Science becomes engaging when students know that what they learn in the classroom relates to their own lives and communities. This article describes a project in which students use field exploration and online software to design virtual solutions to improve the hydrology of their school yard. The project is called Teaching Environmental…

Natural catastrophes and engineering failures provide timely, motivating, and conceptually rich backdrops for learning. Engineering educators have long embraced case studies of engineering failures as a sound pedagogical strategy for meeting several learning standards, such as "design within realistic constraints", and teaching failure…

Environmental education and computers? That was traditionally seen as an antagonism. But environmental educators who compete for attention and face new challenges in an age of mobile devices, have begun to explore the opportunities that mobile computers may offer in supporting environmental learning experiences. This study investigates the impact…

Cites the proliferation of computer hardware and software as putting a great variety of time and labor-saving capabilities within reach of nearly any organization. Suggests 27 different ways to use a personal computer within the context of an environmental health program. (Author/MCO)

Describes multimedia CAL software with CAD/expert systems capabilities designed for use in environmental education for fourth- through sixth-grade children. The software is based on concepts of situated learning and knowledge constructivism, provides a learning environment that supports a student's decision making, and provides online feedback.…

Reports on study of use of fractal geometry in a computer graphics program to improve the perception of intermediate grade level students in their paintings. Finds that students are more likely to use changing shapes and colors after viewing slides of fractal computer graphics. Concludes that fractal computer graphics would make highly engaging…