Discussion of acceptable use policies that elementary and secondary schools develop to address issues related to use of the Internet focuses on how to deal with accessing and transmitting information inappropriate to the school setting, and how to maintain the efficient operation of the network. (LRW)

Describes a three-day technology academy that focused on topics and technologies for immediate use by teachers. Topics include location, budget (with a chart breaking down all costs), enrollment, and sessions held. A sidebar offers tips for running a technology academy. (JKP)

Successful technology training for teachers begins with careful design of a staff development program, and must involve teachers in decision making. Time, access, and on-site support are critical for success, as are clear and relevant objectives for lesson plans, materials, and curriculum guides. (JKP)

Presents a synopsis of guidelines on the acceptable use of copyrighted multimedia materials in educational presentations. Outlines four characteristics of fair use. Discusses issues of retention and access, quality limits, number of copies that can be made, and other restrictions. A sidebar includes guidelines to remember when creating multimedia…

Presents insights of what does and doesn't work in school library local area network (LAN) printing in terms of five "myths": (1) "You need a network to share a printer;" (2) "Printing is much faster on a network;" (3) "All printers are created equal;" (4) "If one is good, two are better;" (5) "I'll never learn." (AEF)

Emphasizes that for the success of information technology (IT) implementation, teachers must have the information on how to use the technology before, during and after purchase. Discusses software evaluation; knowledge of expertise preconditions; onsite and remotely accessed IT support structures; and deployment, integration, and utilization. (AEF)

Provides guidance for turning the library media center into a place where students can use multimedia tools for research, authoring, and publishing. Sidebars include: a multimedia club sample student contract, a component list for a multimedia workstation starter kit, a checklist for planning and assembling mini-centers, and a sample multimedia…

Outlines how Compact Disc-interactive (CD-i)--software that looks like a CD-ROM but operates independently using a television set--can be used in elementary, secondary, and vocational education. Discusses the cost effectiveness of CD-i and compares costs and operational issues with CD-ROM. Describes special features of one CD-i program,…

Argues the need for school districts to provide a number of academically prepared employees to help teachers implement digital technology or to encourage use of technological resources. Presents options for large and small school districts; discusses employee communication and job responsibilities. Describes a program in Washington state where…

Describes instructional uses of Microsoft PowerPoint software as demonstrated in a summer workshop for educators. Notes three uses: open house-type presentations, tutorials, and student-produced projects. Discusses how PowerPoint was used to present general information about the school and gives examples of uses in science and music history…

Discusses how to combat techno-stress, based on experiences of Archbishop Wood High School, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Addresses faculty training; selecting and purchasing technology; students as sources of technology maintenance; and senior citizen volunteers as lab supervisors. (AEF)

Discusses how to use video in classroom projects. Highlights include: mastering simple camera work; using video as a teaching tool for demonstration, modeling, and student feedback; electronic publishing; and steps in pre- and post-production. Sidebars outline six reasons for using multimedia in the classroom, and solutions for dealing with…

Provides information on CD-ROM resources about animals, which can help teachers decide which products best fit their educational objectives and the interests and needs of students. Highlights include quantity and quality, grade or age appropriateness, and curriculum connections. A table provides detailed information on six products. (AEF)

Presents advanced rubrics to help schools measure the effectiveness of their teacher training efforts and to guide teachers on their own learning paths. Highlights include instructional software use, information literacy skills, modification of instructional delivery, assessment of student performance, individualization of the educational program,…

Discusses the need to create a learning environment in the computer lab that encourages students to "dabble." Benefits include increased student motivation, help for special needs students, and a decrease in truancy. Presents answers to possible objections to this form of student-directed learning and provides tips for running a lab efficiently.…