Argues that developmentally appropriate computer software selection is a critical teacher decision. Recommends evaluation of child features, teacher features, and technical features. Provides a teacher checklist in each feature area to assist evaluation of the software's appropriateness and also a listing of children's software reviewers. (SD)

The public library has become the locus for public anxiety about children's access to objectionable material on the Internet. Discusses Judith Krug's (Director of the American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom) defense of unrestricted access, acceptable use, and filtering software. Highlights six filtering programs (client and…

An experiment tested two software packages, Master Max and Yourturn, in a real learning environment and suggested one possible way of integrating the computer into the language classroom. It is argued that for secondary education the computer's "tool function" is most important, giving more practical emphasis to second-language learning.…

Presents a computer software review of the graphical online interface, Ovid client for Windows. Evaluates the following system options: database choices, graphical interface, index browsing, searching, topical limiting, term mapping, displaying, printing, and downloading. Sidebars display product information and feedback from Ovid Technologies in…

This last article in a series which reported results of a software evaluation project done by the Netherlands Association of Users of Online Information Systems (VOGIN) focuses on how to select appropriate software. Topics discussed include price considerations; user needs; and types and quality of information. (Contains 11 references.) (LRW)

Six college and university alumni and development professionals comment on problems and potential of computer software for program administration. They look at current problems with software, discuss capabilities they would like to have, and make predictions for the future of software abilities, hardware uses, sales, and other issues. (MSE)

An online library catalog was used to evaluate an interactive query expansion facility based on relevance feedback for the Okapi, probabilistic, term weighting, retrieval system. A graphical user interface allowed searchers to select candidate terms extracted from relevant retrieved items to reformulate queries. Results suggested that the…

Discusses the potential impact of computers in qualitative health research. Describes the original goals, design, and implementation of NUDIST, a qualitative computing software. Argues for evaluation of the impact of computer techniques and for an opening of debate among program developers and users to address the purposes and power of computing…

Discusses three innovative Internet-based electronic document delivery systems: Ariel, developed by the Research Libraries Group; Digitized Document Transmission Project, developed by North Carolina State University; and Network Fax Project, developed by Ohio State University. System are compared in terms of equipment, operation, advantages and…

Three mathematics software packages, MathCAD, Point Five, and TK Solver Plus, are described and compared. The packages were rated on the accompanying documentation, ease of learning, ease of use, matrix operations, equation solving capability, versatility, use of units, generation of graphs and tables, readability of output, and overall…

Discusses in detail the intricate and fascinating series of problems surrounding the production, distribution, and extended use of lessons in marine sciences that utilize remotely sensed images as the underlying medium of instruction. Focuses on computer-based learning activities because remotely sensed images are derived from the interpretation…

Provides the rationale and purpose underlying an evaluation of criteria form appropriate for inquiry-based science software or interactive multimedia programs. A copy of the form is included. (JJK)

Discusses methods that software evaluation organizations use to evaluate instructional software. Topics addressed include who does the evaluating, including the role of students as well as teachers, subject matter experts, media specialists, and school administrators; reliability of evaluations; and possible improvements in the evaluation process.…

Computerized pupil transportation systems offer promising benefits to school districts. Outlines ways school administrators can select the right product by following some traditional business approaches. (MLF)

This article utilizes several examples to describe the use of MathCAD, a computer scratchpad for calculations, within a lecture-demonstration method of teaching general calculus. Both hardware requirements and software features are discussed specifically related to the proper design of student worksheets with emphasis on parameter variation. (JJK)