Presents two spreadsheets for middle school students applying Polya's heuristic to help develop number sense, reasoning abilities, and problem-solving skills. Spreadsheet 1, "the coin problem," allows students to vary coin quantities to total $8.32. Spreadsheet 2, "ratios," develops number relationships while finding 3 3-digit…

Discusses and provides sample lessons of learning by discovery and weekly problem sets, which are presented as alternative methods for teaching college calculus. Both approaches stress conceptual understanding and guide the students to explore the ideas of calculus in small groups in a computer laboratory setting. (JJK)

Describes and illustrates the Monomial Sums Approach, a graphical learning strategy, facilitated by microcomputer capabilities that allow easy manipulation and exploration of graphical representations of polynomial functions. Reduces emphasis on memorized rules in favor of qualitative understanding of functional behavior, visualization of…

Discusses the use of the LOGO programing language as a problem-solving tool for elementary school students. Papert's theory is explained; the integration of LOGO into the language arts and math curricula is discussed; LOGO research is reviewed; and recommendations for future work are offered. (18 references) (LRW)

Reviews less common research conclusions published after 1986 on the use of computers in mathematics education. Presents six conclusions that teachers should accept with caution. Conclusions refer to cooperative learning, sex bias, disadvantaged students, problem-solving skills, and remedial mathematics students. (MDH)

The third in a series of 3 articles, a study of 30 students was conducted to test the effect of restructuring a unit on trigonometric identities around microcomputer activities based on the themes of educational undercurrents identified in Part II. Experimental-group students scored significantly higher relating trigonometric functions to their…

This study examined the representations that a 16-year-old student made using the flexible computer system, "Boxer," in learning the genetic code. Results indicated that programing made it easier to build and explore flexible and useful representations and encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration between mathematics and biology…

This study found that students using hypertext to learn technical information experienced an increased sense of control, and results provide preliminary evidence of an increased level of intrinsic motivation to learn among hypertext users. Implications for further research regarding the effects of hypermedia on intrinsic motivation are discussed.…

Describes a study conducted in Northern Ireland that investigated the impact of personal computers on pupils' cognitive and affective development. Topics addressed include attitudes toward English, math, or science; gender differences; process-based work versus content learning; and treatment of experimental and control groups. (Contains five…

Reports on a naturalistic study conducted with 24 low-achieving high school biology students that determined how the teacher and students used two computer-based videodisk programs, a print-based activity, and a dissection laboratory to learn about frog anatomy and to conduct a frog dissection. Future research is suggested. (Contains 14…

Discussion of multimedia instruction focuses on a pilot study that compared the relative effectiveness of three interactive media formats in a DVI/RTV (Digital Video Interactive/Real Time Video) computer-mediated instructional lesson for a military communications system. Hypotheses tested are discussed, and the educational importance is…

Introduces an interactive distance learning environment prototype developed jointly by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and AT&T which allows students to participate in virtual classroom environments by using computer teleconferencing. Student collaboration, note taking, question answering capabilities, project background, learning…

Special supplement contains articles covering kinds of networking systems used in schools; the benefits of networking; using technology to close achievement gaps between white and minority students; comments from three school administrators on their districts' technology planning; modem basics; and brief quotes on why schools should invest in…

Describes attempts to integrate computer technology into the preservice teacher education program at Lesley College. Topics discussed include technology goals; faculty attitudes; technology in the schools; technological developments; problems; and factors affecting adoption of computer technology, including the need for faculty to learn more about…

This second in a series of articles on planning for instructional computer networks focuses on site preparation, installation, service, and support. Highlights include an implementation schedule; classroom and computer lab layouts; electrical power needs; workstations; network cable; telephones; furniture; climate control; and security. (LRW)