This paper details a study of knowledge-building activities in the domain of computer software. Thirty-six adults--evenly split among beginning, intermediate, and advanced knowledge levels--were videotaped while they attempted to learn a common spreadsheet package. Subjects were asked to think aloud while learning. Each knowledge building activity…

The visual image is so information-rich that describing its content fully can be very problematic. Trying to codify or analyze the content in any systematic way often proves even more difficult. Nevertheless, reducing certain aspects of visual data to a set of numbers can be useful because it exposes characteristics of the message that might be…

This paper describes how electronic presentations are currently used by business people. Business people in the United States and Sweden were surveyed to determine how they are using the medium. A questionnaire was mailed to 506 business people in the United States (201 returned) and to 80 business people in Sweden (76 returned). Results are…

The purpose of this brochure, which was produced as a service to the academic community, is to provide a brief outline of what can and cannot be done legally with software, and to clarify the implications and restrictions of the U.S. Copyright Law. Relevant facts concerning copying software precede the EDUCOM statement of principle on intellectual…

This paper presents a detailed derivation of method of moments estimates used in computer programs for the four-parameter beta compound binomial strong true score model. A procedure is presented to deal with the case in which the usual method of moments estimates do not exist or result in invalid parameter estimates. The results presented…

The objective of the current research program was to develop a prototype knowledge acquisition tool that could enable the investigation of knowledge acquisition issues for instructional systems. Our approach to accomplishing this objective entailed the identification of the types of knowledge to be acquired, the evaluation of methods of acquiring…

This computer software program helps to make classroom worksheets, take home assignments, and school mathematics tests easy to design and manufacture. The accompanying printed teaching guide provides technical information for setting up and using the program, along with sample worksheets and instructions on how to create them using the software.…

This paper introduces a hardware and software independent model for producing educational computer simulation environments. The model, which is based on the results of 32 studies of educational computer simulations program production, implies that educational computer simulation environments are specified, constructed, tested, implemented, and…

The topic of open systems as it relates to the needs of libraries to establish interoperability between dissimilar computer systems can be clarified by an understanding of the background and evolution of the issue. The International Standards Organization developed a model to link dissimilar computers, and this model has evolved into consensus…

This guide is designed to provide a quick introduction to the basic elements of HyperCard for teachers who are familiar with other computer applications but may not have worked with hypermedia applications; previous familiarity with HyperCard or with Macintosh computers is not necessary. It is noted that HyperCard is a software construction…

This book helps individuals use Turtle Time Designs programs (i.e., a series of graphics program files to be used with LogoWriter) even if they have little previous experience with LogoWriter. The features of each program are carefully explained and are followed by step-by-step suggestions for teaching the lesson. Examples of the types of designs…

A work-study student assistant was employed at the Carnegie Mellon University Engineering and Science Library to help prepare documentation for a new library program. The student, a junior professional writing major, used the Apple Macintosh microcomputer to design a brochure, billing worksheet, and spreadsheet for the new program. On completion…

Computer software for elementary and secondary school second language instruction produced by 55 companies is listed and briefly described. The information is organized by company. Each company listing includes the publisher's address and telephone number and citations for each relevant computer program. For each program, information on price,…

This white paper focuses on the integration and enhancement of the computing experience for undergraduates throughout the chemical engineering curriculum. The computing experience for undergraduates in chemical engineering should have continuity and be coordinated from course to course, because a single software solution is difficult to achieve in…

We show a new approach, based on the utilization of Mathematica, to solve gas permeation problems using membranes. We start with the design of a membrane unit for the separation of a multicomponent mixture. The built-in Mathematica function, FindRoot, allows one to solve seven simultaneous equations instead of using the iterative approach of…