This response to Rachel Muehrer, Jennifer Jenson, Jeremy Friedberg and Nicole Husain's paper, "Challenges and opportunities: Using a science-based video game in secondary school settings," explores the issues encountered while a science-based video game is introduced in secondary school settings. It highlights the importance of the context, the…

This paper is a response to "Challenges and Opportunities: Using a science-based video game in secondary school settings" by Rachel Muehrer, Jennifer Jenson, Jeremy Friedberg, and Nicole Husain. The article highlights two critical areas that I argue require more research in the studies of video games in education. The first area focuses on the…

Encourages the use of microcomputers in the science classroom, providing information on uses (e.g., simulation and modeling, drill and practice programs, interface with lab equipment, conceptual data analysis, database management, and word processing), logistics, equipment, and software. (DMM)

This paper presents the theoretical background for using computer-mediated communication to link children and scientists in a multiple electronic zone of proximal development. It is postulated that students will be able to perform at higher cognitive levels as a result of this increased interment contact with many adults. (LZ)

This paper examines the use of the microcomputer as a mediating device, and explores its influence on curriculum. The relationship of a media device to subject matter and the nature of a subject are examined, and possible uses of the computer in science and social studies are analyzed to illustrate this principle. Three main points are emphasized…

Energy Search, Geography Search, Geology Search, Archeology Search, and Community Search are microcomputer software games, usable in grades five to nine, which provide educational simulations, numbers and situational choices, and calculation of implications of decisions. The series is a pathfinder usable by entire class and requiring only one…

The introduction of informatics in the teaching of natural science is discussed with particular reference to the generally adopted utilization of the computer as a laboratory instrument. (Author)

Vocabulary development is essential for a student to become a good reader. By learning new words in terms of meaning and use, the student can increase his/her listening, speaking, reading, and writing vocabularies. A student may increase vocabulary development when communicating informally with others or formally within a classroom setting. This…

Describes the Space Shuttle Commander software package, which utilizes the dynaturtle microworld to teach elementary and middle school students about Newton's laws of motion. Design considerations for computer-based microworlds that represent a compromise between the philosophies of constructivism and direct instruction are presented. (91…

Criticizes an article by Browning and Lehman (1988) for (1) using "gene" instead of allele, (2) misusing the word "misconception," and (3) the possible influences of the computer environment on the results of the study. (PR)

Authors respond to criticisms by Smith in the same issue and defend their use of the term "gene" and "misconception." Authors indicate that they did not believe that the use of computers significantly skewed their data concerning student errors. (PR)

Discusses advantages of using computer-assisted instruction in a college general chemistry course. Advantages include using programs which generate random equations with double arrows (equilibrium systems) or generate alkane structural formula, asking for the correct IUPAC name of the structure. (Author/JN)

This study proposes a model for training inservice science teachers to teach with electronic spreadsheets. A case study in which this model was implemented by 16 biology teachers during a training period and 3 teachers during an induction period is described. (LZ)

Literature on computer-based instruction shows student performance improves with this method, although students spend less time studying. It is recommended that future research be designed to better detect the influence of computer-based instruction and that greater attention be given to methodological issues like test construction and research…

Provides a summary of essential characteristics of the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) and Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations (PLATO) educational computer system. Considers future of the computer based education which effectively combines PSI with computer assisted instruction. Discusses current status and future use of…