Students across disciplines struggle with sensemaking when they are faced with the need to understand and analyze massive amounts of information. This is particularly salient in the disciplines of both history and data science. Our approach to helping students build expertise with complex information leverages activity theory to think about the…

Examines current use of computers by historians and teachers of history. Attempts to predict extent of their use in next decade. Focuses on the use of four types of computer programs: word processors; spreadsheets and statistical packages; database management programs; and simulations. States that the computer is a tool historians can use to make…

Presents responses from two historians in Asia to questions about solving present problems and anticipating new directions for history education through computers. Discusses what to do about students with insufficient history backgrounds in survey courses and training students to do historical research with computers. (CFR)

Asserts that electronic media will transform how historians conduct research, teach, and present the past. Maintains that CD-ROM technology offers exciting possibilities for historical research. Provides a bibliographic essay on 16 history-oriented CD-ROM products. (CFR)

Asserts that, although pressures to publish have detracted from the quality of teaching at the college level, recent innovations in educational technology have created opportunities for instructional improvement. Describes the use of computer-assisted instruction and databases in college-level history courses. (CFR)

Describes how a 2-volume history textbook was translated into a 453 "page" CD-ROM product. Discusses how primary sources and graphics were combined with text to create an electronic textbook. Concludes that a major motivation for experimenting with this new technology was aimed at democratizing historical understanding. (CFR)