This paper demonstrates a methodology for effectively integrating computer-based learning tools in science teaching and learning. This methodology provides a means of systematic analysis to identify the capabilities of particular software tools and to formulate a series of competencies relevant to physical science that could be developed by means…

PowerPoint, the widely-used slide-show software package, is finding increasing currency in lecture halls and classrooms as the preferred method of communicating and presenting information. But, as Adams [Adams, C. (2006) "PowerPoint, habits of mind, and classroom culture." "Journal of Curriculum Studies," 38(4), 389-411] attempts to show, users…

Reviews the book CASE STUDIES OF MICROCOMPUTERS IN THE CLASSROOM by Olson and Eaton (1986). Considers the structure and content of the report, the research philosophies and strategies endorsed, and teacher conceptions of educational computer uses. States that traditional methods of educational research are used and that few probing questions about…

Provides a review of research on the use of computers in education. Concludes that the computer's ability to provide active learning with sustained attention and consistent feedback make it a useful teaching tool for a wide variety of subjects. Urges more research into the physical, social, and instructional contexts in which computerized…

Explores the efforts of a curriculum development team who set out to create a virtual frog for use in biology education, but instead, after several design studies, developed a virtual world called Frog Island. Argues for incorporating educational design studies into other educational development projects. (CMK)

Focuses on projects funded by the National Science Foundation that illustrate the potential of computers and telecommunications to convey higher-order skills and knowledge. Discusses two projects, ScienceWare and Learning though Collaborative Visualization, as examples of knowledge-networking. Describes three other projects that are centered on…

Examines ideas on a thinking curriculum and "learning to learn" in the secondary education context. Explores computing studies at the Scottish secondary 3/4 level with 14- to 16-year-olds. Explains that this case study provides an example of the infusion approach being incorporated into the teaching of computer programming. (CMK)

Explores a range of responses, attitudes, and behaviors of seventh- and eighth-grade students to computer and video technology through observations and other research techniques over the course of a school year. Characterizes the students as having "computer personalities" and explains different cases. Offers suggestions for including…

Presents a study that addresses the importance of instructional metacognitive knowledge of university freshman through the use of a survey covering: (1) instruction in general; (2) instruction in two different environments; and (3) specific delivery systems and concrete interventions. Finds that instructional experiences affect the student's…

Investigates the ways in which microcomputers were being used by teachers and students in grades 4-6 of a semi-rural elementary school near a major metropolitan area. Concludes that computers were only minimally used, and then without apparent focus or educational rationale. Citing teacher frustration and other causes, the authors make…

This paper discusses how the curriculum is shaped by the situational logic of a technology-filled classroom, and how this logic is under the influence of ideas about student--teacher interactions and "do-it-yourself learning." It analyses case material from a school using game theory. Free access in the classroom to the Internet, games,…

Reports a case study that examines the efforts of one teacher to increase the computer literacy of her mathematics students. Examines the implementation of a new topic and the curricular decisions made by the teacher, offers an interpretation of factors influencing these decisions, and studies their consequences. (KO)

Asserts that teacher educators struggle with how to represent the complexities of teaching in an isolated and sanitized undergraduate classroom. Describes three approaches: (1) case studies; (2) development of hypermedia environments; and (3) the integration of electronically based computer networks. (CFR)

Criticizes the compartmentalization of educational practices into a hierarchy of general, vocational, and social. Argues for a more holistic integration of technology, vocation, and education reflecting a vision of lifelong learning and meaningful work. Discusses examples of this including the Scandinavian tradition of "Sloyd"…

Examines the premise that experience with computers can fundamentally alter teaching. Contends that the promise of computers and other educational technology is overstated. Presents a case study and summaries of other studies that suggest a teacher's instructional philosophy is a more powerful determinant of computer effectiveness. (CFR)