Discusses the implementation and use of computer-assisted learning in a traditional university physics course at Keele University (England), its effect on traditional course structure, and the effective use of academic staff time. Highlights SToMP (Software Teaching of Modular Physics), based on distance learning principles that permit self-paced…

This theme issue on communication includes annotated listings of Web sites, CD-ROM and computer software, videos, books, and professional resources that deal with various methods of communication. Sidebars discuss mythology, photojournalism, sharing ideas on the Web, and songs of protest. Suggestions for class activities are also included. (LRW)

Describes MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) technology and music education; provides information on conducting a MIDI workshop for all ages; and offers guidelines for creating a MIDI workstation for the classroom. Hardware and software vendor contact information is provided. (PEN)

A group of entrepreneurs is promoting an ambitious commercial venture to sell electronic books to university libraries. The library can buy an electronic copy of the book for the print version's price; provide users access through special formatting and software, allowing users to highlight and annotate but not print; and restrict access to one…

Defines authentic technology and describes how it can be developed and tested. Proposes collaboration among practitioners, technologists, scientists, craftspeople, and artists to develop authentic educational technologies. Offers three examples of current social and educational technologies. (AEF)

Describes book ordering procedures at a German pharmaceutical library using the Electronic Data Interchange for Administration, Commerce and Transport (EDIFACT) guidelines developed by the United Nations. Topics include advantages for libraries and for the book trade, changes needed in software, productivity gains, and EDIFACT versus the Internet.…

Discusses problems for information professionals arising from traditional copyright legislation, as well as from the proposed Uniform Commercial Code 2B on information licensing. Highlights include responsibility of information consumers; World Wide Web terms and conditions, including those of newspapers and publishers; privacy issues; database…

Describes the results of a survey of public libraries that was conducted to identify digital technology projects. Highlights include kinds of collections being digitized (primarily photographs); costs; hardware and software used; experience levels of personnel; reasons for digitizing, including providing access to fragile materials; and technology…

Discussion of the need for new teaching practices and teacher training to support the integration of information and communication technology focuses on national programs in Portugal. Discusses the production of educational software, production of information for the World Wide Web, and technology-skills stages for teacher training. (LRW)

Describes Subarashii, an experimental computer-based interactive spoken-language education system designed to understand what a student is saying in Japanese and respond in a meaningful way in spoken Japanese. Implementation of a preprototype version of the Subarashii system identified strengths and limitations of continuous speech recognition…

Discusses designers' need to design educational software for subversive use, recognizing that users fit the use of technology-based environments into contextually tuned "situated" learning environments. In this sense, good design is volatile design, or design which changes with contextual use. These ideas are illustrated with reference to a range…

Undertakes a study to evaluate second-language learning with a videodisc named "Vi-Conte." Presents the research methodology as well as analyses of 78 learners' navigational patterns, strategies, gains in vocabulary items, changes in attitude, and global evaluation of the videodisc. Makes suggestions for the development of…

Examines the effects of program mode (i.e., a lean program version containing a basic amount of learner practice versus a full mode containing expanded practice) and learner preference (matched or unmatched) for amount of practice on the achievement, time-in-program, and attitudes of university undergraduate students. Students preferred the lean…

Discusses online course development based on the design of courses at Arizona State University that were delivered via the World Wide Web and used computer conferencing software. Discusses the audience, learner characteristics, content, goals, instructional strategies, feedback, interaction, and evaluation. Contains 13 references (LRW)

The WEBrary(R) databases at the Morton Grove Public Library (Illinois) provide patron-accessible searchable databases, easily available over the library's Web site. Database offerings include the locally maintained Song Collection Index, Obituary Index, Continuations Listings, On-Order files, topical and personalized New Acquisitions files, and…