Technology-based instruction represents a new recent pedagogical paradigm that is rooted in the realization that new generations are much more comfortable with, and excited about, new technologies. The rapid technological advancement over the past decade has fueled an enormous demand for the integration of modern networking, informational and…

Three new developments are sparking renewed enthusiasm for microcomputers among science teachers: teacher-designed software, more powerful hardware, and increased access to teacher inservice and coursework for computer-assisted instruction. Central to tomorrow's science curriculum will be teachers' acting as mentors, facilitators, and…

This article outlines issues and practices related to the philosophy of simulations and the relationship between traditional simulation techniques and computer technology. Introduces the articles in this special issue and concludes by discussing various problems related to computer simulation, modeling, design, and evaluation. (Author/BSR)

Interactive videodisc systems offer individualized instruction that actively involves the learner. Benefits and drawbacks of using videodiscs in the classroom are discussed. (DF)

This article describes a university-sponsored experiential-based simulation, the NANO SCENARIO, to increase the public's awareness and affect attitudes on the societal implications of nanoscience and nanotechnology by bringing together diverse stakeholders' perspectives in a participatory learning environment. Nanotechnology has the potential for…

SimuFlite Co. nearly went under when a state-of-the-art computer-based training simulation for airplane pilots took too long to develop and was not liked by participants. The revamped program emphasized live instructors, technical manuals, and videotapes. The program's failure illustrates the disadvantages of computer-based training. (SK)

Describes TECH 2000, a permanent gallery of interactive multimedia applications contributed by manufacturers and producers of multimedia systems. Located in Washington, DC, the gallery includes examples of multimedia technology in the areas of arts and culture, new technology, interactive training, educational tutorials, community information,…

This paper examines the use of the computer as a mediating device and explores its influence on the social studies curriculum. A variety of software uses are analyzed, including drill and practice, tutorials, computerized databases, and simulations. The possible effects these uses can have are examined in terms of two views of social studies…

This article describes a university-sponsored experiential-based simulation, the NANO SCENARIO, to increase the public's awareness and affect attitudes on the societal implications of nanoscience and nanotechnology by bringing together diverse stakeholders' perspectives in a participatory learning environment. Nanotechnology has the potential for…

The essence of the computer revolution is yet to come, for computers are essentially generators of realities. Virtual reality (VR) is the next step in the evolutionary path; the user is placed inside the image and becomes a participant within the computational space. A VR computer generates a direct experience of the computational environment. The…

According to the author's book "Being Digital," our world is shifting from atoms to bits. Digitally rendered information, combined with personal computing power and networks, will make computers active participants in our everyday lives. "Teaching-disabled" classrooms will move from passivity to active participation and…

At Boston College (Massachusetts), chemistry faculty are incorporating advanced technology into the classroom to motivate students to further study. A new $31 million chemistry center allows computer-based simulated experiments, computer-assisted instruction, and advanced graphics for visualization. Despite use of incentives, some student…

The essays in this volume explore the ways the Speech Communication Association (SCA) might use the computing technology of the microprocessor. The six chapters focus on the following topics: (1) ways the new technology will impact on the processing of manuscripts for speech journals and the SCA's national conventions, with particular emphasis on…

Today, at the end of 2007, there are evident consolidations in wireless, storage, and virtualization and the path forward seems clearer now than previously. Trends from last year continue strongly, particularly Web 2.0 and the shift to user-driven environments and Internet sites where significant data and video processing is available to those…

Graphical plans for construction of machinery and architecture have evolved over the last 6,000 years beginning from hieroglyphics to drawings on printable media, from the "Golden Age" of engineering graphics to the innovation of computer graphics and prototyping. The evolution of engineering design graphics as a profession has also evolved. Years…