This study evaluated a PowerPoint home safety (PPHS) presentation in enhancing awareness, knowledge and behavior change among senior center attendees in southern Illinois. Twelve centers were utilized as data collection sites in a pretest-posttest control group design. Through stratified randomization, centers were placed into categories (high,…

This article presents a randomized experiment evaluating a computer-assisted tutoring program. The software program, Alphie's Alley, provides reading tutors with assessment and planning tools and performance support. It provides students with animated presentations and engaging activities. In a yearlong study involving 25 schools using the Success…

Does speed provide a "model for" rate of change in other contexts? Does JavaMathWorlds (JMW), animated simulation software, assist in the development of the "model for" rate of change? This project investigates the transference of understandings of rate gained in a motion context to a non-motion context. Students were 27 14-15 year old students at…

This article examines three important facets of the incorporation of new technologies into educational practice, focusing on emergent usages of the mathematical tools of computer algebra and dynamic geometry. First, it illustrates the interpretative flexibility of these tools, highlighting important differences in ways of conceptualizing and…

A simple interface between VPython and Microsoft (MS) Office products such as Word and Excel, controlled by Visual Basic for Applications, is described. The interface allows the preparation of content-rich, interactive learning environments by taking advantage of the three-dimensional (3D) visualization capabilities of VPython and the GUI…

This document consists of 24 microcomputer software package evaluations prepared by the MicroSIFT (Microcomputer Software and Information for Teachers) Clearinghouse at the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory. Each software review lists source, cost, ability level, subject, topic, medium of transfer, required hardware, required software,…

Describes a variety of computer software. The packages reviewed include a variety of simulations, a spread sheet, a printer driver and an alternative operating system for DBM.PCs and compatible programs. (BSR)

The study compared effects of two direct-mail educational software marketing strategies: (1) brochure only and (2) brochure and sample program provided by a journal. Those responding to Strategy 1 rated the programs higher because of less knowledge. However, those responding to Strategy 2 exhibited more respect for the journal. (CH)

Reviews the McGraw-Hill Interactive Authoring System which allows authors to create computer-based courses with or without interactive video. Use of the program requires no programming skills and authors do not need to learn a special language. The system's operation, performance, ease of use, documentation, and management are considered. (JN)

Describes a collection of widely used software programs which can help teachers be more effective. Included are graphics programs, word processing, database managers, and gradebooks. Includes names and addresses of distributors. (JDH)

Lists names and addresses of companies producing software directories, software catalogs, and professional computing journals. Suggests four considerations in ordering software. (JDH)

The article reviews ways in which software can be modified for students with mild learning difficulties and criteria for evaluating software in terms of its appropriateness to school curriculum, software format, and its effectiveness in ameliorating learning difficulties of individual children. (CL)

All 600 high schools and about one-third of the 1,600 elementary schools in Israel are now using computers. Most installations use one of four highly developed courseware systems. Experiences with these systems (Mashow, Semel, Toam 2, and Tapauch) are described. (JN)

Spreadsheet software allows manipulation of information, helps children to find answers to questions, and encourages them to ask others. Once the teacher sets up the spreadsheet, the program does the work, showing children they can calculate anything, even when their arithmetic skills cannot. (MT)

A colloge credit course in computer math for 12 gifted secondary students and their parents focused on problem-solving strategies and encouraged teamwork and communication among parents and children. (CL)