Discussion of communication between designers and users of information systems focuses on a review of seven participatory design techniques in terms of the communication dimensions found in the Lievrouw and Finn communication systems model. Implications for the development of more effective and appropriate design models and methods are suggested.…

Describes audiographics teleteaching, a microcomputer-based system incorporating computer graphics for distance education. Topics covered include use of audiographics for inservice courses to teachers in Hawaii; appropriate telecommunications software; a model for audiographics teleteaching; strengths and weaknesses of audiographics; and…

Discusses the various ways computers and related technology are being used in early childhood and elementary settings. Describes different types of educational software, local area networks and telecommunications, and online information services such as CompuServe and Prodigy. Gives examples of online curricular activities and advice on the…

A nontechnical overview of electronic data interchange (EDI) and of the SPEEDE/ExPRESS Project, which uses EDI to transmit transcripts between schools and colleges, is presented. It explores the fundamental value of the technology, specific costs and benefits, and its potential to transform the delivery of academic support services. (Author/MSE)

Discusses the design and implementation of lexicons in computer-assisted language learning (CALL). Topics addressed include the dictionary's role in the learner's acquisition of vocabulary as opposed to its use as a reference tool; mental lexicons; electronic dictionaries; morphological processing; context sensitivity; layering information; and…

This article examines the concept of interactivity and discusses human-to-human interactivity versus computer-to-human interaction in education. Levels of communicative interdependence are explained, variables that are important ingredients of interactivity are discussed, learner control is discussed, and two interactive instructional systems are…

Deaf students in grades 6-8 issued a newspaper as a regular part of the English curriculum. The project involved making a trip to a newspaper publisher, setting aside a "newsroom" classroom area, selecting staff, brainstorming story ideas, learning to use the Newsroom computer program, writing, editing, and planning the layout. (JDD)

Describes Vitrine 2001, an innovative computer-based learning environment at the Quebec Centre for Research in Educational Computing. Highlights program responses to educational software deficiencies; teachers' limitations in providing appropriate pedagogical support; and the need for support materials to help children get the most out of their…

Local area networks (LANs) are systems of computers and peripherals connected together for the purposes of electronic mail and the convenience of sharing information and expensive resources. In planning the design of such a system, the components to consider are hardware, software, transmission media, topology, operating systems, and protocols.…

Discusses the design of interfaces for online systems and suggests requirements that must be met to offer maximum aid to inexperienced users. Highlights include the online search process, user data, query processing, database descriptors, semantic links, multilingual processing, search strategies, and distributed systems. A 20-page bibliography…

Describes efforts by the Motorola Training and Education Center (MTEC) to develop and implement a model for applying the concepts of quality/continuous improvement to the design of courseware. MTEC's role as change agent is discussed; the use of an instructional systems design model is explained; and problems are identified. (LRW)

Describes a variety of computer software programs and student activities utilizing the computer to help teach secondary social studies. Suggests using word processors, painting programs, and computer simulations for history and government courses. Concludes that successful use of computers in social studies instruction depends on the design of…

Discusses reasons for the slower acceptance of educational technology in the humanities. Highlights include teacher training; support staff skills; software development; lack of equity in funding for hardware and software; technology diffusion; and a description of the Concerns-Based Adoption Model, a comprehensive model of change in education.…

Through case studies, this article examines how technology can be used as part of intervention strategies with language handicapped children. It discusses theoretical considerations; stimuli, responses, and reinforcements; staff roles; individualization; and software. The need for increased accessibility to computers by speech/language clinicians…

Describes the development of a computer lab for freshman high school students. Questions to consider when planning a computer environment are suggested; software and hardware selection is discussed; room arrangements are considered; issues related to buying and installing software are described, including site licensing; and the computer…