Describes the Central Media Resource System (CMRS), a method that allows multimedia instruction to large groups of students. Highlights include the information infrastructure, including fiber optics and coaxial cable; use of the CMRS in the classroom and in the media resource center; and future possibilities, including local and wide area…

Multimedia software stimulates learning paths by offering information through pictures, written text, sound, animation, and video. Multimedia computing is a powerful tool for educators to use to develop lessons and materials. Cites schools where learning is treated as a dynamic, multisensory experience. (MLF)

Vanderbilt University (Tennessee) is experimenting with a special multimedia classroom designed around cutting-edge electronic equipment that allows faculty to use computer and audiovisual technology together. Initially used most in sciences and mathematics, faculty from other disciplines are joining in. The facility encourages development of new…

Describes the Remote Area Teacher Education Programme (RATEP) implemented in Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities in Far North Queensland (Australia) to demonstrate the potential of interactive multimedia in the delivery of on-site teacher education programs in remote areas. Interactive learning systems, information technology, and pedagogy in…

Discusses teaching packages, which contain a variety of media resources, and how they can be evaluated through a surrogate teacher model. Evaluation strategies are reviewed, including content analysis, field tests, and pupil reports; the evaluation report is described; and use of this strategy in the United Kingdom is discussed. (Contains 30…

Reviews three software titles: (1) "Make Test for the Macintosh," a program for teachers to develop tests of any length and variety; (2) "The Great Ocean Rescue," an interactive, multimedia program that allows students to solve hypothetical problems affecting oceans; and (3) "Research Paper Writer," a computer simulation that guides students in…

Synthesizes research findings and theoretical perspectives of advanced technologies as they relate to learning. The article identifies and discusses several issues for the design and use of multimedia applications. The article examines behaviorist, cognitive, and constructivist approaches to learning, noting their relationship to multimedia…

Describes and evaluates a technology source, Strategic Teaching Framework (STF), to support elementary school teachers in adopting a situated, constructivist approach to teaching mathematics. Presents three case studies of teachers as well as a cross-case analysis. Discusses changes in teaching practices and the conceptualization of those changes.…

This study of 90 kindergarten children examined gender differences in learning interest from different designs of multimedia interfaces. Results indicate a significant difference between boys and girls in the influence of the design of interactive multimedia stories on time on task and on level of satisfaction with the interfaces. (Author/LRW)

Classes in anatomy and sonography were both taught using lectures and Programmed Learning Sequence (PLS) in book format. Sonography students also used PLS in multimedia. Achievement was higher with PLS than lecture; book PLS was more effective than multimedia; and there was a significant correlation between learning-style preferences and…

Takes a critical look at a popular German-language multimedia package, Learn to Speak German. The evaluation criteria generally comply with current thinking on foreign-language learning. Suggests that while the program in many respects represents the state of the art in language-learning technology, it leaves much to be desired regarding the…

Discussion of psychological effects associated with the increasing capabilities of new technology focuses on issues involved with multimedia teaching systems and the development of the self. Includes a review of technology attitudes and individual differences in relation to the voluntary use of technology and contrasts that with the rejection of…

Discusses multiple representations and multimedia learning environments; describes a functional taxonomy of MERs (multiple external representations); and considers how MERs are used to support cognitive processes in learning and problem solving with computers. (Contains 41 references.) (Author/LRW)

Describes how a teacher helped transform a K-12 Christian school near Sydney, Australia, from a book-bound media studies program into a hands-on learning experience for students. Various projects allow students to operate advanced equipment, evaluate their own and their peers' work, present research results to the class, and produce live media…

Describes a small-sample study (n=78) that examined vocabulary acquisition by learners of French-as-a-Second-Language in different learning environments. Vocabulary gains made by a group of learners in a multimedia context were assessed against gains made by two control groups, one of which used video support. (Author/JL)