This report showcases a new type of online homework system that provides students with a free-form interface and dynamic feedback. The ORCCA Tutor (Open-Response Chemistry Cognitive Assistance Tutor) is a production rules-based online tutoring system utilizing the Cognitive Tutoring Authoring Tools (CTAT) developed by Carnegie Mellon University.…

Lewis structures are important for learning chemistry as they serve as an essential link between the structure of chemical compounds and their function. Unfortunately, the creation of valid Lewis structures remains an elusive goal for many students. In recent years, several web-based programs have been created that allow students to receive…

Neelu Sinha, Laila Khreisat, and Kiron Sharma describe how learner-interface interaction promotes active learning in computer science education. In a pilot study using technology that combines DyKnow software with a hardware platform of pen-enabled HP Tablet notebook computers, Sinha, Khreisat, and Sharma created dynamic learning environments by…

The culture of the young may, in fact, be a harbinger enticing us to follow a pathway from which will emerge the re-conceptualized educational practices of this new century. The culture of those older will, no doubt, strive to maintain the more golden aspects of their now historical learning experiences. One of the tasks of all educators, but…

The word "portfolio" might bring to mind the artist's case bulging with sketches, samples and finished or unfinished works in no particular order. On the other hand, it might suggest the familiar collection of report cards, crayon drawings and dioramas that accumulate in schoolchildren's homes over the years. In an adult education setting,…

Describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of a distributed Web-based learning community (DisWBLC) based on knowledge sharing for college students. Highlights include virtual learning communities; Web site resource searching; databases; screen design; user interface; feedback from teachers and students; and future possibilities.…

Discusses cultural differences in Web site design for cross-cultural contexts and describes a study of Masters Degree students in Hong Kong that investigated their perceptions of Web learning environments that had been designed in Australia and delivered into Hong Kong and China. Considers the appropriateness of western interface design…

Describes a Web site, The Teachers Lounge, developed for a televised distance education course for special education teachers. Highlights include combining televised distance education, Web-enhanced course components, and case-based instruction; graphics and user interface; students' reactions to the cite; and suggestions for improving Web-based…

Describes a prototype for a World Wide Web site that supports as many student and instructor needs as possible and was developed for a graduate course on instructional design. Topics include roles of the instructor and of the webmaster, student perspectives, technical design issues, user interface, and graphics. (LRW)

Discusses issues that students from a high school and an elementary/middle school identified as important for reviewing multimedia software programs, and includes suggestions for evaluation criteria: entertainment/educational value; skill development; measurement; speed/time; variety; and user interface. Also describes developers' use of student…

This paper describes a tele-educational environment and reports on experiences obtained during international trials. The tele-educational environment is built around the metaphor of a college. The virtual college offers the opportunity for students to participate in desktop tele-education from their homes or offices. The environment is based on…

The current paper examines the design process that led to an unusually successful interactive tutorial for older people. The paper describes the issues that make designing for older people different. These include differences between the designer and the target population and the difficulty that older people have in interacting with low-fidelity…

Describes a Master of Education program at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign called Curriculum, Technology, and Education Reform OnLine (CTER) that is aimed at K-12 teachers. The evaluation based on program stakeholders includes interface design; instructional design; faculty satisfaction; student attitudes; economic viability;…

The Pennsylvania State University, through its World Campus, is exploring several design models which provide multifaceted communication environments for distance education. Currently, students enrolled in World Campus programs interact with courses delivered through WebCT, a course management tool, or through FirstClass. This paper focuses on…