Describes the "ABCD" model for integrating spreadsheets into elementary science instruction, which consists of four steps: analyzing the software and curriculum; brainstorming connections between parts of the software and the content areas; creating connections among the curriculum, the brainstorming information, and noncomputer classroom…

Colleges and universities can capitalize on advancing information technology to provide new options and opportunities for students and bring profit to the institution. Commercial opportunities include: educational production, certification, and delivery services; courseware development; creation of subscription services for access to information…

Discusses when instructional designers, communicators, and learners should use multimedia. Outlines reasons for using sound in multimedia; discusses how to use music, voice, and animation; and describes how to reap the benefits of video for online documentation when the costs of the medium are justified. (AEF)

Describes an approach for designing low cost learning laboratories by using new tools and combining existing tools in innovative ways. Discusses human problem-solving behavior and problem-solving instruction in complex situations, the role of software tools, and the creation of instructional systems development in systems thinking. (PEN)

Discusses the use of electronic portfolios by school library media specialists for professional development as a resume, an evaluation instrument, or other types of credential documentation. Includes guidelines for building a successful portfolio, including appropriate software selection; audience considerations; and technology skill…

Explores examples of software that employs interactivity to engage students in a dialogue with the past: (1) "Reverse America"; (2) "Pilgrims and Indians"; (3) "Keys to Victory in the War for Independence"; (4) "Monmouth"; (5) "Critical Period"; (6) "Translating"; (7) "Founders"; and (8) "Convention". (CMK)

Traces the evolution of virtual field trips and discusses both the advantages and disadvantages of the virtual field trip. Explores three approaches to improving the interactivity of virtual field trips (interactive field exercises, generic software, and student-centered Web sites). Includes references. (CMK)

Uses SimCalc MathWorlds, which is downloaded from the World Wide Web, to engage students in algebraic problem-solving activities. Uses software to animate characters by creating graphs of position and velocity. (YDS)

Discusses the use of digital video projects for online courses in higher education and presents a list of 10 recommendations for helping faculty with the digital video project development process. Highlights include timelines; funding; planning; knowing the audience; hardware and software choices; evaluation; research; and publicizing the…

Describes techniques for using the SCISEARCH database to determine how often a particular journal is cited by authors affiliated with a particular institution. The use of CROSSTALK and WordPerfect to create offline searches to minimize costs is explained, and using the resulting information to make journal subscription and cancellation decisions…

This article describes (1) IBM's National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities, a clearinghouse of information about adaptive devices, software, and support groups helping disabled persons use IBM computers; (2) special IBM products, including the Screen Reader, SpeechViewer, and PhoneCommunicator; and (3) an IBM-sponsored program whereby…

Discusses the use of CD-ROMs in library processing and public services units. Topics discussed include local area networks, workstations, network security, search software, disk operating systems (DOS), computer viruses, CD-ROM selection and acquisition, licensing, and standards. A sidebar lists current CD-ROM products appropriate for reference…

Describes learning strategies used by design groups at the Educational Technology Center at the University of California, Irvine, to develop interactive computer-based learning materials. Highlights include excerpts from scripts developed in project design sessions; yes-no questions and string matching; pointing input and single characteristic…

An animation project was developed for pupils with moderate learning difficulties, age 12-14. Using a computer system, normal pencil-and-paper drawings done by children were shot by a video camera, stored in the computer, colored with a graphics program, and then manipulated for various animation effects. (JDD)

The implementation of the first phase of a project involving the use of computer software in a course on the mathematics of finance is discussed. Results of a controlled experiment indicated that the techniques employed seemed to have positively impacted the performance of the students. (CW)