Reviews the chemistry computer database program "KC? Discoverer" from Project SERAPHIM. This program enables the user to look at chemical, physical, and microscopic properties of each element. Lists other available program options as FIND, GRAPH, LIST elemental properties, and SORT. Describes hardware requirements. (ML)

The financial challenges facing higher education, recent trends in information technology that affect institution directions, the need for shared visions, plans, and professional leadership for campus technology, and the importance of information center support are reviewed. A wide range of benefits colleges and universities are realizing in…

Asserts that students learn more rapidly and retain knowledge longer when they take an active role in the learning process. Describes a college sociology course in which students regularly contribute to a "class journal" using electronic mail. Discusses problems and pitfalls of using computers for classroom discussion. (CFR)

Examined patterns of giving and receiving explanations in three mixed-ability student groups (grades 7-10) working on problem-solving tasks. Groups were modeled after the cooperative learning approach, Student-Teams Achievement Divisions. Students infrequently sought explanations or received inadequate explanations, and explanation givers did not…

Contends that the computer software program, "Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego," can be used to teach about social studies and a wide range of other courses. Recommends instructional techniques and interdisciplinary approaches to be used with the program and includes a curriculum correlation chart. (CFR)

This article looks at increased use of technology in college instruction, and administration and technology's role in a transformed system in which faculty members become facilitators of student learning and the personalized learning plan is central. Administrative use of computers is described for student systems, business systems, recruiting,…

Ten ways to design an effective Human-Computer Interface are explained. Highlights include material delivery that relates to user knowledge; appropriate screen presentations; attention value versus learning and recall; the relationship of packaging and message; the effectiveness of visuals and text; the use of color to enhance communication; the…

Discusses collaborative writing with hypermedia and multimedia tools as well as the requisite hardware and software support that foster cognitive and social skills. Proposes research on the impact on and possibilities for students and teachers using collaborative writing in hypermedia environments. (102 references) (JKP)

Discusses issues relating to the integration of information technology into K-12 curricula, focusing on the need for structured inservice programs for teachers to develop competency with technology and curricular applications. Also examines the issue of gender equity in education and the inclusion of inservice strategies to address the problem.…

Informs parents that computers can be used for demonstration; classroom settings; tool laboratories (spreadsheets and graphics); multimedia presentations; networked instructional laboratories; integrated learning systems; schoolwide networks; writing laboratories; distance learning; and telecommunications. A sidebar lists 20 questions to ask when…

Presents six teaching ideas from teachers in Foothills Schools, Alberta, Canada. Includes suggested activities on local government, computer uses in social studies, Canadian history, current events, and world studies. Provides models of a passport application, passports, and visas. (CFR)

Describes an educational project linking classrooms using telecommunications with a four-person bicycling team exploring Mayan ruins in Central America. Provides a historical overview of the Mayan civilization. Includes suggested activities and provides information on how to obtain lesson plans on the project. (CFR)

Describes a thematic curriculum unit in which elementary students simulate travel around the world and record their experiences using word processors and databases. Includes figures listing student directions and an actual student journal entry. Asserts that technology can heighten student motivation and improve knowledge about the world. (CFR)

Examines the development and validation of a new instrument that assesses student perceptions of gender equity, investigation, innovation, and resource adequacy in computer-assisted learning. A survey of 671 high school students in Singapore revealed that each scale displayed satisfactory validity and reliability. (65 references) (Author/AEF)

Examines the premise that experience with computers can fundamentally alter teaching. Contends that the promise of computers and other educational technology is overstated. Presents a case study and summaries of other studies that suggest a teacher's instructional philosophy is a more powerful determinant of computer effectiveness. (CFR)