An interactive, multimedia text for calculus instruction that contains the entire contents of a corresponding textbook is evaluated and found to have features that enhance concepts with dynamic examples of graphs and problems that make good use of animation, audio, and video. Its design accommodates diverse student abilities and educational…

This article traces the historical development of fractal geometry from early in the twentieth century and offers an explanation of the mathematics behind the recursion formulas and their representations within computer graphics. Also included are the fundamentals behind programing for fractal graphics in the C Language with appropriate…

Investigates the theoretical basis of the writing process and describes the possibilities of word processing as a tool to support it. Writing process models are compared; the advantages of word processing are discussed, highlighting the revision process; and a model for use by elementary and secondary teachers is suggested. (21 references) (LRW)

Discusses a database used by honors high school U.S. history students learning about the Spanish-American War. Reports that the students compiled the database. Includes some of the historical background of the war, questions for study, a database key, and a table showing U.S. senators' votes relating to the War. (SG)

Discusses the movement toward digital-based platforms including full-motion video for multimedia products. Hardware- and software-based compression techniques for digital data storage are considered, and a chart summarizes features of Digital Video Interactive, Moving Pictures Experts Group, P x 64, Joint Photographic Experts Group, Apple…

Reports results of two studies that compared the introduction of procedural (exemplified by Pascal) and declarative (exemplified by Prolog) programing languages to Italian secondary school students. Discussion covers learning approaches and problems, mental models, programing techniques, programing environments, and educational applications. (27…

The experience of piloting a course combining computer-assisted instruction with computer conferencing yielded lessons for distance education: (1) careful training in the use of the technology at various levels improves learner access and reduces frustrations; and (2) institutional infrastructure and absence of defined departmental…

Describes how HyperCard software can be used to direct students to databases, applications, and explanations in an online environment. The use of HyperCard with other software is discussed; using HyperCard to set up tutorials is explained; and limitations are addressed, including the amount of memory needed and the speed of the hardware. (LRW)

Found that a preschool girls' microcomputer group did not show more positive gender-role attitudes toward computers on a posttest when compared with a girls' control group. With equivalent instruction designed to hold the interest of girls, boys completed a significantly greater number of LOGO tasks than girls after the intervention. (Author/KS)

Discusses "Boston Massacre," an interactive tutorial game for learning about the Revolutionary War incident. Describes the development of the game and its academic uses. Includes instructions, a sample student response sheet, short answer and multiple choice examinations, and a listing of teacher resources. Reminds history teachers that…

Describes applications of bar coding technology that will help teachers to organize and energize their classrooms. Explains how bar codes--the black-and-white lines used for identification--are read and produced. Educational applications include their use in testing, equipment inventory, specimen identification, time keeping in experiments,…

Describes the natural language computer program, "Vinci." Explains that using an attribute grammar formalism, Vinci can simulate components of several current linguistic theories. Considers the design of the system and its applications in linguistic modelling and second language acquisition research. Notes Vinci's uses in linguistics…

Discusses the interrelationships of the concepts of adaptability and portability of educational software. A conceptual framework for adaptable educational software is offered, a seven-stage model of adaptation is presented, and the research approach of the USE project in the Netherlands--which is concerned with the development and use of adaptable…

Discusses the use of computers in music and music education. Topics discussed include the use of computers to assist in music composition and performance; changing employment opportunities for studio musicians; multimedia applications, including high resolution graphics; editing and publishing music; and database projects. (14 references) (LRW)

Described are various ways that a computer algebra system (MAPLE) was used to facilitate the resequencing of skills and applications within an elementary college-level business calculus course. Experimental results confirmed earlier findings that skills acquisition is not a prerequisite to conceptual understanding or problem-solving ability. (JJK)