Describes the background, development, and testing of a computer software program designed to teach principles of statistical sampling in social science courses. Compares results of a field test of the program, Introduction to Sampling Error Experiments (ISEE), with traditional instruction. (CFR)

Asserts that novice writers have little control over the composition process. Reports on 72 fourth graders who worked individually and in pairs with a computer-based composition program. Finds that students with better prior composition skills working individually benefited most from computer prompts. (CFR)

Reviews research in which computers have provided support for collaborative learning. Asserts that the technology itself is not neutral with respect to learning activities. Concludes that computer interface with the learner involves more than just the interaction with the computer. (CFR)

Asserts that improvement of curriculum and instruction in geography must include the integration of spatial technologies. Argues the future requires the development of exemplary curriculum materials, a greater network of users, distribution of hardware and software to teachers, and agreement about ethics in information processing. (CFR)

Explains how computer database technology can be used in the herbarium and be a useful aid in teaching botany and plant taxonomy. (PR)

Presents a simple model that can help students think about evolution and better understand the gradualist and punctuationist macroevolution approaches. The model also improves instruction for concepts of mutation, selection, fitness, extinction, and origin of life. Describes an IBM computer program for instruction in these areas. (PR)

The use of the Absence Registration System (ARS), a computer-assisted system that supports registration of absent students, and its effects on truancy were studied in 30 Dutch urban secondary schools. Reasons why results do not show a significant reduction in absenteeism are discussed. (SLD)

Describes a magnet school in Revere, Massachusetts, developed around the theme of a technology-based curriculum for the purpose of integrating the district made up predominately of Southeast Asian students. Discusses the shcool's design, instruction and administration, library services, computer laboratories, and instructional adjustments made by…

Summarizes the animal rights argument that objects to the use or killing of animals for educational purposes. Reviews and evaluates alternative approaches that include the nonanimal options of videotaped experiments, self-experimentation, and computer simulations. (MDH)

Describes an introductory meteorology course for nonacademic high school students. The course is made hands-on by the use of an educational software program offered by Accu-Weather. The program contains a meteorology database and instructional modules. (PR)

Describes how a teacher and a distance-learning consultant collaborate in using the Internet and Computer Supported Intentional Learning Environment (CISILE) to connect multicultural students on the harsh Baffin Island (Canada). Discusses the creation of the class's database and future implications. (AEF)

Presents the results of a study that surveyed 350 Australian secondary teachers concerning their experiences and attitudes about computers. As hypothesized, computer anxieties were inversely related to the quality of prior computer learning experiences. Recommends approaches for the reduction of computer anxiety among teachers. (MJP)

Examines what children learn from using educational technology in an informal, collaborative environment. Explores how mastering educational computer programs can promote problem-solving transfer. Studies at three after-school computer clubs reveal children who use educational software may learn content knowledge about computer literacy,…

Observes that most educators agree that an essential goal of education is the development of students who are effective problem solvers. Describes Problem Based Learning (PBL) environments where students act as professionals and confront problems as they occur. Outlines the stages of PBL and provides a bibliography for further reading. (DSK)

Offers a critical overview of the cultural and educational benefits and dangers of digital media for young people. Argues that public debates on this issue have "veered from utopian hype to moral panic." Provides accounts of previous research on children's engagement with computer games and creative use of multimedia in the home. (CR)