This article explores the potential learning benefits of three-dimensional (3-D) virtual learning environments (VLEs). Drawing on published research spanning two decades, it identifies a set of unique characteristics of 3-D VLEs, which includes aspects of their representational fidelity and aspects of the learner-computer interactivity they…

The use of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) is becoming increasingly important and widespread in mathematics research and teaching. In this paper, I will report on a questionnaire study enquiring about mathematicians' use of CAS in mathematics teaching in three countries; the United States, the United Kingdom, and Hungary. Based on the responses…

In this paper we will focus on a specific category of Collaborative Virtual Environments that aims to support Collaborative Learning. We call these environments Collaborative Educational Virtual Environments. Our aim is to analyze the evaluation process through the study of relevant bibliography and by doing so reveal the existing research gap…

Self-regulated learning (SRL) has become an important topic in education during the last three decades. At the same time, advances in technology have made it possible to create complex Technology Enhanced Learning Environments (TELEs). While there is some evidence that these TELEs have the potential to foster SRL, there is only little research on…

Discusses models of home educational computing that are linked to learning in school and recommends the need for research that addresses the home as a computer-based learning environment. Topics include a history of research on educational computing at home; technological infrastructure, including software and compatibility; Internet access;…

Defines hypermedia and describes the structure and functional requirements of a hypermedia program. Potentials of hypermedia for instructional delivery, idea generation and organization, file storage and organization, and development of computer-based instruction materials are discussed. Several research issues related to instructional…

Discussion of applications of computer technology in the mental health field focuses on the design, implementation, and effectiveness of an interactive generic computer program for the systematic desensitization of phobias. Guidelines for developing the program are presented; Goal Attainment Scaling is discussed; and suggestions for future…

Educators are asking about the appropriate role of computers in the classroom, whether computers have a legitimate place in a classroom for young children or will supplant more important activities, and whether children under the age of 8 should use microcomputers. These general questions must be examined in order to discover the real, underlying…

Three articles discuss the development, availability, uses, and future of authoring systems. An overview of 74 authoring software packages is provided that includes vendors and costs; Crowell describes the development of interactive software, including programing and authoring languages; and Bork describes tools for developing technology-based…

Course management systems (CMSs), such as Blackboard, Desire2Learn, or WebCT, have become a common resource at universities, colleges, and distance learning organizations. Research into how these systems are used for learning is in an early state. Currently, this research focuses on technical features in a CMS more than research about how people…

Presents an overview of computer assisted instruction (CAI) as an instructional technique; describes studies on CAI effectiveness in compensatory education; discusses elements that need to be addressed to create a positive relationship between CAI, compensatory education, and achievement gains; and reviews evaluation designs appropriate in…

This report presents a national agenda for research on the learning of thinking skills via computer technology which was developed at a National Academy of Sciences conference on educational, methodological, and practical issues involved in the use of computers to promote complex thought in grades K-12. The discussion of research topics agreed…

How a multimedia program that employs concept maps and hypertext for teaching "Hamlet" facilitated comprehension in an undergraduate course is described. Results suggest factors that instructional designers should take into account to improve learning. Thirty-six upper-division college students were enrolled in a course on Shakespeare at…

Reviews conceptual bases for hypertext, relates them to hypertext design issues, and suggests research issues that need to be addressed. Topics discussed include cognitive psychology; schema theory and semantic networks; problems with hypertext; knowledge structures; software; inductive and deductive design methods; and expert systems. (12…

Describes an educational computer network, SuperInterface, that could be used for telestudy for university education. Topics discussed include computer-supported collaborative work; computer-based learning; multimedia databases, or electronic books; human-machine interfaces; hardware, software, and groupware; learners; teachers; organizations and…