This paper describes the development, design, and implementation of an educational multimedia program. The program, "Jungle Quest," combined HyperStudio and word study in a game for classroom use. Methods for word study provide a carefully sequenced teaching of phonics, vocabulary, and spelling following children's natural stages of…

This paper reports on a project where three-dimensional (3D) online gaming environments were exploited for the purpose of academic communication and learning. 3D gaming environments are media and meaning rich and can provide inexpensive solutions for educational purposes. The experiment with teaching and discussions in this setting, however,…

ToonTalk is an animated interactive world inside of which one can construct a very large range of computer programs. These programs are not constructed by typing text or arranging icons, but by taking actions in this world. Robots can be trained, birds can be given messages to deliver, and so on. This paper describes the design and preliminary…

For over the last 20 years, educators have been trying to find the best practice in using technology for student learning. Some of the most widely used applications with computers have been student learning of programming, word processing, Web research, spreadsheets, games, and Web design. The difficulty with integrating many of these activities…

Explores the use of MOO (multi-user object oriented) virtual environments in academic libraries to enhance reference services. Highlights include the development of multi-user database (MUD) technology from gaming to non-recreational settings; programming issues; collaborative MOOs; MOOs as distinguished from other types of virtual reality; audio…

Examines design and evaluation of computer-based role-playing. University students (n=41) were divided into two groups to use instructional programs with and without computer-based role-playing. Findings indicated that computer-based role-playing enhanced interpersonal skills development by employing a conversational model, offering opportunities…

This article begins with a definition of "edutainment," a hybrid genre that relies heavily on visual material, on narrative or game-like formats, and on more informal, less didactic styles of address. It examines what technology and education entail. Discussion then focuses on a critique of problems with edutainment, drawing on the…

Discusses uses of the microcomputer in elementary mathematics education. Included are: (1) drill; (2) practice; (3) problem solving; and (4) games. (YP)

Discusses characteristics of software that teachers should consider when selecting software, and reviews programs of good quality for use in elementary and/or secondary classes. Instructional design considerations and the amount of time required for a program are discussed, and games, tutorials, simulations, and drill and practice software are…

Investigated sex differences in preschoolers' computer interest and computer competence. There was little evidence for greater male interest and competence; in fact, there were no sex differences in computer competence. Boys viewed the computer as male-oriented, and girls viewed it as female-oriented. (GLR)

Compared the effects of using various computer software programs on the attending behavior of children with attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD). Found that the attention of ADHD children increased while they used software with a game format when animation was not excessive. Other factors affecting nonattending behaviors included the…

The interactions of three dyads, consisting of one student with moderate mental retardation and one nondisabled peer, were assessed while playing computer games. Results indicated that students (ages 13-14) exhibited more frequent social initiations, higher degrees of game satisfaction, and equal/higher degrees of peer satisfaction while playing…

This Digest reviews research on the demographics and effects of video game playing, discusses game rating systems, and offers recommendations for parents. The Digest begins by discussing research on the time children spend playing electronic games, which shows that younger children's game playing at home (90% of fourth-graders played at least one…

These materials are intended to be used with the computer program "Where in the U.S.A. is Carmen Sandiego?" to help students learn about U.S. geography and databases. The activities described involve students pursuing criminals throughout the United States, following clues about the location, and identifying the criminals. The activities…

Whether gender differences in performance using computer software are due to sex stereotyping or gender differentiation in the programs was investigated in two studies. An adventure game, "King and Crown," with all male characters, and a gender neutral game, "Honeybears," were played by 26 female and 26 male 11- and…