Virtual learning is not for every student, but it's not science fiction, either. Right now in Michigan, it's being used by thousands of students in hundreds of virtual courses in urban, rural and suburban school districts. In fact, Michigan has been seen as a national leader in virtual learning. This study analyzes the financial costs and academic…

Designed to help educators and policymakers consider the effective use of currently-evolving distance learning technologies, this policy brief examines: (1) the need for distance learning; (2) the most promising combinations of technologies (two-way television, one-way television with audio return, and audiographics); (3) the cost-effectiveness of…

The current paradox between the increasing interest in the utilization of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and the decreasing financial support from the Federal Government is briefly surveyed in the introduction of this annotated bibliography. The author also discusses the major problems that are now prevalent in CAI utilization: the lack of…

This report evaluates two arguments for the use of computers as an important tool in learning: (1) there is a need to develop the kinds of skills and knowledge that will allow youth to find good jobs in a changing, information-based national and international setting; and (2) computers are capable of improving the overall level of student…

Discussion of computers in schools in developing nations focuses on national and regional policies in China. Topics discussed include computer literacy; computer-assisted instruction; instructional improvement; industry interests; cost effectiveness; attitudes of administrators, teachers, parents, and students; hardware selection; and future…

This article describes and evaluates a new alternative: distance-based training using live video and audio courses transmitted via the Internet. This alternative may address each of the problems described above, that is, it may provide a distant expert who selects and delivers training to paraprofessionals in a cost efficient manner. Because the…

The future of American schools depends in large part on their openness to innovations in instructional patterns, in school organization, in education for teachers and for deprived minorities, and in their use of educational technology. Basic and applied research are needed to determine useful innovation. Cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness…