Presents a checklist for evaluating commercially available mapping software. Analyzes software features by general categories including range of map types, availability and flexibility of data files, and program evaluation. Discusses ease of operation, the manual, tutorial, screens and help, error handling, design flexibility, hard copy output,…

This fourth and final article in a series about hypertext links and associated design guidelines focuses on learning support and program help links that support users' learning activities and help users understand the operational elements of the program itself. Examples are given from a HyperCard program called Desert Shield. (LRW)

Discussion of instructional transaction theory focuses on knowledge representation in an automated instructional design expert system. A knowledge structure called PEA-Net (processes, entities, and activities) is explained; the refrigeration process is used as an example; text resources and graphic resources are described; and simulations are…

Considers the concept of virtual reality; reviews its history; describes general uses of virtual reality, including entertainment, medicine, and design applications; discusses classroom uses of virtual reality, including a software program called Virtus WalkThrough for use with a computer monitor; and suggests future possibilities. (34 references)…

Shows how guidelines from Robert Pirsig's "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" can be used to evaluate computer-based projects in the schools. Guidelines include caring about the project, viewing it from the perspective of the specialist and the common person, and being systematic in approach. (KRN)

Information technology from the rhythm of African drumbeats to electronic communication is described to introduce the importance of reaching out to various groups to facilitate global understanding and language learning. (LB)

An electronic version of Yu-gong Yi Shan, an ancient Chinese fable, is discussed as a prototype of the use of technology for Chinese teaching and learning. Yu-gong demonstrates how hypermedia can be designed to overcome the linear, static, and silent constraints of book technology. (four references) (Author/LB)

Ways for using computer-generated concordances in language teaching are suggested, specifically, a typology of exercise types. Kinds of information to be derived from a concordance (e.g., keyword-in-context type) are considered, followed by a discussion of the rationale and technical problems encountered. (10 references) (LB)

Self-instruction, more likely applied to adult learners, depended on the extent to which learners more or less consciously make decisions about aspects of the learning situation and control them. Issues of control are discussed and examples of relevant learning situations are offered, including group work and computer-assisted learning. (16…

Discusses the changes that technology has brought to the music classroom. Argues that the need for change is crucial for understanding technology, in its application, and for the resulting process of education. Compares computer-assisted instruction with technology-based education. Suggests that rather than technology degrading the arts, the arts…

Argues that those who work in the field of computers and composition have developed a characteristic value system antithetical to that found generally in English departments. Compares the characteristic value system of computer specialists with the general academic values and hopes that it remains distinct. (HB)

Outlines the drastic changes involved in introducing computer technology into the teaching of writing, particularly with regard to the overarching costs of such changes and the sense of dislocation that often accompanies them. Discusses problems that teachers typically have when shifting to computer instruction. (HB)

Discusses the use of interactive media in computer-based training and describes a workbook and software package--Interactive Toolkit--designed for students learning to use interactive media. The package covers the basics of instructional design and how interactive media works, and a simple authoring system for creating computer-based training…

Comparison of 2 computer-assisted instructional treatments in syllogistic reasoning--one requiring a deeper level of processing with a diagrammatic response--found that the 13 learning-disabled high school students receiving the diagrammatic instruction required fewer trials to achieve mastery criteria and produced significantly higher posttest…

Discusses issues that are relevant to the successful integration of technology and education that should be considered in preservice teacher education, as well as by professionals. Topics addressed include lack of organizational, theoretical, and practical consensus; the role of technology in school reform; and the role of integrated learning…