This article presents a summary of the findings of a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature on computer-based interactive simulations for K-12 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning topics. For achievement outcomes, simulations had a moderate to strong effect on student learning. Overall, simulations have…

Sigmund Tobias came to the United States in 1948, after his family had fled to China from the Holocaust in Europe. His Memoir ("Strange Haven: A Jewish Childhood in Wartime Shanghai") describes that part of his life. He settled in New York, where he completed his B.A. and M.S. in School Psychology from the City College of New York, and a…

This writing looks at an elemental aspect of learning and communication, the question, and contends that questions can be viewed as a technology for education. Questions that we ask in the classroom, online, or in discussion can shape learning and develop skills in students, and they should be more systematically employed in education. This…

Digital games were reviewed as an emerging tool in educational technology. Factors such as instructional effectiveness, time on task, relationship to curricula, student socio-economic status, violence in games, and game mechanics were considered. Despite considerable variability among studies, larger overall effect sizes for the impact of games on…

Evidence collected on the effectiveness of four educational technologies is briefly reviewed. The authors conclude that there is reasonable evidence that computer-assisted instruction can have at least a modest effect on improving learning and probably more when its instructional approaches are properly matched to instructional objectives, that…

The use of reflection and analysis in preparation of elementary and secondary preservice teachers has become a standard practice aimed at helping them develop the capacity to engage in intentional and systematic investigation of their practice. Editing video may be a more powerful tool than writing reflections based on memory to help preservice…

Presents a postmodern view of educational technology, specifically PowerPoint, highlighting new frames: multiple voicing, breakup of the canon, supplementarity, nonlinearity, slippery signifieds, and ironic juxtaposition. (PEN)

Briefly reviews research on the effectiveness of CAI in instruction, and describes a study comparing the performance of students using one program for basic marketing--TRMP (Tutorial Review of Marketing Principles)--with or without a study guide, the study guide alone, and a traditional class. (BBM)

Electronic Performance Support Systems (EPSSs) are replacing traditional training in many settings. This article describes a package to determine the return on investment (ROI) of an EPSS used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, applicable as well as to the calculation of ROI for other EPSSs. (Author/AEF)

A study was undertaken to determine whether PLATO would be used by the medical students at Mercer University and whether attitudes toward this type of computer-assisted instruction would prove generally positive; results indicated that students did utilize the system and that this use generated an overall favorable attitude. References are listed.…

Argues that computer assisted instruction (CAI) contributes to a creative environment for students with varying abilities by encouraging student self-selection, exploration of new ideas and divergent thinking skills, and interaction between tutor and learner. An example of computer use to spur creativity is included. Fourteen references are…

Provides a structural definition of interactivity in instruction, with the goal of describing and delimiting a broad and general process. Examines the four major attributes to the concept of interactivity, and defines four additional variables that arise through the structural study of interaction. Outlines five common patterns that deal with…

Describes an in-house project run by students and local school staff studying the feasibility of microcomputers for school management, computer assisted instruction, computer literacy, computer programing, and community services. Hardware tested, rationale for system choice, and hardware problems, are also discussed. (RAO)

Two experiments assessed individual and group response to using a microcomputer for vocabulary improvement in Dutch to English instruction. Findings indicate that a compromise has to be found between a straightforward learning aid such as a microcomputer and a more general purpose instructional system with additional facilities like sound and…

Discusses a project to create and evaluate computer-assisted instruction (CAI) sequences for intermediate mathematics and a parallel project to produce and validate test items suitable for inclusion in the Ontario Assessment Instrument Pool (OAIP). Evaluation of the CAI project indicated positive effects on student achievement and attitudes. Four…