We will argue that CALL can usefully be viewed as a subset of computer software engineering and can profit from adopting some of the recent progress in software development theory. The unified modelling language has become the industry standard modelling technique and the accompanying unified process is rapidly gaining acceptance. The manner in…

Computerized multistage testing (MST) designs require sets of test questions (testlets) to be assembled to meet strict, often competing criteria. Rules that govern testlet assembly may dictate the number of questions on a particular subject or may describe desirable statistical properties for the test, such as measurement precision. In an MST…

This book is about the Computer Clubhouse--the idea and the place--that inspires youth to think about themselves as competent, creative, and critical learners. So much of the social life of young people has moved online and participation in the digital public has become an essential part of youth identities. The Computer Clubhouse makes an…

With the expansion of e-learning, the understanding and evaluation of already created e-learning environments is becoming an extremely important issue. One way to dealing with the problem is analysis of case studies, i.e. already created environments, from the reuse perspective. The paper presents a general framework and model to assess UNITE, the…

Multi-User Dungeons (MUDs), are text-based virtual reality environments in which participants separated by great physical distances can communicate and collaborate in programming. Most MUDs started out as adventure games but are quickly being adapted for more "serious" endeavors. This paper presents a case study of the experiences of a…

This monthly report documents the accomplishments of the Year 2000 project in Rhode Island's public higher education. It reviews computer problems related to the Year 2000 date change, noting the basic technical solution necessary to avoid disruption to higher education, and summarizes Executive Order 99-1, issued in January 1999, requiring all…

This dissertation investigates the effects of two different grouping strategies on secondary students concerning their preparation for, and performance at, a computer programming contest. Students were divided into two groups, experimental and control, for a 3-week treatment, followed by the contest. Students in the experimental group became…

Covers research conducted within the past 10 years on the topic of using computer models and simulations to aid science instruction at the precollege level. The research is categorized into three main areas: (1) students running preprogrammed simulations; (2) students creating dynamic models using modeling environments; and (3) students using…

Discusses the Texas Instruments calculator the TI-92 and how it can be an effective tool in the mathematics classroom. Provides examples of combining the algebra capabilities of the calculator and Cabri-Geometry II with graphing, tables of values, statistics, programming, and a simple text editor to enhance mathematics instruction. (DDR)

Considers how computing and composition combine for a new form of interdisciplinary learning and intramural cooperation. Offers a description of the analogous processes of problem solving and programming in an introductory computer science course and the writing process typically used in introductory English composition courses. (Author/LRW)

Using a computerized logic course employing the Carnegie Mellon Proof Tutor problem-solving environment, crucial features of computer environments were isolated and relative pedagogical effectiveness was assessed. Students used computerized environments to construct proofs and were presented with identical course materials on sentential logic. The…

Intermediate level academically talented students learn essential elements of computer programming by working with robots at enrichment workshops at Dwight-Englewood School in Englewood, New Jersey. The children combine creative thinking and problem-solving skills to program the robots' microcomputers to perform a variety of movements. (JDD)

Discusses the reasons for careful evaluation of students' programs by a skilled programmer. Suggests that grades for programs must be partly based on quality factors such as clarity, organization, conciseness, and maintainability. (ASK)

To reduce attrition in an entry-level programming class, students who performed poorly on the first exam were matched with interested alumni, who could only communicate with their mentorees by e-mail, mail, or phone. The program produced a significant reduction in overall course attrition and for the at-risk students. (Author/AEF)

Outlines how a course in robotics can be taught at the undergraduate level with specific experiments that can be used for incremental learning in programming a mobile robot or by simulating the actions of a robot. Contains 14 references. (Author/ASK)