The fact that online learning has been successful for many schools across the country does not mean that it has been free of challenges. Indeed, there are numerous issues and challenges in online learning. Few policymakers anticipated that any space time, any space place learning was possible when most education laws were authored over the past 50…

This article examines software development techniques used by special educators through the perspective of the software life cycle. The paper argues that traditional programming techniques are becoming less and less feasible for software development within the typical funding levels and timelines of federal initiatives. More use of commercial…

Describes over 25 firms that have listed software applications that can be used by schools. Each listing includes the name of the software and a general description of its utility. Tables provide detailed listings of the software's functions, the type of support the company provides, and the hardware on which the software can be run. (MLF)

Described is a computer network at the University of Houston known as MacLAN. It was designed to support the instructional program of the College of Education. Included is the information on how the network was organized, what was learned, and recommendations for similar efforts. (TW)

This collection provides an overview of literature entered into the ERIC database in 1990 on computer applications in elementary and secondary education, adult education, and special education. The first of four sections contains a list of overview documents on computer assisted instruction. Focusing on special applications, the second section…

This manual expresses the South Carolina State Department of Education's understanding of the new, computerized school administration system called OSIRIS and the policy regarding its use with the Student Accountability System (SAS). The SAS is a method used to obtain a cumulative headcount of students served in certain programs specified in the…

A survey was conducted to identify the patterns of academic and administrative computer services in use--or planned for the near future--in small colleges and universities as they relate to such strategic policy areas as: (1) management/governance structure; (2) personnel-staff; (3) personnel-faculty; (4) academic computing; (5) library services;…

Discusses how to manipulate a database to create a spreadsheet which can be used to help decide which teaching areas are understaffed and by how much. Focuses on the use of the Lotus 1-2-3 database statistical functions. (TW)

"Education for a Digital World" contains a collection of strategies and tools for effective online teaching, based on the principles of learning as a social process. Narrative is supplemented by real-life examples, case studies, and resources to supply comprehensive perspectives about structuring and fostering socially engaging learning…

Discusses some of the factors included in choosing appropriate computer networks for the classroom. Describes such networks as those produced by Apple Computer, Corvus Systems, Velan, Berkeley Softworks, Tandy, LAN-TECH, Unisys, and International Business Machines (IBM). (TW)

Discusses some of the attributes of microcomputer-based school administration packages that are currently available that can provide small- to medium-size schools with full function computing capabilities for much less cost than mini and mainframe computer systems. (TW)

Discusses the computer's role in schools comparing past expectations with present status. Summarizes the constructionist approach and an opponent's claim. Provides eight examples of innovative approaches for using computers in school. (YP)

Karl Marx's theory of stages can be applied to computer use in the schools. The first stage, the P Stage, comprises the entry of the computer into the school. Computer use at this stage is personal and tends to center around one personality. Social studies teachers are seldom among this select few. The second stage of computer use, the D Stage, is…

The vast underutilization of technology in educational environments suggests the need for more research to develop models to successfully adopt and diffuse computer systems in schools. Of 980 surveys mailed to various Ohio public schools, 529 were completed and returned to help determine current attitudes and perceptions of teachers and…

Describes the rapid progress of computer technologies in China. Details the increased role of computers in business. Presents the problem of Chinese characters in computer usage especially in business. Enumerates computer usage in China at this time. Cites the quantity and quality of computer software as a major limitation. (CW)