Peer tutoring in the use of computer software for engineering design was used at the University of New South Wales (Australia) to bring 63 students to the mastery level already attained by other students. Analysis indicated that both students and tutors (n=31) received educational benefits from this approach. (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…

Describes five steps to help students create multimedia presentations: (1) locate, access, and analyze information; (2) design the presentation using hypermedia software; (3) organize the information and compose the text; (4) select and integrate multimedia; and (5) revise and practice. (LRW)

Describes an online process that allows high school science classes to connect to the Mount Wilson Observatory to learn about astronomy. Scheduling time for remote telescope access is explained; activities to prepare students for using the software are discussed; and benefits of the experience are considered, including students' critical thought…

Describes three companies' approaches to marketing and selling CD-ROM products on the World Wide Web. Benefits include low overhead for Internet-based sales, allowance for creativity, and ability to let customers preview products online. Discusses advertising, information delivery, content, information services, and security. (AEF)

Details a study of the need or wisdom of universities and colleges to include lab sections of courses that are offered to teach software. No significant difference was found in the knowledge gained for those students who participated in the lab in addition to the lecture/demonstration, but the students who participated in the lab completed their…

Discusses developments in desktop videoconferencing. Highlights include document conferencing, collaboration, software, equipment, vendors, standards, customer service, costs, connectivity, professional training, systems implementation, and future perspectives. Sidebars provide examples of videoconferencing, virtual classrooms, and training…

Describes a dedicated method for the design of multimedia courseware, called PROFIL, which integrates instructional design with software engineering techniques and incorporates media selection in the design methodology. The phases of development are outlined: preliminary investigation, definition, script, technical realization, implementation, and…

Surveys existing checklists and investigates the extent to which they enable the expression of useful assessments for software selection. Problems and limitations are noted, with an emphasis on predominantly technical attributes of packages at the expense of consideration of broader classroom environments and activities, learning processes, and…

Presents the results of a survey of 18 vendors of PC- and Mac-based multifunction library systems that include either circulation or patron access catalogs. Highlights include software alone or turnkey systems, operating systems, programming language, sales, profitability, and support staff. (LRW)

Features Internet sites that are sources for lesson plans, materials, group discussion topics, activities, test questions, computer software, and videos for K-12 education. Resources highlighted include CNN Newsroom, KidLink, and AskERIC. (AEF)

A key obstacle to using educational technology is limited support for teachers trying to integrate unfamiliar techniques into instruction. Research-verified technologies include calculators, distance education, drill and practice (CAI) systems, laser videodiscs, microcomputer-based labs, presentation software, and telecommunications. Emerging and…

The University of Calgary (Canada) medical school admissions process has been streamlined with the Student Admission to Medicine computer program, largely paperless, that creates a database from student applications. The database then converts grades to the university's standards and assists with administrative details, statistical analyses, and…

Reviews the DynaPulse 200M Education Edition microcomputer-based laboratory, which combines interactive software with curriculum and medical instrumentation to teach students about the cardiovascular system. (MKR)

Discusses the integration of CD-ROMs with online service producers. Highlights include publishing; LucasFilm's Habitat project; programs through Prodigy, CompuServe, America Online, and Philips Media; hybrid links to Internet sites; multiplayer games; virtual chat with avatars; and problems, including CD-ROM's slowness, download time, storage…