Discusses the training of information professionals to use new technologies and provides two educational continua, depending on the knowledge base or level of competency, that may be used as guidelines for designing a new curriculum. Hardware and software continua are described based on an educational taxonomy in the cognitive domain. (LRW)

Discusses computer programs for textual research in literature and describes a graduate course on computing for the humanities that was developed at Dakota State University that used the World Wide Web and included students from throughout the world. Assignments for the course are described and benefits of textual analysis are discussed. (LRW)

Within the field of teacher education, there are software designers creating software based on case-based learning theories. This paper examines the difficulties encountered in teacher preparation, and discusses how case-based instruction can address them. It analyzes three software packages designed for case-based teacher education, and discusses…

This article presents a flowchart and component checklist to assist educators in using a systematic multidimensional approach for evaluating educational software for use with specific students with disabilities. Examples of questions to use in one-on-one summative software evaluation are provided, along with a chart showing the chronology of…

Addresses issues surrounding the process of information and communications technology training (ICT), and the application of training outcomes in the workplace. Provides an overview of content and design features of the multimedia resource "Ensuring Effectiveness of ICT Training" and reports on its evaluation. Discusses design issues, training…

The design of "Probability Explorer" was inspired by: lack of research-based elementary probability software; constructivist principles for designing computer microworlds; and research on children's probabilistic reasoning. Discussion includes the inspirational and theoretical basis for design; conceptualizing the "Probability Explorer"…

The purpose of this study was to: identify critical characteristics of a situated learning environment from the extensive literature base on the subject; operationalize the critical characteristics of a situated learning environment by designing a multimedia program that incorporated the identified characteristics; and investigate university…

Looks ahead to some of the software capabilities soon to be available on the Web for helping learners notice linguistic form in text and Web-based audio materials. Points out that some of the general purpose authoring tools on the Web are ideally suited for developing English as a Second or Other Language learning materials. (Author/VWL)

Discusses the benefits of using multimedia Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) as an alternative teaching method. CAL packages may provide more flexibility in course design, encourage student-centered learning, and help students of differing abilities and academic backgrounds. Also examines problems associated with the use of multimedia CAL such as…

Explains the function of formative evaluation and the evaluation techniques that can be used in the various stages of educational computing research and development. Topics include computer software design; selecting evaluation standards; and a framework for formative evaluation, including theoretical models, expert consultation, and field…

Reviews specific ways in which computers can support the basic transcription processes involved in writing, focusing on computer applications that go beyond word processing, including spelling and grammar checkers, speech synthesis, word prediction, and speech recognition. Focuses only on writing mechanics, and clarifies the extent to which…

Describes Web sites for special-needs students, parents, and teachers: The Bridge School, servicing students with severe speech and physical impairments; Overbrook School for the Blind; and Bruce Street School for the Deaf. Lists Web sites of special schools, resources on accessible Web design, and resources for special needs. Highlights…

The seminal work by Ericsson and Simon established verbal reports as a genuine way to get a glimpse into the "black box" of the workings of the human mind, and it is now recognised as a method of value in the pursuit of new knowledge relating to, for instance, learner strategies, cognitive strategies, human-computer interaction, and functionality…

Anchored instruction is designed to present problems in a meaningful context to allow for investigations into real life environments. The Jasper Project was created to allow students to investigate mathematical dilemmas using anchored instruction techniques. This study uses case study methods to examine the perceptions that preservice teachers…

Much of modern mathematical research requires a serious level of commitment and ability on the part of the researcher and, as a natural consequence, precludes any real involvement by undergraduate mathematicians. However, to put it crudely, Computer Algebra Systems, can make experts of us all. With the use of such systems even the average…