Discusses the importance of accurate graphic presentation and describes graphs available on "LabQuest" computer software. Highlights include graphing conventions; prerequisites for computer graphing; bar graphs; pie graphs; stacked bar graphs; line graphs; x/y graphs; scatter graphs; box plots; stem and leaf graphs; best fit graphs; and…

Discussion of knowledge constructionism focuses on LEGO TC logo, a program that permits control of LEGO toys by means of a computer. A project for 9- and 10-year-old students that uses LEGO TC logo to develop concepts related to automatic control systems is explained. (three references) (LRW)

Reviews the historical evolution of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and discusses recent advances in intelligent systems. Intelligent tutoring systems are described from the system designer's and learner's perspectives, and possible future applications are considered. A list of existing intelligent CAI systems is provided. (14 references) (CLB)

Discusses the role of the elementary school computer lab instructor and suggests that, for successful integration of computers into the curriculum, the role should change from teacher to consultant. Strategies of change are discussed in two main stages: educating teachers, followed by shifting responsibility from the lab instructor to the…

Presents refections about learning technology based on the philosophies of John Dewey and group learning processes. Topics discussed include collaborative inquiry; current conceptions of learning and technology, including the use of multimedia, telecommunications, and computers; distinguishing inquiry from use and enjoyment; and implications for…

Shows how guidelines from Robert Pirsig's "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" can be used to evaluate computer-based projects in the schools. Guidelines include caring about the project, viewing it from the perspective of the specialist and the common person, and being systematic in approach. (KRN)

Summarizes educational research on four aspects of learner feedback--function, timing, schedule, and type--and discusses implications of the findings for software development. (MBR)

Explains how the different levels of instructional videodisc programs serve different teaching situations. Characteristics of the software and the hardware system required for its use are described; the role of the teacher is discussed; and levels of interactivity between the student and the computer are described. (LRW)

This first in a series of articles on organizing electronic network-based instructional interactions describes and compares macro-organizational elements, strategies, and tactics of three popular electronic networks: the FrEdMail Network, the National Geographic Kids' Network, and the AT&T Learning Network. (Contains five references.) (LRW)

Suggests computer assisted instruction software that doesn't provide all necessary components of a lesson can be useful if the teacher identifies instructional functions (Gagne's Events of Instruction) provided by the program and supplies those that are missing. This framework is applied to analysis of a specific computer program. (MBR)

Describes a study that examined the effects of various computer reinforcement responses, including graphics and/or sound, on students' attentiveness to the program. Implications for educational software design are discussed. (CLB)

Provides suggestions for organizing online educational projects. Topics include choosing curriculum-based goals; choosing an activity structure, including interpersonal exchanges, information collections, and problem-solving projects; exploring examples of other online projects; determining details; inviting telecollaborators; effective online…

Explains the use of experimental poetry forms for decoding practice to help develop reading skills in elementary school students. The use of computers for word processing capabilities is discussed; seven forms of poetry are described; and results are examined in terms of motivation and the development of literacy. (four references) (LRW)

Discusses benefits of keyboarding instruction for elementary school students, emphasizing the integration of keyboarding with language arts instruction. Traditional typing and computer-assisted instruction are discussed, six software packages for adapting keyboarding instruction to the classroom are reviewed, and suggestions for software selection…

Outlines competencies for computer education specialists, i.e., individuals working with teachers and students to teach the use of computers for instructional purposes rather than computer science. These competencies were developed from an informal survey of individuals currently working in such positions. (MBR)