Users of desktop publishing may be distracted from clear communication by the advanced features of the technology. Common problems include irregularly-shaped blocks of copy, angled type, excessive underlining, widows and orphans, unequal spacing, excessive hyphenation, exaggerated tabs and indents, grammatical errors, cramped logos and addresses,…

Describes textual database queries in the humanities based on poststructuralist theories and experiences with the ARTFL (American and French Research on the Treasury of the French Language) database. The use of computers for literary research and text interpretation and analysis is considered. (Contains nine references.) (LRW)

This paper proposes the use of hypermedia as a design framework for creativity facilitation programs. It includes an overview of the major schools of thought in creativity, a review of fundamental concepts in hypertext and hypermedia, a discussion of design issues related to hypermedia-based creativity facilitation programs, and suggestions for…

Discusses issues involved in the computerization of small, nonprofit organizations based on transcripts of a discussion with computer consultants. The use of consultants is discussed; organizational and personnel issues are addressed, including management involvement; and staff training methods are described. (LRW)

Although the trend is for less documentation, this article argues that more is needed to help in the analysis of design failure in instructional design. Presents arguments supporting documented design, including error recognition and correction, verification of completeness and soundness, sharing of new design principles, modifiability, error…

Examines how students interacted with a computer-based feature in Urinalysis Tutor(TM), "Compare and Contrast," which facilitated image comparisons. Three main image-viewing modes emerged. Overall, anchored viewing was the predominant image-viewing mode. Results suggest that a computer instructional program with a user-controlled…

Discusses the trend toward ubiquitous computing and the challenge to enhance the behavior of any application by informing it of the context of its use. Defines context related to the interaction between humans, applications, and the surrounding environment; and presents a conceptual framework and a toolkit for supporting the rapid prototyping of…

We introduce an effective computer aided learning visual tool (CALVT) to teach graph-based applications. We present the robot motion planning problem as an example of such applications. The proposed tool can be used to simulate and/or further to implement practical systems in different areas of computer science such as graphics, computational…

The field of education is experiencing a rapid shift as internet-enabled distance learning becomes more widespread. Often, traditional classroom teaching pedagogical techniques can be ill-suited to the online environment. While a traditional entry-level class might see a student attrition rate of 5-10%, the same teaching pedagogy in an online…

A meta-analysis was performed to synthesize existing research comparing the effects of computer applications (i.e., computer-assisted instruction, computer simulations, and Web-based learning) versus traditional instruction on elementary school students' achievement in Taiwan. Forty-eight studies were located from four sources, and their…

The use of computer-based automated assignment systems in economics has expanded significantly in recent years. The most widely used system is Aplia which was developed by Paul Romer in 2000. Aplia is a computer application designed to replace traditional paper-based assignments in economics. The main features of Aplia are: (1) interactive content…

In this technology intensive society, most students are required to be proficient in computer skills to compete in today's global job market. These computer skills usually consist of basic to advanced knowledge in word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet applications. In many U.S. states, students are required to demonstrate computer…

The e-portfolio phenomenon has been likened to a massive technology wave hitting the wide beaches of higher education (Ayala, 2006). A review of the literature suggests that this wave might change the landscape of the beach, washing away existing landmarks and creating a new topography. Moreover, the claims of a beneficial impact on students and…

A computerized attendance system is presented that includes immediate access to attendance records and allows same-day notification to parents of a child's absence. The system, used at Carson City High School (Nevada), is broken down into five chronological steps, generating several possible attendance updates during the day: (1) compiling a…

A general review of the evolution of the use of the computer to construct school timetables (time structures) in Great Britain. (HB)