This article will discuss two teacher training functions: One function is to give the teacher candidates practice in evaluating currently available mathematics websites used in grades K-8 for mathematics instruction. The second function is the evaluation of data by teaching candidates of 13 commonly used math sites by middle and elementary…

While discussion of the criteria needed to assess learning objects has been extensive, a formal, systematic model for evaluation has yet to be thoroughly tested. The purpose of the following study was to develop and assess a multi-component model for evaluating learning objects. The Learning Object Evaluation Metric (LOEM) was developed from a…

Described is the use of computer software, with and without guiding text, for a simulation that presents processes related to electric charges and electric forces underlying the electric-pendulum phenomenon. Included are methods for integrating this simulation with actual middle-school science class demonstration. (JJK)

Prior to college-level mathematics coursework, students are not routinely provided with the opportunity to engage in the kind of sustained mathematical thinking necessary to solve complex, multistep problems, most likely because of the difficulties that school mathematics teachers face in communicating problem settings and contexts that are…

Hypermedia technology offers new opportunities for developing earth science teaching materials. During the past 3 years, the U.S. Geological Survey has conducted a series of research and development projects to assess the effectiveness of hypermedia technology in providing innovative teaching products for middle school students. The goal of this…

The growing interest in the field of educational technology in the design of constructivist learning environments has led to a renewed examination of problem-based learning (PBL), an approach to instruction in which all learning results from students' efforts to solve a complex problem. Concurrent advances in technology make it possible to use…

Despite a rise in the use of handheld computers in classrooms, meaningful learning with personal digital assistant (PDA) technology remains poorly studied. This article reports results from an evaluation of customized handheld data collection software, the BioKIDS Sequence, which was used during an 8-week biodiversity curriculum unit by 5th and…

Describes the development of the Computer Game Attitude Scale (CGAS) which evaluates student attitudes toward educational computer games and is based on the Computer Attitude Scale. Results of a study conducted with middle school students are discussed; these results indicate that the CGAS produced reliable test scores that may aid in evaluation.…

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to propose and demonstrate an evidence-based scenario design framework for assessment-based computer games. Design/methodology/approach: The evidence-based scenario design framework is presented and demonstrated by using BELLA, a new assessment-based gaming environment aimed at supporting student learning of…

Provides a thorough and useful evaluation of two interactive multimedia US history programs. "Vital Issues: Reshaping and Industrializing the Nation" covers US history from European contact to the present. "Powers of Persuasion" focuses on the art of propaganda in World War II. Includes extensive information on both products.…

This practicum was designed to assist the personnel of a middle school in becoming aware of the potential educational benefits of computers and computer networks (specifically, local area networks, or LANs). An introductory presentation concerning the importance of technology in education was followed by 10 inservice training sessions. The classes…

Six classroom research-based instructional projects funded under Chapter 2 are described, and their outcomes are summarized. The projects each used computer hardware and software in the classroom setting. The projects and their salient points include: (1) the Science Technology Project, in which 48 teachers and 2,847 students in 18 schools used…