Anthropomorphism can be defined as the attribution of human characteristics or behavior to inanimate objects. People give names to their automobiles and computers as a way to relate to complicated pieces of technology that they use regularly, but do not fully understand. Software designers may claim that their interfaces are intuitive, but in…

While the last decade has been marked by widespread advocacy for integrating information and communication technologies (ICTs) across school curriculum, teachers' understandings of the nature of electronic literacies in the learning process have received far less attention. This has been the case despite the accelerated growth, miniaturisation and…

In this article, the author provides an overview of the best instructional design and delivery practices for facilitating online courses. Many factors that contribute to effectively facilitating an online course are discussed, including student expectations and experience with technology, understanding the types of technologies used, effective…

This article argues that computer literacy is especially useful for medical students because it supports cognitive processes needed for effective learning and professional practice. Three approaches are compared: learning about computers, using computer-assisted instruction, and using computers in daily work. It is concluded that none is…

Argues that technological skills and self-efficacy with computers are as fundamental to education as are English, math, and science. Examines the debate over educational technology, concluding that researchers stressing the short-term learning outcomes and cost effectiveness of technology are overlooking its long-term consequences. (PEN)

Challenges research and prevailing attitudes that maintain that computers improve teaching and academic achievement. Criticizes and questions research methodology, computer literacy education, the need for computer skills to make a competitive workforce, support from the business community resulting from technology programs, and Internet use. (LRW)

This report, abstracted from a larger research study on children's emerging literacy, focuses on the use and influence of computers in the education of children seven years old and younger. Highlights include placement and introduction of computers in the classroom; benefits of working in groups; keyboarding; and research on program effectiveness.…

The 24 papers in these proceedings describe computer technology and its many applications to the educational process. Topics discussed include computer systems in the classroom of the future; how to evaluate a school's computer program; computer use in special education; computer science and the liberal arts; keyboarding issues; making the…

Discusses the adoption of computer technology for use in education in developing countries. Topics discussed include criteria for technology adoption; costs; instructional effectiveness; cost effectiveness; the concept of computer literacy; meeting job market demands; educational improvement; computer education policies; hardware and software…

Describes a study that compared the expressed objectives of teachers using computer-based information handling packages in the classroom against recorded classroom outcomes. The areas of skill and knowledge acquisition, learning strategies, sociopsychological issues, and life skills are discussed. (9 references) (CLB)

Two major areas of focus emerge from this synthesis of national reports: the question of how to teach students critical and autonomous judgement with regard to the mass media, and how best to use new information and communication technology (NICT) and the media for educational purposes. It is noted that, although there are differences of approach…

Observes the sorry state of computer and multimedia instruction integrated into history departments and places the blame squarely at the feet of support facilities that fail to keep up. Critiques online and CD-ROM resources. Suggests some basic and useful approaches for faculty. (MJP)