Provides a rationale for using an oral mode of production as a means of composing for individuals with learning disabilities. Supporting research on the use of dictation and studies of both simulated and existing speech-recognition systems with this population are reported. Recommendations are offered for teachers who plan to use dictation or…

Provides librarians who are responsible for implementing a new school library with an overview of the process. Topics include ordering circulating and reference books; computer hardware and software; supplies and other miscellaneous items, including other media formats such as videotapes; furniture and shelving; and a time line for planning. (LRW)

Introduces a computer-assisted language-learning system called L2tutor that is designed to provide an immersion experience to travelers before they leave on a trip to a country where a different language is spoken. The learner takes part in a fully mixed-initiative dialog with the system to gain fluency and hone vocabulary and grammatical skills.…

Recent interest in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) has been accompanied by an expansion in the demand for CALL centers. The planning and creation of these facilities present educators and administrators with a unique set of challenges. This article highlights these factors and illustrates how a CALL center can be successfully…

Fifteen developments in technology that have laid the foundation for the current information-technology environment on college and university campuses are listed. They include both specific technological innovations and broader trends that make use of several technologies. (MSE)

Reports on a comparative study in the United Kingdom of how a group of children with emotional and behavioral difficulties and children who attend a mainstream school use the computer application, Bubble Dialogue, to express themselves. Discusses strategies the children used to resolve interpersonal conflicts and implications of results. (AEF)

The GenTechnique project at Washington State University uses a networked learning environment for molecular genetics learning. The project is developing courseware featuring animation, hyper-link controls, and interactive self-assessment exercises focusing on fundamental concepts. The first pilot course featured a Web-based module on DNA…

This article shows how even preschool children with significant physical disabilities can use the computer independently to learn social skills if given the correct positioning, appropriate computer peripherals and software, grouping, and instructional strategies. A continuum of computer peripheral adaptation is provided, along with a list of…

This article describes Technology Option for At-Risk Readers (TOARR), a program that uses technology to help students with reading difficulties. The program uses specialized reading software plus a host of motivating reading activities to encourage reading. Steps in developing the TOARR needs assessment and implementing the program are discussed.…

Discusses the use of technology in training and higher education. Considers current technologies; establishing a vision before implementing technology; needs assessment; hardware and software considerations; facility limitations; design considerations; curriculum support; and student and instructor needs. (LRW)

Presents a lesson plan for grade 5 social studies in which small groups of students use computers and three software programs to develop geography skills (latitude, longitude, compass reading, plotting courses on maps), create their own continents, and keep a five-day journal of exploration. Includes examples of student work. (PEN)

Presents activities on estimation, scaling, area of nonstandard shapes, algebraic thinking, and real-life situations using the United States of America. These activities make it possible to integrate mathematics and social studies. Uses technology by employing geometry software packages such as The Geometer's Sketchpad, Cabri, and Geometric…

Investigates strategies elementary school children use to conceptualize materials in computer-based learning environments. Results show that 80% of the time students had attention focused on the learning material and gained an elevated level of awareness; the implication to instructional design is that courseware stimulates learning motivation if…

Various methods for retrieving chemical structure information on the World Wide Web are discussed. Although graphical plug-in programs provide more search capabilities, users first have to obtain a copy of the programs. Tripos's WebSketch and ACD Interactive Lab adopt a different approach; using JAVA applets, users create and display a structure…

Describes experiences in providing real-time online reference services to users with remote Web access at the Bowling Green State University library. Discusses the decision making process first used to select HumanClick software to communicate via chat; and the selection of a fee-based customer service product, Virtual Reference Desk. (LRW)