Agent technology has become one of the dynamic and most interesting areas of computer science in recent years. The dynamism of this technology has resulted in computer generated characters, known as pedagogical agent, entering the digital learning environments in increasing numbers. Commonly deployed in implementing tutoring strategies, these…

Physical education teachers have been encouraged to use technology in their classes to enhance student motivation and learning. The purpose of this article is to share iOS applications (apps) that K-12 physical education teachers and students have found useful.

Increasing use of screencast and Flash authoring software within libraries is resulting in "homegrown" library collections of digital learning objects and multimedia presentations. The author explores the use of Google Analytics to track usage statistics for interactive Shockwave Flash (.swf) files, the common file output for screencast and Flash…

Digital lecture capture and broadcast solutions have been around for only about 10 years, but are poised for healthy growth. Frost & Sullivan research analysts estimate that the market (which amounts to $25 million currently) will quadruple by 2013. It's still dominated by a few key players, however: Sonic Foundry holds a hefty 40 percent-plus…

The computer has now become a recognized tool in the education of young children and when used appropriately can reinforce their learning experiences. This paper reviews specific features (relating to pedagogic design, software content and user-interface design) of early childhood educational software and discusses issues in favor of its…

Reviews software programs for second language learners. "The Interactive Picture Dictionary" provides spelling assistance and vocabulary extension in a learner-oriented context. "WordSmith Tools" contains six programs focusing mainly on lexical analysis. "LANSchool" permits teachers to broadcast programs on the…

This digest describes the "Counseling Software Guide" (Walz and Bleuer, 1989). It summarizes the contents of the guide: (1) general information about the use of computers in counseling; (2) practical guidelines on what to look for in software; (3) an overview of trends and developments in availability and use of software; (4) an overview…

This annotated directory of existing databases, both online and print, is designed to assist in identifying available technology products for use in special education. The first section describes eight commercial software products with a special education focus, such as the "Closing the Gap Resource Directory" and "Software To…

Fourth in a series of six monographs on the use of new technologies in the instruction of learning disabled (LD) students, this paper explores issues related to the evaluation and selection of instructional software for LD students. Topics discussed include the following: (1) criteria for instructionally useful software (e.g., flexibility and…

This document consists of the four issues of project ACTT's newsletter issued during 1993. Issues provide articles, instructional activities, product announcements and reviews, and features on using computers and other assistive technologies with preschool children who have disabilities. Major articles include: "Preparing the Preschool…

This review explains how agent-based software technology works, discusses features of agent-based software that make it appropriate for students with disabilities, and describes a few current applications. It highlights the benefits of allowing students to interact with a friendly animated character but still be exposed to realistic images.…

Provides an annotated bibliography of up-to-date information on computer technology for geographic education in elementary schools. Suggests that, if teachers are made aware of the available resources of sophisticated computer technology, they will be better able to face the challenges in geography education. (AA)

This report focuses on and suggests ways of using instructional technology to provide better education/training delivery systems, especially the use of interactive videodiscs. The first chapter discusses the need for technology-based training; describes the computer interface components, functions, and characteristics of interactive videodisc…

Reviews three computer software programs focusing on teaching science to middle school students: (1) Encarta, a multimedia encyclopedia; (2) Gizmos and Gadgets, which allows students to explore physical science principles; and (3) BodyScope, which allows students to examine the systems of the human body. (BB)

Points out that computer software which is to be used with young children in early childhood classes must be designed and selected to reflect a sound developmental approach to learning. Also presents 10 criteria for developmentally appropriate software and reviews several developmentally appropriate computer programs for young children. (BB)