Discusses problems in creating the information retrieval mechanisms used in constructivist computer-based learning environments to support knowledge discovery: (1) subject can not always be pre-specified and the learner may not know what to seek; (2) retrieval strategies differ considerably from conventional ones, with the search including data,…

Discussion of how to teach programming skills to novice programmers focuses on the use of a program animator that uses a copies model of recursion to teach the recursive function. Various mental models are reviewed; testing the recursion animator is described; and possibilities for further research are suggested. (12 references) (LRW)

Most currently available computer-assisted language learning offerings fall into three categories: instructional, collaborative, and facilitative. Each is described and cost-effective approaches to using them are noted. (Contains two references.) (LB)

Discusses the integration of Standard General Markup Language, Hypertext Markup Language, and MARC format to parse classified analytical bibliographies. Use of the resulting electronic knowledge constructs in local library systems as maps of a specified subset of resources is discussed, and an example is included. (LRW)

Presents ideas for purposeful statistical investigations based on data from "TV Guide" that involve simulations using a spreadsheet. (MKR)

Examines the current status and short-term future of computer software development in higher education. Topics discussed include educational advantages of software; current program development techniques, including object oriented programming; and market trends, including IBM versus Macintosh and multimedia programs. (LRW)

Describes MultiTool, a new programming shell for use in developing multimedia education and training applications with microcomputer-based software and videodisk-based images. Examines the objectives of the system and its limitations, analysis and design of a courseware module, and implementation details. (LZ)

Examines family relationships in domestic comedy; participants evaluated samples of 13 programs from a selection of popular shows during the period from 1950 to 1990. Spousal and parent-child relations were evaluated. The study yielded no support for the claim that family relations have deteriorated in the television family. Three tables present…

Describes a framework called scaffolded knowledge integration and illustrates how it guided the design of two successful course enhancements in the field of computer science and engineering: the LISP Knowledge Integration Environment and the spatial reasoning environment. (101 references) (Author/MKR)

Quality control in designing and building school buildings depends on customer feedback. Outlines and graphically demonstrates the interrelationships among the input sources; the information acquired; and the three phases of predesign, construction, and completion. (MLF)

Examines the portrayal of majority and minority ethnic groups as aggressors or victims on British television, focusing on violence in drama and serials. Analysis of programs from 10 channels on 28 days reveals whites to be more heavily involved in television violence as perpetrators or victims in Britain than ethnic-minority characters. (SLD)

Explains the Resource Description Framework (RDF), an infrastructure developed under the World Wide Web Consortium that enables the encoding, exchange, and reuse of structured metadata. It is an application of Extended Markup Language (XML), which is a subset of Standard Generalized Markup Language (SGML), and helps with expressing semantics.…

Examines research on television violence and links violence to specific programs commonly watched by young children. Maintains that television violence is related to aggressive behavior, lessened sensitivity to the results of violence, and increased fear. Examines public reactions to children's educational television programs. (Author/KB)

A family literacy program used television soap operas as a starting point for investigating home and community literacy practices. Parents participated as co-researchers, comparing media portrayals of literacy events with their own everyday practices. (SK)

Discusses and describes automated instructional design (AID) tools that assist instructional designers and others in creating instructional products to improve learning. Highlights include expert systems; advisory systems; information management systems; electronic performance support systems; and authoring tools for computer-based instruction.…