Reviews the literature from the mid-1980s to the present on teachers' attitudes toward computers in the following areas: (1) perceptions of computers; (2) impact of computer use on attitude; and (3) impact of personal and learning environment characteristics. A generally positive attitude is noted as well as several concerns about computers in the…

Investigates the historical nature of hypertext research on reading and writing. Examines selected literature published between 1987 and 1994, showing that this literature does not move beyond asserting "opportunity" and "potential" when describing the use of hypertext in the writing classroom. Proposes a theoretical and pedagogical agenda for…

Examines theoretical and conceptual issues around promoting the growth of virtual learning communities and considers issues around using communication technologies in formal and informal learning environments. Highlights include: the theoretical context of community; categories for examining virtual learning communities; emphases of virtual…

Many students with learning difficulties have trouble solving mathematical word problems. Presents DISCOVER, an intelligent tutoring system that teaches students this task with less failure and frustration. Features a review of literature on word problem instruction, an explanation of intelligent tutoring systems, and a description of DISCOVER.…

Student information systems, one of the first applications of computer technology in education, are undergoing a significant transition yet again. The first major shift in SIS technologies occurred about 15 years ago when they evolved from mainframe programs to client-server solutions. Now, vendors across the board are offering centralized…

In 1991 Mark Weiser introduced the idea of ubiquitous computing: a world in which computers and associated technologies become invisible, and thus indistinguishable from everyday life. This invisible computing is accomplished by means of "embodied virtuality," the process of drawing computers into the physical world. Weiser proposed that…

A review of selected literature suggests that integrating multimedia computer supports with activity schedules can be an effective way to teach students to manage their work, play, and skill-building activities independently. Activity schedules originally were a means of promoting independent execution of previously learned responses by using…

The electronic periodical may be defined as a publication that is not on paper but is rather created and stored by electronic means. That is, the electronic periodical is written, edited, refereed, and distributed by means of machine-readable files that are distributed via a telecommunications system. For the scholar, the electronic periodical may…

How educators, especially those in the field of literacy, view and make use of email and its text-based features has been the subject of research. Journal articles addressing what educators and researchers know about email and how they work with email communication were reviewed. Email has moved from a limited group of users to the masses.…

One of a series of educational packages designed for implementation either in a workshop atmosphere or through individual study, this Hot Topic guide presents a variety of materials to assist educators in designing and implementing classroom projects and activities centering on the topic of the Internet and the K-12 classroom. The Hot Topic guide…

This update on computer technology--as it affects learning assistance directors and developmental education personnel--begins by reporting on new developments and changes that have taken place during the past two years in five areas: (1) hardware (microcomputer systems, low cost PC clones, combination Apple/PC machines, lab computer controllers…

Provides an overview of the capabilities and potential educational applications of CD-ROM (compact disk read-only memory), artificial intelligence, and speech technology. Highlights include reference materials on CD-ROM; current developments in CD-I (compact disk interactive); synthesized and digital speech for microcomputers, including specific…

The research literature on the effect of computer assisted writing with disabled and non-disabled persons is reviewed. Covered are research on: composing processes, composing with computers, software for intervening in the composing process (e.g. drill and practice, text analysis, simulations); and developing writers. (DB)

Outlines the services that telecommunications technology can provide for historical research. Examines online research procedures. Reviews Scholar Net, a new telecommunications network designed specifically for the humanities and social sciences. (BSR)

The article examines characteristics and present or potential applications of expert systems technology for diagnosis and treatment of learning disabilities. Preliminary findings indicate that expert systems can perform as well as humans in specific areas, and that the process of organizing knowledge bases for expert systems helps clarify existing…