Considers the use of technology, particularly programmable or graphics calculators and computer software, in the transition years from secondary to higher education. Discusses use of software systems like Mathematica in the extended investigative, problem solving, and modeling Common Assessment Tasks of the Victorian Certificate of Education.…

Describes how a software package that includes a spreadsheet, a relation grapher, and a dynamic geometry can contribute to teacher training through an exploratory problem-solving course. Discusses the ways in which technology-rich environments enhance and extend traditional topics. Contains 17 references. (DDR)

Explains TIMA (Tools for Interactive Mathematical Activity), that were designed to provide elementary schools children with contexts in which they could enact mathematical operations. Discusses differences from drill and practice software; provides examples of how the TIMA were used by children to engage in cognitive play; and emphasizes the…

Introducing new software to students can be done effectively if teachers provide a brief introduction; show a finished project; build a chunk of the finished product; give student pairs the steps to complete their own chunk and coach as needed; and give students a computer-based tutorial, guiding them through the same procedure. (PEN)

Discusses a computer-assisted language learning model developed by the Didascalia center designed to comply with as many Belgian criteria as possible and based on contents and events in an object-oriented approach. Describes how the didacteme as basic object can enhance learner-content interaction and how this approach can lead to a new platform…

Software piracy among college students is increasing, and the software publishing industry insists colleges are responsible for the activities of their computer nets' users. Colleges generally cooperate with publishers when their students are found infringing on copyrights. The Software Publishers Association is holding a University of Puget Sound…

"The Electronic Bookshelf," a computer-based reading motivation/management system, is described. The program verifies reading comprehension skills, keeps student records, provides a master list of titles for students to choose from, provides feedback and the opportunity to re-quiz, allows teachers and/or students to create quizzes, and includes a…

Provides an overview of the British Library's Initiatives for Access program which uses digital imaging. Highlights include digitization of microfilm, the electronic "Beowulf", electronic photographic viewing system, computer software that uses neural networks and fuzzy matching to provide links to search terms, and international…

Describes experiences in using a software package, LearnLinc, for multimedia-based learning in distance education courses for higher education. Topics include distributive learning; feedback; finding curriculum that is appropriate for the technology; copyright issues; application sharing; desktop videoconferencing; chat; e-mail; and future…

Explains how Rutgers University libraries have been experimenting with platforms in which more complex Web database technology can be reused by designing generic software functions and a generic database. Describes a platform for collecting and cataloging Web sites for an undergraduate course in history. (LRW)

Discussion of online learning and standards for web-based and computer-based courseware focuses on learning objects, defined here as small, stand-alone units of instruction that can be tagged with descriptors and stored for reuse in various instructional contexts. Presents principles of learning object design and guidelines for assuring that…

Describes the development of "Alien Rescue," a hypermedia-based program designed to engage middle school students in solving a complex problem related to the solar system and that has a science fiction premise. Discusses planning; producing and testing; theoretical influences on the design methodology; and trends in educational software…

Describes a high school art assignment in which students utilize Appleworks or Claris Works to design their own house, after learning about architectural styles and how to use the computer program. States that the project develops student computer skills and increases student knowledge about architecture. (CMK)

Explains how to decide what type of computer to buy for a small academic library, based on software requirements, staff and patron use, and PC technology. Topics include the central processing unit; types of memory; storage devices; ports; multimedia capabilities; modems; operating systems; and monitors. (LRW)

Describes the potential library uses of technology that link video cameras, video recorders, and microcomputers. The equipment is explained, including color video printers; costs are examined; and library uses are discussed, including the provision of access to material that cannot be photocopied, archival storage, and photo enhancement. (LRW)