Recounts pivotal events in the development of the modern computer and its role in education. Suggests that rather than solely focusing on networked, personal computers, the future of educational technology may lie in the use of specialized, economical computing devices built around open software solutions. (Author/LRW)

Presents arguments for and against computerized integrated learning systems. Despite developments in problem-solving exercises, illustrated stories, and simulations, integrated systems offer fewer learning opportunities than the spreadsheets, word processors, and multimedia applications typical of independent software. Tips are provided for…

A new technological phenomenon known as "hypermedia" or "interactive multimedia" allows the learner to be in control and to access a variety of media with a computer. Advances in information storage technology have placed libraries of documents, sounds, and video and graphic images on laser discs. (MLF)

Approximately 435,000 personal computers (roughly 10% of all computers in K-12 education) are used for administrative work. Administrators find that four applications are proliferating: organizing information with database software; communicating with electronic mail and bulletin boards; enhancing presentations with graphics or multimedia…

Shows how computer technology can be used to enhance teaching in a variety of ways, from software and simulations to networking and telecommunications. (SR)

Describes ED's Oasis, a multifunction Web site funded by the AT&T Foundation, through the AT&T Learning Network program, and developed by a team of educators to help teachers use the Internet with their students. Examples are given of various possible uses, including designing interdisciplinary units. (LRW)

Describes the conception of pedagogical software aimed at explaining the fundamental notions of configuration and conformation of biological molecules using monosaccharides as a model. (CCM)

Presents research on gender and attitudes toward technology. Describes the history of computer technology, noting its influence on the language we use; the design of software; and computer usage in schools. Discusses how much gender bias pervades computer technology and makes it less friendly for girls. (Contains 14 references.) (ASK)

The best learning potential lies in adapting educational software to students' needs and learning styles. Few programs provide an adaptive learning environment. Educators should realize that information is not instruction, simplicity matters, graphics should enhance content, navigational designs should work intuitively, and interactions should…

Points out the lack of microscopic images of wine-related microbes. Uses a digital camera during a wine microbiology laboratory to capture student-generated microscope images. Discusses the advantages of using a digital camera in a teaching lab. (YDS)

Describes a study that developed a software package for illustrating drainage, evapotranspiration, and crop yield as influenced by water conditions. The software is a tool for depicting water's influence on crop production in western Kansas. (DDR)

This status report on instructional software accessibility for individuals with disabilities notes current initiatives to further instructional technology accessibility and reports on a survey of 19 major companies producing instructional software. Only two responses reflected awareness of accessibility considerations and all the remaining…

Investigates the differences of student performance between computerized and paper-and-pen multiple-choice tests and assesses the extent and effect of "computer anxiety." Uses the LXR.TEST 5.1 software for computerized tests and suggests that computer-based assessment could be used with confidence for the purposes of ranking students, but care…

The notion of problem-based physics laboratories enhanced by computer technology has been coined "studio physics" (Wilson, 1994) and has been practised at various institutions for some time (Cummings, Marx, Thornton, & Kuhl, 1999; Williams, MacLatchy, Backman, & Retson, 1997). In recent years, new technology tools have been available to supplement…

Many teachers look for a creative and engaging way to bring physical science topics of force and motion to life for their students. In this project, fourth-grade students weren't "forced" to investigate physical science topics--they were thrilled to! With the help of various technology tools--digital cameras, the Internet, computers, and…