interfaces; the need for visual communication concepts; transmedia as opposed to repurposing; and graphic design instruction in higher education. (LRW)

Educational technology is seldom used to facilitate more active student learning in the classroom. Instructors who have mastered PowerPoint, however, could just as easily learn to create simple pieces of interactive multimedia that encourage student participation in learning tasks and that appeal to multiple intelligences and learning styles.…

In this comparison, NewMedia lab looks at 10 Pentium II workstations preconfigured for demanding three dimensional and multimedia work with OpenGL cards and fast Ultra SCSI hard drives. Highlights include costs, tests with Photoshop, technical support, and a sidebar that explains Accelerated Graphics Port. (Author/LRW)

Explains how to transfer graphics from paper into multimedia productions through scanning. Discusses uses of scanning in business, government and education; how the scanner works; types of scanners; and general facts about them. Presents tips for effective scanning from professionals, including general maintenance advice. (AEF)

Look no further than to the popularity of C-SPAN's annual video documentary competition for middle and high schoolers, and it's obvious that video editing, and the technology that comes with it, is important to today's students. In the past it was a complex, involved, and expensive process. Video editing is now within the reach of anybody with a…

Describes and compares two methods for developing multimedia courseware for use on the Internet: an authoring tool called Shockwave, and an object-oriented language called Java. Topics include vector graphics, browsers, interaction with network protocols, data security, multithreading, and computer languages versus development environments. (LRW)

Secondary vocational-technical education programs in Mississippi are faced with many challenges resulting from sweeping educational reforms at the national and state levels. Schools and teachers are increasingly being held accountable for providing true learning activities to every student in the classroom. This accountability is measured through…

Even though the increasing amount of multimedia material available for technology-assisted classrooms can make presentations more attractive and aesthetically pleasing, instructors and administrators should be aware of the increased demand on technology resources that the new graphics and animation programs create. Use of these materials…