This article describes an extended collaboration between a development team and an evaluation team working with GenScope, an open-ended exploratory software tool. In some respects, this was a routine evaluation, documenting substantial gains (of roughly 1 SD) in genetics reasoning ability in all but 1 of 17 classes, despite challenges presented by…

The purpose of this paper is to describe the function of English articles in a functional-pragmatic perspective, to clarify how the functions of the articles are reflected in the discourse, and to give some pedagogical implications for teaching English as a foreign language (EFL). Deixis is a grammatical category involving reference to…

A comprehensive evaluation of a hypertext model for teaching process writing at the junior high and high school level was conducted over an 8-week period. The purpose of the study was to determine how two teachers and three different age groups of students used and reacted to the model, specifically, its embedded design features of model stories,…

A dilemma in designing computer simulations for instruction is how to provide a challenging exploratory environment and yet provide sufficient support so that students do not become lost. Directive support such as corrective feedback may detract from the exploratory quality of a simulation. Two methods of non-directive support are: (1) simplifying…

Following an introductory section that provides a rationale for using computers in workplace literacy classes, this guide reviews six computer programs and provides activities that teachers can use with the programs in teaching workplace literacy classes. The six computer programs reviewed are as follows: "Grammar Games,""Spell It 3,""The Way…

To make effective use of a two-way interactive distance education system, classroom design should be a primary consideration. A properly designed classroom will enhance content objectives and increase acceptance of this type of instructional delivery. This paper describes key considerations for optimal design. Construction considerations include…

This paper discusses some of the potential benefits and hazards that virtual reality holds for exceptional children in the special education system. Topics addressed include (1) applications of virtual reality, including developing academic skills via cyberspace, vocational training, and social learning in cyberspace; (2) telepresence and distance…

A person with a learning disability usually has average or above average intelligence, but has difficulty taking in, remembering, or expressing information. Learning disabilities can involve visual processing speed, short-term memory processing, fluid reasoning, and long-term memory retrieval. These disorders are intrinsic to the individual and…

Training in decision-making skills directly contributes to the combat readiness of Battle Staff Officers. More affordable, accessible, and effective training technologies are required to supplement the Command Post Exercises currently in use. This is the final report for a 3-year research and development (R&D) effort aimed toward development…

Over the past seven years, Northern Arizona University (NAU) has implemented NAUnet, a professional-broadcast-quality, two-way audio, two-way video instructional television (IITV) system. The IITV system provides a face-to-face environment where students and faculty can see and hear each other and engage in discussion. Recently, several courses…

A survey was conducted of 205 information systems departments to determine information about existing distance education programs, plans for future distance education programs, faculty selection and training, and advantages and disadvantages of distance education. Of the questionnaires returned by 46 information systems departments, only 12 were…

An ethnographic, multiple case study research design was used to examine factors that support a successful high school distance education program. Three classrooms from different high schools, each taking the same nationally-offered distance education physics course during the 1994-95 school year, participated. The course was delivered live, via…

This guide deals with the use of computer technology with students who have moderate cognitive abilities. It defines moderate mental retardation and notes the decreasing incidence of mental retardation. It describes characteristics of students with moderate cognitive abilities and examines the role of technology in the educational program of these…

Current computerized electronic technology is making possible, not only the broad and rapid distribution of information, but also its manipulation, analysis, synthesis, and recombination. The shift from print to a combination of visual and oral expression is being propelled by the mass media, and visual literacy is both a concept and an…

Instructional gaming, as distinguished from simulation, is defined as any overt instructional or learning format that involves competition and is rule-guided. The literature review identifies five categories of articles on instructional gaming: (1) research, (2) theory, (3) reviews, (4) discussion, and (5) development. Games have been found to…