Exploration of a specific use of Text Based Virtual Reality--not just as powerful communities for authentic communication and collaboration in language learning but exploiting role-playing and writing aspects. The "Walk on Ice" takes a group of adult English-as-a-Second-Language learners through the creation of imaginary characters who…

Discusses the decline in reference statistics in academic libraries and considers the role of access to information via the Internet. Highlights include patron expectations and demands; commercial Web reference services; and virtual reference desk software so libraries can offer 24 hour service, including public libraries. (LRW)

Discusses changes in distance education and considers the resulting need for new types of library services. Topics include new Web-based contact center software; how to conduct virtual reference interviews; online reference service; the role of the physical library; staffing changes; and future possibilities, including impacts on costs of library…

The authors recount some challenges associated with teaching poetry to high school students and describe how an interactive software program to generate "found" poetry based on student input helped simulate dialogue about words and word choices. (AEF)

An interactive, child-initiated software package was used in teaching reading and communication skills to 3 groups of children (n=30), including 20 children with autism and mixed disabilities. Results suggest that such programs may stimulate reading and communication, but that interventions must be individualized and include detailed planning and…

Describes efforts to adapt R-WISE (Reading and Writing in a Supportive Environment), a computer program developed for the military, for public education. Field testing at MacArthur High School (Texas) using ninth-grade classes is discussed, including fostering higher-order thinking skills, coping with change, and integrating software into the…

Discusses trends and issues in the archival, historical, and information sciences. Examines the relationship between history and information science; surveys archives in the context of contemporary issues pervading history and information science. Also discusses concerns common to all three sciences, including technological obsolescence and…

Examines the uses of technology at Yujin Gakuen, a public elementary-level Japanese language immersion school located in Eugene, Oregon. Discusses goals that can be achieved through cooperative learning and instructional technology use, equipment and software, areas in which technology training and integration takes place, the role of educators,…

The National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) has produced a national study of public two-year college finances useful as an institutional planning tool. The report consists of four products: a fiscal year 1995 national sample of data; a more detailed analysis facilitating comparison of college peer groups; a…

Describes electronic performance support systems (EPSS) as an opportunity to view teacher preparation and support from a new perspective. EPSS are integrated, computer-based systems that provide timely information, useful advice, relevant instruction, and productivity tools when needed. Strengths and limitations of EPSS are discussed. (SM)

Reports a study that examined entering preservice teachers' prior experience in word processing, database, and spreadsheet software, based on self-reported information. Factors that influenced students' entering skills (for example, gender and computer experience) were noted. Survey data indicated that the subjects had little prior knowledge of…

Examines the process of developing an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) cloze test by computer based on a language corpus. Two such tests developed and pilot-tested in Hong Kong were found to have test items that were not as good as they would have been if designed by a competent human, but better than expected. (Author/MSE)

Describes the Wisconsin Instructional Design System (WIDS), a partnership between colleges and industry that developed an instructional design model, software, video course for professional development, and training and consulting to enhance instructional effectiveness. Describes uses in secondary schools for performance-based instruction to…

Knowledge Forum is Canadian software that enables elementary students in Nunavut to record and share their topics of investigation and those of their classmates, much as a community of scientists would. The goal is the creation of learning communities in which students collaboratively build knowledge and teachers facilitate. The software also has…

"The Research Assistant," was developed to help graduate students and faculty manage the quantity of available information, to be able to read it, synthesize it, and create new insights and knowledge. "The Research Assistant" was designed using the Filemaker Pro relational database and can be set up in a networked environment to be used in…