Summarizes the findings of a study of the conditions associated with introducing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into precollege curricula. Principal data sources included questionnaires, field observations, and interviews. Concludes that GIS will rapidly, and inevitably, become the tool of choice for exploring spatial concepts. Includes…

Illustrates how a computer software symbolic-processing program can be easily incorporated into an advanced undergraduate microeconomics course. Symbolic-processing programs are relatively sophisticated software packages that combine numeric, symbolic, and graphic computation in a single unified computing environment. Includes examples of…

Exploration of a specific use of Text Based Virtual Reality--not just as powerful communities for authentic communication and collaboration in language learning but exploiting role-playing and writing aspects. The "Walk on Ice" takes a group of adult English-as-a-Second-Language learners through the creation of imaginary characters who…

Examines the extent to which student groups working with the Chelsea Bank computer simulation were able to use school-to-work transition skills. Results show that students demonstrated substantial involvement with workplace skills and were considerably more actively engaged with learning than studies of traditional classrooms. (Author/AEF)

Discussion of student assessment in online learning focuses on a study conducted at the Center for Excellence in Education at Northern Arizona University that examined assessment of student's performance in Web-based and Web-enhanced coursework. Compares assessment in online courses to assessment in traditional courses based on results of a…

How will appropriate technologies for courses designed in the 21st century be determined? Some say the meeting of students with teachers will soon be a relic of the past, like signal fires. Others advocate the need for face-to-face instruction. Another position is advocated by those who say education should use a combination of face-to-face and…

Examines the effects and implications of embedding the element of competition in computer-assisted cooperative learning situations on student cognitive, affective, and social outcomes. Results of statistical analyses of Taiwanese fifth graders show that cooperation without inter-group competition engendered better attitudes and promoted more…

The authors recount some challenges associated with teaching poetry to high school students and describe how an interactive software program to generate "found" poetry based on student input helped simulate dialogue about words and word choices. (AEF)

Reports on a study in which an interactive computer-based tutorial with a decision support system and simulations is evaluated in the context of a distance education business degree course. Discusses the effect on students' motivation and the impact on their ability to transfer knowledge to the workplace. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the Technology Enhancing Achievement in Middle School (TEAMS) approach to classroom design, which incorporates interdisciplinary teams, active learning, and technology as an instructional tool. Considers the nature of instruction, development of the approach, and research examining its effects. Includes lists of software and other media…

Compares computer-assisted instruction in an online library tutorial with the traditional classroom approach to bibliographic instruction. Results of pretests and posttests were compared with students who did not participate in instruction and it is suggested that further research is needed in the area of confidence levels and library use.…

An interactive, child-initiated software package was used in teaching reading and communication skills to 3 groups of children (n=30), including 20 children with autism and mixed disabilities. Results suggest that such programs may stimulate reading and communication, but that interventions must be individualized and include detailed planning and…

Describes the geographic information systems (GIS) curriculum at Roosevelt Middle School (Florida); the program includes an interactive matrix of communicative hardware and geographic software. Discusses problem-solving assignments, program flexibility for individual needs, cooperative learning via online communication, and the need for students…

Discusses the development of interactive media-delivered training. Highlights include examples; indicators for using multimedia; factors for successful implementation; learning and performance development; evaluating hardware options; technology choices, including interactive videodisc, compact disc interactive, CD-ROM, networked interactive…

Describes efforts to adapt R-WISE (Reading and Writing in a Supportive Environment), a computer program developed for the military, for public education. Field testing at MacArthur High School (Texas) using ninth-grade classes is discussed, including fostering higher-order thinking skills, coping with change, and integrating software into the…