Discusses the problem of establishing terminology for mental models, attempts to sort out the various meanings found in the literature, and offers definitions that could help in developing a more standardized terminology for discussing issues of concern to researchers in human-computer interaction. The role of mental models in learning and using…

Outlines the attributes of "BaseMap," a map-making software package. Locating specific outline maps is a consistently frustrating problem for most instructors. BaseMap allows teachers to copy any map onto their clipboard and make revisions using standard word processing programs. Provides a quick overview of the tools and functions. (MJP)

Contemporary culture exhibits an increasingly polarized spectrum of attitudes toward virtualization: those who want photorealism and those who seek sheer fantasy. This author describes "Virtual Realism," his strategy for balancing the two social forces. His students at California's Art Center College of Design are putting it to the test.…

Methuen Public Schools, Massachusetts, has become a wired school system with computers in every classroom, Internet access, and state-of-the-art mixed-media. Five citizens who work in the technology industry formed a steering committee to drive the project. A long-term partnership with a private vendor, Lucent Technologies, addresses the…

Outlines the Technical Aide (TA) internship program in the Tamalpais Union High School District (Larkspur, California) where students skilled in computer use facilitate technology use within the school. A TA program can provide needed personnel and service in the library as well as highlight library staff competence in technology. Presents tips…

Focuses on how to schedule the use of a single computer so that all students are represented and given equal access. Suggests that a computer management team be selected from within the class; discusses the teacher's role and student role definition and responsibility assignments. (AEF)

Describes use of the little-known Shuttle Puzzle in computer programming to elucidate the process of analyzing a problem and synthesizing observations into an algorithm that can be used to generate a programming solution. The process used to solve the problem reflects one that an expert uses. The method could be adapted for small-group cooperative…

Describes "SuperText," computer software designed to support expository writing among students in distance learning programs, and its theoretical justification. Notes the various models of writing supported by "SuperText" and outlines the functions of the program. Evaluates "SuperText" on the basis of student…

Presents two groups of text encoding problems encountered by the Brown University Women Writers Project while using Standard Generalized Markup Language (SGML) to create a database of book transcriptions: dual emendation and correction, and multiple hierarchies. Offers several possible approaches to these encoding problems and analyzes the issues…

In 1995, a racially and socioeconomically diverse school in suburban Illinois opened with new curriculum and instructional approaches and supportive technology. Change occurred rapidly, leadership was crucial, vision directed staff efforts, and negativities were minimized. Staff made important decisions, everyone learned and taught, and teachers…

Discusses the changes in today's schools resulting from the growth of information technology and community needs. Examines how some school districts are responding to the technological retrofit issue; looks at the challenges they face in placing technology in the classroom, allocating space, and building flexibility into the school. Highlighted…

Discusses results of a 1997 "CMC News" readers' survey of the top 10 CD-ROM titles used by schools. Compares results of previous surveys (1993 and 1995). Four tables and figures show number of users for each of the 10 CD-ROMs, top-10 rankings for year 1993, 1995, and 1997, increase in ownership of 7 of the 10 titles, and total respondents owning…

Examines the use of technology by college faculty and the importance of going beyond the technology itself. Topics include computer literacy, building students' confidence in technology, real-world readiness, presentation software, word processing, e-mail, spreadsheets and databases, and information access. (LRW)

Examines the use of new technology in foreign-language classrooms, specifically language labs equipped with interactive computers, interactive software packages, CD-ROMS, e-mail, and the Internet. States that faculty members are creating language multimedia packages that engage students in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Suggests ways…

Fearing security problems, a congressional committee on Chinese espionage recommends that foreign students and other foreign nationals be barred from using supercomputers at national laboratories unless they first obtain export licenses from the federal government. University officials dispute the data on which the report is based and find the…