Describes a study that investigated the differential effects of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) and metacognitive training (META) on mathematical reasoning. Participants were 83 Israeli eighth-grade students. Results showed that CAS embedded within META significantly outperformed the META and CAS alone conditions, which in turn significantly…

Reports on a study that investigated the collaborative interaction patterns exhibited by five-year-old preprimary children in a multimedia educational computer environment in Perth, Australia. Discusses software appropriateness; preexisting computer competency and computer attitudes; friendship between collaborators; social goals; learning…

A teacher reflects on experiences teaching an online master's in ESOL program, offering insights about how the mode made her teach in less traditional ways, deal with more probing questions, and reconceptualize the roles of formal and informal text. (Author/VWL)

Discusses improving mathematical reasoning through the design of computer microworlds and evaluates a computer-based learning environment that uses multiple representations to improve undergraduate students' conception of average speed. Describes improvement of students' estimates of average speed by using visual feedback from a simulation.…

To expand online learning opportunities for K-12 students and educators, the Colorado Department of Education established a task force that evaluated programs in 16 other states. Four principles were identified as necessary to promoting equity, rewarding individual achievement, assuring quality and consistency, and adapting to diverse needs:…

Examines the redesign of a problem-based learning (PBL) course and its effects on students' cognitive learning outcomes in a college business course in the Netherlands. Compares the regular PBL course with the new authentic learning environment that included greater authenticity of case studies, more learner control, and social collaboration that…

The program used by French-language teachers at the University of Lausanne (Switzerland) to develop software for students' independent study is described, and the process of creating an interactive exercise is illustrated. The ease and flexibility of authoring is highlighted. (MSE)

Describes various projects of the Didascalia computer-assisted language-learning research center, reflecting major steps in the development of the center and illustrating facets of the prevailing bottom-up approach: from the general lexical programs towards the more contextualized, to the company specific, to the language testing programs. (15…

Describes a prototype of computer-assisted language learning software, "BUSCA," that attempts to bridge the gap between commercially available, but pedagogically unsound, Spanish Foreign Language learning programs. The article notes that "BUSCA" is designed to be integrated into a formal course to assist students to become…

Discusses the introduction of different types of technology in education since the 18th century: print, photographs and illustrations, motion pictures, computers, computer-based learning, educational television programming, online courses, World Wide Web, and multimedia. Predicts that digital technologies will have an impact on 21st-century…

Provides an overview of computers in education: early computers and computer languages, computer-assisted instruction, micro worlds, microcomputers, intelligent tutors, intelligent tools, symbol systems, computer graphics, virtual reality, distance education via the Internet, distance mentoring, learning-on-demand, organizational learning via…

Argues that including computer programming in the curriculum as a medium for instruction is a feasible alternative for teaching problem solving. Discusses the nature of problem solving; the problem-solving elements of discovery, motivation, practical learning situations and flexibility which are inherent in programming; capabilities of computer…

Reviews research on the effectiveness of hypertext/hypermedia-based learning and concludes that presenting subject matter from different perspectives, in multiple contexts, and in multiple codes does not automatically contribute to higher performance but may when instructional scaffolding is provided. The additional cognitive load may actually…

Challenges research and prevailing attitudes that maintain that computers improve teaching and academic achievement. Criticizes and questions research methodology, computer literacy education, the need for computer skills to make a competitive workforce, support from the business community resulting from technology programs, and Internet use. (LRW)

Describes the Directed-Self Education program at the University of Bristol (England) for undergraduate small-group project work in veterinary science that was designed to support students in developing personal study and information technology skills. It also produced student-authored hypermedia tools which could be repurposed by staff as teaching…