Evaluates computer software containing applications for learning Japanese as a second language. Presents overview of software available for Japanese word processing applications, lists publications that are good sources of information on Japanese computer topics, and includes a directory of distributors. (eight references) (Author/CK)

End users think of file names as a way to identify file contents, whereas computer programs often assign special meaning to file extensions. This article discusses different kinds of files on the World Wide Web: text, document, sound, video, and multimedia; file compression; and encoding formats. Includes a chart of file formats and lists Web…

Describes a study in which 12 students' papers were critiqued by both WordPerfect's "Grammatik" grammar checking software and by real English/business communication professors. Finds significant limitations to the effectiveness of the software as a guide for student writers. (SR)

Describes a computer application called HyperGami that permits users to design, explore, decorate, and study a variety of paper polyhedral models. Discusses the HyperGami interface and language, illustrates the construction of customized polyhedra, and describes results of middle school students' experiences using the system. (Author/AIM)

Finds that student Groupware users are generally satisfied with member contributions and group output but are less satisfied with software-supported, decision-making processes. Suggests that Groupware is a powerful communication tool for support of work groups but that it may not in itself solve the basic problems of getting people to work…

Discusses the need for educational change and ways to achieve it. Topics include problems with testing, the importance of learning by doing, the lack of Internet's educational value, and the possibilities of using computer software to create real-life simulations for students to learn by doing and to design new curricula. (LRW)

The Observation Procedure for Technology Education Mental Processes, a computerized assessment tool, was based on duration and frequency of mental processes needed for problem solving. Videotapes of students completing problem-solving activities were used to identify the processes. Interrater reliability tests validated the program. (SK)

Describes the development and implementation of a stand-alone computer assisted learning package for the manufacturing division of Digital Equipment Corporation. Trial tests of the courseware showed gradual improvement suggesting that computer assisted learning has considerable potential in industrial training. Identifies several issues to be…

The Archimedes Project's primary goal is to educate those who will develop the next generation of software and hardware on the obstacles and opportunities that technology presents for people with disabilities. Its research program designs prototypes, explores accessibility problems, and conducts research on relevant scientific issues. (Author/PEN)

Profiles the top-selling IOLS (integrated online library systems) software for libraries based on sales figures reported in the 1996 "Library Journal" annual survey of the library automation marketplace. Highlights include microcomputer-based systems and minicomputer-based systems, system components, MARC formats, and market sectors.…

Explains how to create slide shows via computer using common software programs such as ClarisWorks. Highlights include identifying the audience, organizing the information, becoming familiar with technical specifications of the equipment, the use of text, style consistency, the use of graphics, and the use of color. (LRW)

Describes thin clients, a networking technology that allows organizations to provide software applications over networked workstations connected to a central server. Topics include corporate settings; major advantages, including cost effectiveness and increased computer security; problems; and possible applications for large public and academic…

A virtual reality application for undergraduate chemical kinetics and reactor design education, Vicher (Virtual Chemical Reaction Model) was originally designed to simulate a portion of a modern chemical plant. Vicher now consists of two programs: Vicher I that models catalyst deactivation and Vicher II that models nonisothermal effects in…

The concept of trigonometric ratios in a right triangle can be clearly presented through the use of interactive-geometry software. Investigation in this manner allows students to see the crucial features of the concepts before they are formalized and to gain ownership of these ideas through discovery. Many examples of the mathematical…

Demonstrates the use of scientific visualization, a computer graphics technology developed to extend the use of our visual system to contexts and problem-solving situations where sight itself is not directly possible or in which normal vision fails to provide adequate opportunity for analysis. (DDR)