The article critiques the innovative policy documents constructing New Zealand early childhood pedagogies since the advent of the first curriculum "Te Whariki" (1996) and argues that the two most compelling of these reflect the consumerist experiences of childhood today. The acclaim which followed the publication of "Te…

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a dynamic software simulation on the understanding of the kinetic molecular theory by 7th graders. Students in the control group (n = 62) studied a curricular unit that addressed the differences in arrangement and motion of molecules in the three phases of matter. The experimental group (n…

While "school culture" is a topical issue, there is some consensus on a knowledge deficit regarding its subterranean dynamics and influence on change effort. This article describes an exploration of the mediation of a values-related change effort by school culture in Irish post-primary schools from the perspective of a research project…

Many preservice teachers report having had little exposure on the use of technology in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Without guidance on the appropriate use of technology, prospective teachers are left to form their own beliefs about what is appropriate technology use. This study assessed preservice teacher beliefs and conceptions of…

This study investigated the collaborative decision-making and communicative discourse of groups of learners engaged in a simulated medical emergency in two conditions. In one condition subgroups used a traditional whiteboard (TW group) to document medical arguments on how to solve a medical emergency. In the other condition subgroups used…

This article describes the impact that the Technology in Mathematics Education (TIME) Project had on participating middle level and secondary mathematics teachers' preparedness to teach through technology. Results indicate that the TIME Project positively impacted participants' perceptions of their knowledge of technological resources and methods…

This paper offers a review of the origins, design strategy and implementation plans of the Teacher Education in Sub-Saharan Africa (TESSA) research and development programme. The programme is working to develop new models of teacher education, particularly school based training, including the creation of a programme webspace and an extensive bank…

The current study describes the nature of physical education teacher education (PETE) programs in the United States. Of the 200 institutions of higher education invited to participate, 116 PETE programs completed a comprehensive questionnaire regarding their undergraduate programs (58% response rate). Respondents reported employing an average of…

This report provides an update about innovative uses of information and communication technology (ICT) for distance education and training in South Asia. Particular focus is given to ICT initiatives in India, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, at university level, and in non-formal interventions. Lessons learned from these countries are of value to any…

Learner analysis and needs assessments are basic elements of all instructional design models and are of concern to those designing distance education courses. This investigation surveyed 249 geographically dispersed online students' computer skills and attitudes toward Internet-delivered instruction. Results were assessed by demographics. Results…

This study investigated the perspectives of teachers in an early childhood center concerning their thoughts and feelings about the implementation of a school wide assistive technology (AT) program designed to enhance emergent literacy skills for children identified as being at-risk or having special needs. Qualitative methodology was used to gain…

This paper reports on the design and testing of an electronic multimedia bulletin board called the Multimedia Forum Kiosk (MFK). This software tool was designed to support collaborative discourse between multiple participants. The MFK supports students' knowledge building as they read about issues, reflect on comments, and develop a point of view.…

This study examined similarities and differences among 15 computer-assisted career guidance (CACG) systems: (1) the Career Information System; (2) Choices; (3) Choices CT; (4) Choices Jr; (5) MODULAR C-LECT; (6) COIN; (7) COIN Jr; (8) DISCOVER for Colleges and Adults; (9) DISCOVER for High Schools; (10) DISCOVER for Junior High and Middle Schools;…

Computers have a legitimate place in early childhood classrooms, provided that attention is given to appropriate software, location, and access. Software should be meaningful, be relevant to the early childhood curriculum, and meet children's needs. Word processing is one of the most appropriate ways to introduce computers into early childhood…

A rationale for introducing computers in early childhood education in Hong Kong is presented. Findings from a survey of computer use in preschools, and case studies of preschools in which children use computers but do not achieve desired results, provide the background for this discussion. Arguments advanced for the use of computers concern…