Proposes a framework for designers and teachers to research better design methodologies for distance education and to choose the most appropriate technologies and design better instructional tasks. Presents a scenario in which inherent characteristics of technologies are merged with task characteristics to create positive and powerful educational…

The design of "Probability Explorer" was inspired by: lack of research-based elementary probability software; constructivist principles for designing computer microworlds; and research on children's probabilistic reasoning. Discussion includes the inspirational and theoretical basis for design; conceptualizing the "Probability Explorer"…