This paper briefly describes an assignment designed to improve teachers' attitudes toward technology through basic instruction. A group of teachers who were taking graduate level courses were introduced to computer technology in a non-threatening manner starting with learning the basic computer skills, such as e-mail, word processing, and…

This paper discusses practices, issues, and trends in Japanese middle school education that have bearing on U.S. education, grouping them into four categories. Section 1, "School Reform," discusses central control of education, opportunities for student creativity, improved teacher education, and the examination system. Section 2,…

This paper describes the personalized system of instruction (PSI), a teaching method based on a high student involvement in the learning process, immediate feedback, mastery learning, and careful planning and instructional design of the course content. With PSI, students proceed through the course at their own pace and are required to demonstrate…

This paper describes the use of technology by students and their instructor in a course on multicultural education at Gallaudet University (District of Columbia). In the course, Multicultural Foundations of Education, each technology-based course component is designed to satisfy a specific constructivist learning objective. Students engage in…

Fermilab is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory for research exploring the fundamental nature of matter and energy. This paper describes the Fermilab LInC (Leadership Institute Integrating Internet, Instruction and Curriculum) Online program and the strategies used over the past six years to develop leadership teams that can: (1)…

Describes a number of topics in geography that are effected by the multimedia information revolution. These include research in political geography, finance, and the geography of tourism and medicine. Considers new technologies assisting spatial modeling and visualization of data and their effects on these fields. (MJP)

Describes a pilot project designed to foster quality literacy projects by fifth-grade students; establish a positive working relationship between fifth-grade teachers and the Chapter 1 reading teachers; and provide an enriching atmosphere for the use of computers. Notes that the project uses portfolios and a process model of writing. Notes staff…

Scanners linked to computers with speech synthesizers are used by the visually impaired. A study of 13 sighted children needing additional help in reading determined that such systems provide benefit for children with "global" reading delay, are more effective improving reading than spelling, and are of little value for children with…

Provides a review and analysis of various literature related to educational technology and distance education. Addresses some of the ways that these technologies may change aspects of higher education including scholarship, student development and retention, changing demographics, and the search for an academic community. (MJP)

Provides a comprehensive pedagogical framework for incorporating the Geographical Information System (GIS) into college geography courses. Utilizes Berry's Geographic Matrix to develop approaches to teaching, both about GIS, and with GIS. Considers GIS as a collection of marketable skills, enabling technology, and new discipline. Includes tables…

High school physics offers opportunities to use problem solving and lab practices as well as cement skills in research, technical writing, and software applications. Describes and evaluates computer software enhancing the high school physics curriculum including spreadsheets for laboratory data, all-in-one simulators, projectile motion simulators,…

Considers the applications and limitations of supplementing political science instruction with USENET discussion groups. Maintains that the engaging and topical nature of the discussion groups can enhance traditional course materials. Notes, however, that USENET comments often are not indicative of the general public. Briefly discusses reference…

Explores the educational possibilities inherent in combining Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) with communications technology. A MIDI system (a combination synthesizer and computer) allows students to compose, record, experiment, and correct at one site. A MIDI file can be sent via e-mail to others for comments. (MJP)

Reports on an experiment designed to document the benefits of introducing computer exercises into an introductory human geography course. Suggests that the disappointing results reflect the fact that quantitative evaluation of multimedia effectiveness is ineffective due to the inherent complexity of learning. Recommends combining quantitative and…

Replicates a classic psychology laboratory experiment where students either endorsed or refuted personal statements and estimated how other people would respond. Students always overestimated an affirmative response on the statements they endorsed, thus illustrating the false consensus effect. Includes a list of the statements and statistical…