Discusses the use of virtual environments (VEs) in teaching and learning. Examines the characteristics of effective VE in learning environments, looking at the added value produced by immersion, whereby students learn directly rather than through difficult symbol systems. Many apprehensions about VE are corrected, and the conclusions drawn are…

Discusses the development and use of Personal Assistants for Learning (PALs) computer tutorials for teaching applications of Newton's Laws. Finds that the tutorials were nearly as effective as individual tutoring by expert teachers and considerably more effective than the instruction provided in a well-taught physics class. (Contains over 30…

Describes a demonstration project of a textbook chapter created with a vision for an active and interactive question-led textbook commenting on the content of the demonstration chapter, using HTML and Javascript in creating it, and aspects of the chapter as it is actually experienced. Includes reactions by Michael K. Salemi and Kailash Khandke.…

Demonstrates that computer-based lecture (CBL) can enhance student learning in economics courses. Addresses various tools and techniques that teachers can utilize, such as assisted notetaking and presentation materials. Considers four active, collaborative exercises that can be facilitated through CBL techniques. Includes reactions by Gisela Meyer…

Indicates the importance of journaling for student teachers to reflect upon the nature of the teaching experience and the increasing of student and supervising teacher communication by e-mail. Describes flexible strategies using a personal digital assistant to facilitate the development of field notes during observations. (Contains 17 references.)…

A review of 17 studies on computer assisted instruction (CAI) in reading interventions for students with learning disabilities found most CAI programs employed drill and practice procedures, followed by strategy instruction, then simulation. The focus was split between word recognition and reading comprehension, followed by language/vocabulary,…

Gives an overview of the history of the Hawaiian language and the decline in number of speakers, chronicles efforts to revitalize it, and discusses the role of computing and online communications in this process, focusing on the Leoki bulletin board system, the first fully based on an indigenous language. Activities in an elementary school…

Notes many networked composition classrooms can be considered "transitional;" focus of the classes is neither exclusively on print-oriented skills nor on electronic-literacy skills. Focuses on an instructor's first-year composition courses in a computerized environment. Outlines ways teachers may employ a portfolio pedagogy in networked…

This study of the effects of gender on computer use and telecommunications, analyzed e-mail, daily logs, newsletters, text and graphic documents, and transcripts of interviews with 30 elementary school children. Study found girls and boys used technology to confirm and defy gender stereotypes and that gender biases in classroom interactions were…

Examines extent to which assessment of text comprehension involves knowledge of the properties of human cognition and the context of assessment. Shows that assessments of the quality of the answers varied based on the perceived human or artificial source of the answers. Provides copies of experimental questionnaires in the appendices. (DSK)

Argues that the explicit consideration of literary theory has become increasingly important in the fields of textual studies and in undergraduate literature studies. Introduces the use of hypertext and the Linear Modeling Kit to model structuralist ideas about narrative. Shows that modeling stimulates student questioning and discussion. (DSK)

Surveys basic-writing teachers nationally. Reports diverse ways in which developmental writing curricula have been changed by introduction of new technologies. Presents findings related to classroom practice, teacher development, and distribution of resources. Finds several patterns of computer use: resistance, lack of infrastructure, uneven…

Discusses how electronic mail helps foreign-language (FL) teachers by enhancing their curriculum, improving their FL contacts, and facilitating their own professional development. Electronic mail offers access to discussion groups and newsgroups. It allows teachers to design activities and projects that enhance their curriculum and provide…

Describes the experience of administrators, teachers, and students in the first two years of Silver Oak Elementary School, a new school with technology-rich classrooms in San Jose, California. Highlights technology planning, problems resulting from technology use, parent involvement, teacher technology training, district envy, and teachers…

Describes Indiana's High Tech School project that focuses on using educational technology to improve teaching/learning in high schools. Highlights goals of the 15 schools which received the grant money, including staff development, equipment purchases, collaborations, and student-assisted community services. (AEF)