Discusses searching from remote workstations by novice undergraduate users based on experiences at Furman University (South Carolina). Highlights include CD-ROM databases versus online searching, including costs; electronic resources at Furman University, including a special lab for biology and chemistry majors; front-end search aids; and software…

Describes the evaluation of a library orientation program for graduate students at Utah State University using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) software. Results are reported that indicate the need to focus on general information access skills rather than specific subject areas. (Contains nine references.) (LRW)

Thirteen 8- to 10-year-old students participated in a Lego-LOGO learning environment, coupling Lego building-block activities with Logo computer programming, to evaluate whether this learning environment was conducive to metacognitive awareness and cooperation. Results suggested positive cognitive and affective outcomes, especially for the younger…

Asserts that introducing educational technology into the K-12 curriculum is a major trend. Presents a set of questions that educators should answer as they increase the use of technology in the classroom. Maintains educators need to resist the temptation to use technology to replace important educational activities rather than to enhance them.…

A theoretical perspective on learning based on the work of L.S. Vygotsky is used in an analysis of interventions made by 15 teachers in the computer-based activities of their 50 5- to 12-year-old students. Usefulness of the perspective is evaluated, and implications for developing computer-based activities are discussed. (SLD)

Considers the relationship of the quality of images with the needs of users of digitized manuscripts. Highlights include goals of digitization; for whom to digitize; experiences of the National Library of the Czech Republic digitizing and providing electronic access to historical documents; preparation of manuscript descriptions; usability of…

Describes the design of a prototype multiauthor multimedia document production (MAMMDP) system. Discusses the problems of finding an appropriate task analysis technique, and introduces background concepts. Examines how the system's tasks were analyzed and represented during the early stages of the design. (AEF)

Uses three computer software programs to help students develop algebraic reasoning. Programs include spreadsheets, Logo programming language, and Teasers by Tobbs. (ASK)

Explains how the writing process approach utilizing hypermedia software can help non-native speakers develop an awareness of English-language composition structures. Discusses the pedagogical basis for the writing process, as well as the benefits computers and specialized software can bring to the language classroom. (Author/VWL)

Examines the varied factors involved in providing Internet access in K-12 education, including expense, computer installation and maintenance, and security, and explores how the network computer could be useful in this context. Operating systems and servers are discussed. (MSE)

Explains eXtensible Markup Language (XML) and describes how Dow Jones Interactive is using it to improve the news-gathering and dissemination process through intranets and the World Wide Web. Discusses benefits of using XML, the relationship to HyperText Markup Language (HTML), lack of available software tools and industry support, and future…

Describes a seminar at Brown University where undergraduate students design and develop software for K-12 schools based on proposals of teachers in and around Providence (Rhode Island). Discusses seminar goals, working with schools, division of labor between teachers and seminar students, creating the software, student benefits, and using…

Examines how a high-tech service-support organization shifted from print to online documentation. Illustrates trade-offs critical to productivity and publications management that can be involved in moving to online documentation in both CD-ROM and Web media. Shows that planning, skepticism about tools, and usability assessment can be critical to…

Schools should anticipate unavoidable problems when implementing a technology plan, project, or program. Technology programs should be built around curricular needs, not gurus. Programs are costly, software remains problematic, and (large) size matters. Blending laptops and desktops is feasible. Faculty consensus helps, and upgrades are…

In San Antonio, four schools are using the kindergarten level of the computer-based Waterford Early Reading Program to determine whether well-designed educational technology can bridge the gap between successful and disadvantaged schools. New technology and an old-fashioned buddy system are infusing classrooms with effective, dynamic teaching…