In the UK there is increasing concern about the lack of skill in algebraic manipulation that is evident in students entering mathematics courses at university level. In this note we discuss how the computer can be used to ameliorate some of the problems. We take as an example the calculations needed in three dimensional vector analysis in polar…

Designing successful learning environments entails drawing on theoretical perspectives on learning while, at the same time, being cognisant of the affordances and constraints of the technology. This paper reports on the development of a software environment called "3DMath", a dynamic three-dimensional geometry microworld aimed at enabling learners…

In this article, the author shares her experience in using online teaching and learning with students. She describes her journey that has continued from hesitant beginnings into what has almost become a life online. As a lecturer in Arts, the author was often faced with the threat of units being slashed because of low numbers. One such unit was an…

This paper outlines the establishment and running of an after-school Computer Clubhouse, describing aspects of the leadership, mentoring and learning activities undertaken there. Research data has been collected from examination of documents associated with the Clubhouse, interviews with its founders, Director, session leaders and mentors, and…

Over the last 10 years the Internet has become an essential part of the way companies do business. These days, it is as important to have a Web site as it is to have a phone book listing. Unfortunately, many Web sites are riddled with perplexing navigation and unclear priorities that leave many users confused and frustrated. This article presents…

A heuristic description is given of the rediscovery with "Sketchpad" of a less-well-known, but beautiful, generalization of the nine-point circle to a nine-point conic, as well as an associated generalization of the Euler line. The author's initial analytic geometry proofs, which made use of the symbolic algebra facility of the TI-92 calculator,…

This column describes technology resources that teachers can use to support a celebration of reading throughout the year. In addition to online sites, other tools such as word processors, graphic drawing tools, and photo editors are suggested.

The Internet is increasingly being used as a medium for educational software in the form of miniature applications (e.g., applets) to explore concepts in a domain. One such effort in mathematics education, the Educational Software Components of Tomorrow (ESCOT) project, created 42 miniature applications each consisting of a context, a set of…

Sadly, technical support doesn't come cheap. One money-saving strategy that's gained popularity among school technicians is equipment and software standardization. When it works, standardization can be very effective. However, standardization has its drawbacks. This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of standardization.

Unless the teacher is working at an ergonomically designed workstation, using a computer can result in eyestrain, neck aches, backaches, and headaches. Unfortunately, most teachers do their keyboarding at desks, on lab tables, and in other spaces that were not designed with computer use in mind. Ergonomics is the science of adapting workstations,…

Indiana, Clarion, and Edinboro Universities of Pennsylvania are completing a PT3 grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, entitled "Preparing Teachers for the Digital Age." The grant made great progress in infusing technology into the teacher preparation curriculum possible, and participating faculty know how far they have…

This article aims to present a flexible component model for modular, web-based learning content, and a simple structured markup schema for the separation of content and presentation. The article will also contain an overview of the dynamic Learning Content Management System (dLCMS) project, which implements these concepts. Content authors are a…

A very important part of the learning process occurs during early childhood, before preschool and the first few grades. Teachers need to understand the characteristics of this early learning, and ask if they can be extended to later education. While the author's concern here is with computers, the results of such a study might also tell teachers…

People need to better understand the influence of learning management systems (LMSs) on student engagement in order to use these powerful technologies to improve campus-based education. Over the past 10 years, online learning management has been adopted by many campus-based institutions, becoming almost ubiquitous in many parts of the world. These…

Many changes are taking place in our country. Technology continues to impact on the workplace, demographics are changing the face of our neighborhoods, communities, and work environments. Globalization is placing greater demands on the economy and on workers. Educators and employers must face the challenge of how to prepare learners for new roles…