Provides guidelines for schools choosing a media retrieval system. Topics include broadband, baseband, coaxial cable, or fiber optic decisions; the control network; selecting scheduling software; presentation software; device control; control from the classroom; and a comparison of systems offered by five companies. (LRW)

Describes recent offerings in math software for fractions lessons that provide instruction and interactivity not previously available in electronic formats. Compares three products, including selection criteria for multimedia supplemental materials. A table provides specific information on the products, including grade level, format, system…

Describes the use of barcodes to link laser discs with books in school libraries. Highlights include use of a barcode reader as a remote control device as well as a scanner, guidelines for making laser disc books, and a sidebar that explains how to make barcodes and describes software. (LRW)

Discusses desktop video, including its use as an educational tool; interactivity; teleconferencing; equipment requirements; the role of the TBC (time-based corrector) which adjusts incoming video signals and retimes them; creating graphics; transmitting live video over the Internet; Edit Decision List software; hardware requirements; and digital…

Discusses the Copyright Act, four factors that courts must consider in determining permission by the "fair use" doctrine, and the educational exemption for using copyrighted software. Suggests that the best strategy in determining fair use is to contact the publisher, as well as requesting guidelines from the United States Copyright Office. (AEF)

Multi-user Object Oriented Internet activities (MOOs) permit real time interaction in a text-based virtual reality via the Internet. This article explains EduMOOs (educational MOOs) and provides brief descriptions, World Wide Web addresses, and telnet addresses for selected EduMOOs. Instructions for connecting to a MOO and a list of related Web…

Describes instructional uses of Microsoft PowerPoint software as demonstrated in a summer workshop for educators. Notes three uses: open house-type presentations, tutorials, and student-produced projects. Discusses how PowerPoint was used to present general information about the school and gives examples of uses in science and music history…

Presents advanced rubrics to help schools measure the effectiveness of their teacher training efforts and to guide teachers on their own learning paths. Highlights include instructional software use, information literacy skills, modification of instructional delivery, assessment of student performance, individualization of the educational program,…