Computer mediated communication tools enable today's distance learners to engage in collaborative problem solving, threaded discussions, and peer tutoring through asynchronous distance learning environments. This paper suggests that these are best accomplished by establishing virtual learning communities, which break down traditional…

This study evaluates the use of graphing calculators in the science classroom within the context of a collaborative action research approach. A class of diversified middle-class students (n=650) defined by teachers and administrators as "above average" were studied. Initially, information was gathered on current classroom management techniques as…

This booklet discusses issues to consider when using instructional media in higher education. Section 1 highlights quality control, discussing such key questions as how accountability and responsibility for creating instruction are determined and what the faculty's role is in determining how courses are to be adapted and delivered. Section 2…

This paper reports on a study of issues teacher educators face as they attempt to integrate technology into their instructional program: (1) the support they receive for use of technology, (2) their expectations of students to use technology, (3) their personal use of technology, (4) their knowledge of national, state, and local technology…

Compares classroom environment in a group which used multimodal computer-based activities with that of a control group which used traditional science instruction strategies. Results indicate that for most climate dimensions, students in the experimental group perceived their classroom in a more positive light than did students in the control…

Investigated the impact of integrated proofreading strategy training, which combined a computer-based spelling checker and student strategies, on the proofreading of three secondary students with learning disabilities. Students showed an increase in strategy use and percentage of spelling errors corrected on controlled proofreading materials and…

Surveyed preservice teachers regarding important factors in predicting their professional uses of technology and having K-12 students use technology in the classroom. Results found that setting high expectations for designing and delivering instruction using technology was effective in getting student teachers to use technology during clinical…

A U.S. Department of Education grant helped Alabama State University's education students learn to integrate technology in the classroom. Developed by a consortium involving the university, two high schools, and an elementary school (which served predominantly minority students), the grant provided training and gave participants take-home laptop…

A review of the role of prior knowledge, metacognition, and intentionality in learning culminates in an example of how knowledge building--the community construction of new knowledge through theory construction and revision--works in a Canadian elementary science class. Comparing theories on the "public forum" of networked software…

Describes teacher education courses that can serve as models for integrating technology into preservice education. Stresses the importance of learning about technology with technology, an approach that has been integrated into preservice social studies methods classes at the University of New Mexico. Discusses computer discourse and classroom…

Examined the behavior of 203 secondary school business education teachers with reference to selected social system factors, relative to their adoption of microcomputers for delivering instruction. Findings suggest that the individual's attitude, the characteristics of the innovation, and the critical threshold mark influence microcomputer adoption…

Examined the use of online discussion as a medium for learning in an elementary teacher education program. As part of an Education Studies course, students engaged in discussions of issues related to technology and equity in schools. Through the online activity, distinctive sets of writing practices were created, which enabled students to make…

The article addresses use of microcomputer-based word processing for students with writing disabilities. The research is briefly reviewed, and four guidelines for choosing word processing software are offered, as are principles for teaching keyboarding. (DB)

Assesses students' skills and attitudes toward teaching statistics with and without computer-assisted statistical analysis. Classifies students according to gender, grade point average, and mathematics competency. Analyses showed computer-assisted group had significantly more favorable attitudes toward statistics. (Author/NL)

Several models for preparing preservice and inservice teachers to use microcomputers in science teaching are described. A summary of research on the topic is included. A list of competencies needed by teachers to use microcomputers in teaching is provided. Recommendations for implementing computers in teacher education are suggested. (CW)