Describes the advantages of the use of handheld computers in schools. Emphasizes cost savings, increased access, and appropriateness. Asserts that handhelds will have more impact on teaching and learning than the Internet. (PKP)

Describes use of wireless technology system involving laptop computers in Henrico County Public Schools in Richmond, Virginia. Briefly describes some lessons learned about the use of laptops and the major components of the laptop security plan. Reports laptop-supported advances in student achievement. (PKP)

Describes some advantages of the early adoption of wireless, laptop, and personal digital assistant (PDA) technology. Provides examples of early adoption experiences in several school districts. Advantages include increased computer access, timesavings, and expanded curricular offerings. Also highlights potential cost savings involving, for…

First of two parts urges discarding the drill/skills approach to writing in favor of new methods developed through research. Second part discusses research findings related to the cost-effectiveness of reducing class size, using computer-aided instruction, increasing instructional time, and using peer tutors. (PGD)

Advice for educational applications of computers and predictions for society given by participants at a technology conference are quoted in this summary. (MJL)

Steps to simplify and evaluate software selection are provided, with specific guidelines for selection criteria. Included are four sample evaluations of educational courseware. (MD)

This essay considers the revolutionized education of a projected future of cheap and sophisticated technology. Predictions include a redefinition of literacy and basic skills and a restructuring of educational delivery employing computers to dispense information in order to free teachers to work directly with students on cognitive development.…

E-Learning eliminates time and distance barriers, creating universal learning-on-demand opportunities. Cisco Systems has invested over $50 million in the world's largest e-learning laboratory. Starting with 64 academies in 7 U.S. states in 1997, the Networking Academy program now serves 140,000 students in over 5,800 sites in 96 countries. (MLH)

Educational media offer no unique benefits. Once research considers lesson content, instructional strategies, and overall resource allocation, student outcome differences will disappear. The multimedia "panacea" is no equalizer, as accessibility problems abound. Schools should invest in cheaper, less fashionable instructional strategies (field…

Computer Assisted Instruciton (CAI) helps schools meet the challenge of student dropouts. CAI provides individualized instruction, a positive learning experience, and immediate feedback. Black students at Chicago's Williams Elementary School have gained in reading and math. CAI projects in Louisville, Kentucky, and Baltimore have improved academic…

Compares 1981 and 1982 national data on numbers of microcomputers in schools and school districts, including by district poverty level. Describes computer uses in instruction, management, and computer literacy in 13 districts in eight states--New York, Maryland, Texas, Illinois, Minnesota, Colorado, Arizona, and California. (RW)

The Internet's effects are spreading. Schools are purchasing computer programs, assisted by state, federal, and corporate grants. K-12 schools spent nearly $7 billion on instructional technology in 2000. The digital divide is narrowing; Generation I kids have greater computer access at home and at school. In a sidebar, Sandra Feldman urges…

Three educators review two reports about education in the future. The reviewers address the question of which predictions seem most probable and least probable in the reports. (MD)