Describes several types of user devices (computers, laptops, personal digital assistants, telephones), explaining that they serve as a translator between technology's internal representation of information and what can be perceived, processed, and used by humans. Also addresses the use of information technology devices by people with disabilities…

Describes the connectivity features and options of modern campus communication and information system networks, including signal transmission (wire-based and wireless), signal switching, convergence of networks, and network assessment variables, to enable campus leaders to make sound future-oriented decisions. (EV)

Asserts that users and managers of information technology (IT) in higher education institutions need evolving skills as well as an awareness of how changing technology makes them dependent on each other in new ways. Describes the roles and skills of the core IT workforce, department managers, and universal users, and addresses training needs. (EV)

Discusses how the communication and information systems (CIS) infrastructure model is changing and explores the implications for higher education practices and purposes in this context of frequently disruptive but newly empowering technologies. (EV)

Discusses peer to peer technology which allows uploading files from one hard drive to another. Topics include the client/server model for education; the Napster client/server model; Gnutella; Freenet and other projects to allow the free exchange of information without censorship; bandwidth problems; copyright issues; metadata; and the United…

Reports on the responses of students using a computer algebra system (CAS) called DERIVE in an introductory calculus course at undergraduate level. Indicates that the use of this technology was a catalyst for students to use three types of learning strategies: (1) regularly using multiple representations, (2) discussing meaning with peers and…

Presents a study that used computer-based rat anatomy to compare student learning outcomes from computer-based instruction with a conventional dissection. Indicates that there was a significant relationship between the time spent on both classes and the marks gained. Shows that computer-based instruction can be a viable alternative to the use of…

Blended e-learning approaches combine the power of the Internet with existing class events or assignments. Inexpensive tools include electronic mail, keyboarding instruction, online research, streamed video or audio clips, message boards, chat rooms, scanned class reading assignments, and online assessments. IT buzzwords are decoded. (MLH)

Notes that one teacher's experiences in project-based online learning initiatives have informed her thinking about classroom-based learning and teaching practices and her work with students. Notes that, nine years later, their Holocaust/genocide theme-based Internet project involves students in over 16 countries. (SG)

Tailored descriptions of online educational resources can support users searching for educational resources on the World Wide Web (WWW) by helping them to assess for themselves the relevance and suitability of each resource. Suitable descriptions can be derived from the online metadata stored with each resource. The descriptions take into account…

This paper discusses programs that clarify some statistical ideas often discussed yet poorly understood by students. The programs adopt the approach of demonstrating what is happening, rather than using the computer to do the work for the students (and hide the understanding). The programs demonstrate normal probability plots, overfitting of…

E-books promise to become a widespread delivery mechanism for educational resources. However, current e-books do not take full advantage of the power of computing tools. In particular, interaction with the content is often reduced to navigation through the information. This article investigates how adding interactive visuals to an e-book…

Much has been written and discussed about the importance of getting presidents' and chancellor's support, buy-in and committment regarding investment in information technology and the accompanying faculty assistance. We need to reframe the IT issue to emphasize what people do with the tangible stuff thereby focusing the issue on knowledge creation…

Glen Bull's call for a research agenda for one-to-many computing (page 42 of this issue) raises a larger question: what is the status of a research agenda within education technology? This article first considers what a "research agenda" is in general. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines research as "studious inquiry or examination." (There's…

This article discusses PC reliability, one of the most pressing issues regarding computers. Nearly a quarter century after the introduction of the first IBM PC and the outset of the personal computer revolution, PCs have largely become commodities, with little differentiating one brand from another in terms of capability and performance. Most of…