Examines how emerging technologies may reshape both face-to-face and distance education. Delineates a three-part conceptual framework (knowledge webs, virtual communities, and shared synthetic environments) for understanding the new types of instructional messages that enable distributed learning. (Author/AEF)

To evaluate the effectiveness of a hypermedia learning package about the Middle Ages, two groups of seventh graders completed either instructional worksheets with a book, or a hypermedia package. No differences were found between the two groups in the number of questions completed, questions answered correctly, interest in material, or task…

Maintains that the lecture method in history can still function as an effective means of instruction if approached with a critical perspective. Outlines creative and engaging approaches for the history lecture and specific suggestions for organization, delivery, and content coverage. (MJP)

Describes how a computerized environment supplemented traditional undergraduate courses in English literature and composition at the University of Florida, and was developed with a grant from IBM. Highlights include the use of MOO (multi-user, object-oriented) space; student assignments; the client-server setting; and student and teacher…

Because the graphic industry demands graduates with computer skills, art students want college programs that include complex computer technologies. However, students can produce good computer art only if they have mastered traditional drawing and design skills. Discusses designing an art curriculum including both technology and traditional course…

Online education (OLE) provides the flexibility and efficiency of computer-assisted instruction as well as the individual attention of instructor-guided instruction. Describes the development, advantages, and types of OLE; and argues that the change of communication channels and methods in OLE subsequently change the requirements for instructional…

This study examined the views of 70 undergraduate and graduate students exposed to multimedia projections in a classroom. It found that students supported the integration of animation, music, and voice; perceived screens to be better organized and clearer than traditional classroom settings; and were more interested in the material presented in…

Discusses the need for new student evaluation methods that are applicable to online distance learning in higher education. Highlights include challenges faced in online learning as compared to traditional classroom instruction; types of online assessment strategies and examples of activities, including performance assessments, virtual discussions,…

Discusses teachers' attitudes toward changes in education from traditional classrooms to Internet-based activities. Topics include the effect of reform movements, future needs, support needed for teachers, possibilities for school reform, counterinstance, systemic organizational change, and the integration of educational technology. (LRW)

Compares results of giving undergraduate students actual instructor feedback, computer-simulated instructor feedback, or no feedback. There were advantages to giving actual instructor-supplied feedback for exam performance, in-class responsiveness, and attitudes toward the instructor and other students. (JMV)

Evaluates the effectiveness of multimedia instruction by comparing student performance in two computer science classes at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. One class was taught using multimedia instruction and the other was taught using traditional instruction. Results suggest that multimedia courseware enhances computer science instruction and…

Reviews traditional approaches to learning and education, and examines the use of cognitive apprenticeship as an improved approach. Explores and evaluates the application of cognitive apprenticeship to the teaching of the programming language Smalltalk in a multimedia-based interactive learning environment. Sample computer screens depicting…

Reports research on cooperative learning strategies used in a college computer skills lab course and compares learning performance and retention of students taught via cooperative teams or traditional individual learning. Results show that both performance and retention were significantly improved with the use of cooperative learning. (Author/JMV)

Argues that traditional classroom education methods do not fit the museum setting, and in support describes a Montreal study examining psychological reactions of adults observing museum exhibits. Suggests that researchers rethink basic principles for the use of museums in adult basic education. (84 citations) (MAB)

Following a discussion of the research-to-support-theory (RTST) model and problems with its use in research on computer-based instruction, the instructional development (ID) model is proposed. Definition, design, development, and dissemination stages of the ID model are described. Advantages of this model, particularly the inclusion of expert…