Describes the hands-on learning approach and materials developed by TERC (formerly Technology Education Research Centers) for teaching science and mathematics to elementary and secondary students, including software for microcomputer-based labs, networked learning, and data analysis; teacher training workshops and curriculum development tools; and…

Discussion of elementary school mathematics instruction focuses on computer graphing programs to teach subtraction that use pictorial representations as well as graphs. Classroom graphing activities for first graders are described, and evaluations of student progress based on pre- and posttests are discussed. (two references) (LRW)

Reports on a study of college student preferences for learning from computer-based instruction screen designs representing four levels of screen density varied by the type of stimulus material and number of frames presented from a single lesson. The implications of the results for practice and research on computer screen design are discussed. (30…

This response to a previously published article on the replaceability of media and instructional methods focuses on a study that uses a chemistry multimedia software package to examine cognitive processes in which learners interact with instructional designs and use media and methods to construct understanding. (nine references) (LRW)

A study compared the effectiveness of traditional and computer-simulation methods for teaching pharmacy financial management in continuing education. Retention of material was similar for the groups (n=26 and n=24 students, respectively), and similar amounts of time spent on financial management were found in a followup. Both methods were found…

Two articles evaluate the impact of new transmission and information technologies on education: "Technology and Education--Friend or Foe?" (Pelton) and "Third Generation Distance Education: The Challenge of New Technology" (Bates). (SK)

Acknowledging that students learning a second language need opportunities for extended spoken and written interactions with native speakers, this paper describes instructional computer networking that links grade 12 Anglophone students of French in Toronto with native French-speaking peers in Montreal. Focus is on writing skills. (25 references)…

Describes a Post-Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) course in the United Kingdom that was offered to develop teachers' computer use and skills. Results of four questionnaires that evaluated skills before the course and after one year of teaching are discussed, and requirements for information technology skills are examined. (five references)…

Presents five principles for audio-conference course design and implementation: (1) make learning activities detailed yet flexible; (2) ensure collaboration among students, professors, and librarians; (3) define responsibilities for progress and success at the outset of the course; (4) base decisions to use technologies on ease of use; and (5)…

The Magazine and Journal Instructional Kit (MAJIK/1) is a HyperCard program delivering basic individualized library instruction. Using a technique derived from naturalistic inquiry, the program's formative evaluation was conducted at the University of Maryland, College Park, with 28 upperclassmen as subjects. They reported little difficulty with…

Describes the Knowledge Gateway Project at Wenatchee (Washington) High School, which combines computer technology with a problem-solving approach to teach communication and information processing skills to at-risk students. Networked Macintosh workstations are described; and the use of electronic mail to communicate both within a local area…

Discusses evaluation criteria for selecting courseware that teaches basic concepts appropriate for preschool and early elementary students. Reviews of the software manual, the courseware itself, and reviews by students are suggested. Other areas of concern that are addressed include instructional quality, production quality, flexibility, and cost.…

Described is a method of evaluating student chemistry laboratory reports using electronic reporting from locally developed macros. Examples of the input template, the grade report template, and input and grading programs are given. Results of a survey of students and teachers evaluating the program are reported. (MDH)

Whether software-based mediated instruction reduces the incidence of misconceptions and errors by children learning the LOGO computer language was studied with 24 fourth and 46 second graders. Mediated instruction reduced errors and misconceptions compared to those detected in prior studies. The roles of working memory and true misunderstandings…

The infrastructure created by fusing computing and communications technologies is described. The effect of this infrastructure on the economy and society of the United States is discussed. The importance of knowing the value and role of information is emphasized. (KR)