This report presents key findings from the 2003 FRSS survey on Internet access in U.S. public schools and selected comparisons with data from previous FRSS Internet surveys. The 2003 survey, covered the following topics: (1) school connectivity, including school and classroom access to the Internet, types of connections, and computer hardware,…

A random sampling of computer software designed for educational use is reviewed. (MP)

Technological advances in nonproprietary software are discussed. Developments in general support of software and in computer hardware are examined. It is suggested that nonproprietary software is a resource that can save colleges and universities system development time and costs. (Author/SF)

Reports the successful design and implementation of a World Wide Web application for handling graduate applications at the University of Delaware that allows 46 departmental admissions committee faculty and staff to access up-to-the-minute information from their workstations. The application has reduced interdepartmental paperwork and processing…

Integrated remote access servers support many different types of access. Remote access has been integrated as a strategic tool as application developers build remote access capabilities into their software. Discusses demands of using remote access as a strategic component and management matters. (AEF)

A study of 170 undergraduates at the University of Washington examined the effect of terminology and screen layout on student ability to select databases from an initial online interface, "Session Manager." Results indicated that student ability to navigate menu screens was improved with expanded terminology and type grouping of online…

Using personal computer spreadsheet software, standard corporate financial analysis can help university research administrators communicate the value of research and development to sponsors and other stakeholders; balance projects, technologies, or categories of research; and continually assess the value of investing in ongoing projects. It also…

Offers practical advice and encouragement to potential users of PowerPoint who lack confidence and adequate computer skills to begin using this technology in their teaching. Offers suggestions on topics such as size of text, fonts, and use of color. (DDR)

Discusses the benefits of dynamic geometry software in helping students learn to write proofs. The software allows students to create simple geometric figures, explore relationships, make conjectures about their properties, and test those conjectures. (AIM)

Analyzes whether push technology is a threat or opportunity for online searchers. Outlines key functions of push technology products and defines key technology terms. Illustrates how the role of the online searcher changes with push technology. (AEF)

Outlines a course at the University of Glamorgan in the United Kingdom in which a computer algebra system (CAS) teaches mathematical modeling. The format is based on continual assessment of group and individual work stating the problem, a feature list, and formulation of the models. No additional mathematical word processing package is necessary.…

Describes electronic portfolios and explains their use to relate student work to educational standards, demonstrate wider dimensions of learning, and interconnections with hyperlinks. Other topics include selecting an electronic portfolio program, including lists of vendors; components of electronic portfolios; portfolio management; and hardware…

Reports results of a United Kingdom-based mail survey of database users, CD-ROM producers, and hosts to assess trends and views concerning documentation in machine-readable form. Cost, convenience, and ease of use of print manuals are cited as reasons for the reluctance to switch to machine-readable documentation. Sample surveys are included.…

This article uses the example of a single training course to show how to incorporate human factors into the interactive multimedia courseware development process. Three types of testing to identify human factors issues in courseware are discussed: usability testing, pilot testing, and field testing. (Author/LRW)

Describes various projects being undertaken by academic libraries to provide information in digital form. Highlights include the Library of Congress's program; access via the Internet; software programs; cooperative library projects; possibilities of financial support from the private sector; technical problems; and copyright issues. (LRW)