The use of computer graphics as visual aids to lecture-style university instruction is discussed briefly. It is contended that the following three factors inhibit the application of computers as visual aids: (1) the costs of providing sufficient numbers of monitors and large enough monitors to allow appropriate visual access by students are…

One of the objectives of Project TACT is to determine the potential of a gamut of educational media. The working papers in this set have a basis in pictorial information produced through computer graphics. These papers are intended to serve as a basis for sharpening questions, delineating the context within which the answers might be significant,…

Two computer programs for computer-assisted performance training were developed to give the students the opportunity for concentrated practice of troubleshooting and procedural tasks in naval electronics. In contrast to the usual approach taken in computer-assisted instruction (CAI), these programs simulate essential aspects of devices and tasks…

An important category of SMET digital library content will be highly interactive, explorable microworlds for teaching science, mathematics, and engineering concepts. Such environments have proved to be extraordinarily time-consuming and difficult to produce, while threatening the goals of widespread creation and use. One proposed solution for…

Originally part of a symposium on educational media for the deaf, an overview of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) at the California School for the Deaf (Berkeley) is provided. Achievements and objectives of the program, such as individualization of instruction and increased student interest in CAI, are discussed. (PHR)

Presents responses of leaders from six simulation companies about challenges and opportunities of soft-skills simulations in e-learning. Discussion includes: evaluation metrics; role of subject matter experts in developing simulations; video versus computer graphics; technology needed to run simulations; technology breakthroughs; pricing;…

The paper explores changes in technology that have implications for the teaching and learning of school mathematics. To this end, it examines aspects of interactive mathematical textbooks; specifically it analyzes functions authors may intend to be carried out by embedded interactive diagrams. The paper analyzes theoretical as well as practical…

Modern information technology and computer science curricula employ a variety of graphical tools and development environments to facilitate student learning of introductory programming concepts and techniques. While the provision of interactive features and the use of visualization can enhance students' understanding and assist them in grasping…

This paper describes a National Science Foundation-sponsored project at Louisiana Technological University to develop computer-based laboratories for "hands-on" introductions to major topics of computer science. The underlying strategy is to develop structured laboratory environments that present abstract concepts through the use of…

Described is the notion of multiple alternative representations of mathematical reasoning, particularly as they relate to algebraic notation and the potential of computers to change representations. Features of a desirable notation for algebraic problem solving are described. This is followed by a description of the RAND Corporation's intelligent…

During the first 12 weeks of an applied calculus course, two classes of college students studied calculus concepts using graphical and symbol-manipulation computer programs to perform routine manipulations. Three weeks were spent on skill development. Students showed better understanding of concepts and performed almost as well on routine skills.…

Describes the programs and modifications needed to do word processing using foreign language characters. One such program, Screenwriter, uses soft character sets -- character sets which can be designed by the program user. This program has a word processing power combined with a foreign language capability that would allow any person to work with…

This manual provides teachers, with very little or no technology experience, with a step-by-step guide for developing the necessary skills for creating a class Web Page. The first part of the manual is devoted to the thought processes preceding the actual creation of the Web Page. These include looking at other Web Pages, deciding what should be…

With computers, tangible tools are represented by the hardware (e.g., the central processing unit, scanners, and video display unit), while intangible tools are represented by the software. There is a special category of computer-based software tools (CBSTs) that have the potential to mediate cognitive processes--computer-based cognitive tools…

Discusses the work and planning requisite to the success of an ambitious, developmental, computer-assisted instruction project. (JF)