This paper compares several interface evaluation methods applied in the case of a computer based learning (CBL) environment, during a longitudinal study performed in three European countries, Greece, Germany, and Holland, and within the framework of an EC funded Leonardo da Vinci program. The paper firstly considers the particularities of the CBL…

Reports results of two studies that compared the introduction of procedural (exemplified by Pascal) and declarative (exemplified by Prolog) programing languages to Italian secondary school students. Discussion covers learning approaches and problems, mental models, programing techniques, programing environments, and educational applications. (27…

Reports the results of a study conducted at the University of York (England) that was designed to test the effectiveness of a concept mapping tool in aiding student learning from a hypertext-based computer-assisted instruction system. Effects on learning are compared with standard notetaking through results of a posttest. (Contains 17 references.)…

Describes a study of undergraduates that was conducted to determine students' preferences toward Graphical User Interface versus Command Line Interface during computer-assisted instruction. Previous experience, comfort level, performance scores, and student attitudes are examined and compared, and the computer use survey is appended. (Contains 13…

Considers the choice of a computer-assisted instructional system from several points of view--student attitudes, cost effectiveness, and system performance level. In a comparison of five systems conducted at the University of Leyden in The Netherlands, the PLATO system was preferred. (JJD)

Describes the rationale, issues investigated, procedure, and nature of a larger report of a survey of 61 subjects from the USA, United Kingdom, Canada, and the Netherlands who work in computer based learning at the tertiary level. A qualitative summary of the conclusions and recommendations of the full report are included. (CMV)

Describes a study that investigated the performance of preschoolers and children in the first three years of formal education on tasks that involved skills using a mouse-based control of a graphical computer interface. The children's performance is compared with that of novice adult users and expert users. (five references) (LRW)

Describes a study of first-year students at a university in Scotland that was conducted to determine their use of computers at home and in school, their knowledge about information technology, and reasons for not studying computing. Results are compared with two earlier studies to examine gender-related differences over time. (Contains 12…

Describes a survey of students at a large university and a random sample of faculty at accounting accredited schools that investigated the use of microcomputers in accounting curricula. Topics discussed include work values and computer education, student and teacher attitudes toward computers, and differences between upper division and lower…

Discusses results of a survey of secondary schools in the United Kingdom which was conducted to determine factors that contribute to an increased use of computers in the curriculum. The value of INSET (Inservice Teacher Education) in information technology (IT) and computer-assisted learning (CAL) is considered. (11 references) (LRW)

Discussion of the results of an international survey of computer use in education focuses on three areas: (1) the degree to which female role models are offered to girls; (2) ways school policies take gender equity issues into account; and (3) the extent to which gender equity issues are dealt with in the curriculum. (Contains 18 references.) (LRW)

Discussion of multimedia instruction focuses on a pilot study that compared the relative effectiveness of three interactive media formats in a DVI/RTV (Digital Video Interactive/Real Time Video) computer-mediated instructional lesson for a military communications system. Hypotheses tested are discussed, and the educational importance is…

Explains the combination of hypertext and knowledge maps into hypermaps, and describes a study of undergraduates learning statistical material that compared the effectiveness of using hypertext versus hypermaps. Recall, reference time and accuracy, and student satisfaction are investigated, and needs for further studies are suggested. (10…

Describes a study that compared the expressed objectives of teachers using computer-based information handling packages in the classroom against recorded classroom outcomes. The areas of skill and knowledge acquisition, learning strategies, sociopsychological issues, and life skills are discussed. (9 references) (CLB)

This study compared Canadian elementary teachers' perceptions of computer-assisted instructional (CAI) software with findings in the literature. Topics discussed include computer-managed instruction (CMI); computers used for drill and practice and for tutorials; effectiveness of CAI; student attitudes; students' attention span; CAI as motivator;…