This article examines the literature on the theory of social presence and its relevancy to cognitive and affective learning in an asynchronous distance-learning environment. With the evolution of distance education, colleges and universities have found themselves on the cutting edge of an unprecedented new era. This review explores the…

Virtually every aspect of modern life has been changed and shaped by the computer's tiny, ubiquitous silicon chips. It is not surprising that computers have had a profound effect on the way students learn in the modern classroom. This topical bibliography and commentary focuses on how computers can be used to enhance the teaching of language arts.…

This paper explores whether new information technologies are appropriate for use with young children. The paper concentrates on theories related to young children's use of "new media." Sections are: (1) "Defining the New Media by Its Functions"; (2) "Constructivism and Interaction with New Media"; (3) "The…

Summarizes legal issues that pertain to the uses of information technology on campuses. Highlights privacy, freedom of expression, and intellectual property rights. Argues that understanding these legal and ethical issues is necessary in developing an appropriate campus policy. Provides guidance for developing a campus technology policy. (RJM)

This article reviews evidence regarding the role of speech-generating devices (SGDs) and talking word processing software in supporting independent spelling in children with autism. Two studies support the importance of assessing the relative benefits of feedback modes for individual learners with autism rather than assuming SGDs should supply…

"Broadband," the term for a variety of high-speed Internet options, opens up many opportunities for online classroom learning. Challenges for school districts include keeping the network running, training teachers, and paying for it. A sidebar lists broadband resources. (MLF)

Discussion of e-learning in special education personnel preparation focuses on student assessment in e-learning environments. It includes a review of the literature, lessons learned by the authors from assessing student performance in e-learning environments, a literature perspective on electronic portfolios in monitoring student progress, and the…

This article addresses the need for a conceptual approach to researching, e-learning instructional design and the technologies employed as a basis for e-learning. A programmatic research construct is offered for building a conceptual model. Three categories of variables are considered in building the construct: outcome, in situ, and independent…

This article discusses multicultural education and educational technology and the digital divide created by lack of access to and use of technology by members of various social identity groups. Educators are urged to re-think technology integration using a multicultural education framework. Useful online multicultural resources are listed.…

Presents multicultural materials that are useful for elementary, secondary, and college audiences. The selections represent quality electronic and microfilm products that can help educators, librarians, and researchers better understand ethnic and racial diversity nationally and internationally. Includes CD-ROM, CD/Web-based, Web-based, and…

Surveys and critiques what has been written about style checkers and text-editing capabilities of the computer to assist in revising technical writing. Finds the literature inconclusive largely because it is anecdotal and methodologically flawed. Suggests a new research agenda and focus. (KEH)

The article reviews a 10-year history of research on videodisc programs with handicapped and nonhandicapped students. A trend from hardware-intensive programs concerned with physical individualization and self-pacing to more modest hardware involvement and a greater attention to the teacher's role in both group and individual instructional…

Reports findings of studies investigating the influence of default values (i.e., excellent, good, or poor) on the evaluative behavior of students completing computerized instruments for rating instruction. Respondents who were exposed to the excellent default rated the instructor more favorably. Order and contiguity of items did not influence…

Recommends software to help teachers plan curriculum in the areas of comprehensive language arts ("Cornerstone"); writing and information ("Keroppi Day Hopper"); creative writing and imagination ("Imagination Express"); reading ("Jo-Jo's Reading Circus"); math ("Careers in Math: From Architects to Astronauts") and nature ("Eyewitness"). Provides…

Reviews distance-education technologies, their uses for rural schools, and related issues. Lists advantages and disadvantages for satellite TV teaching, microcomputer networks, and two-way TV instruction. Concludes that technologies' advantages outweigh disadvantages. Suggests final decision making and assessment depend on local program content…