Facing the challenges of the digital age concerning lifelong learning, this contribution presents an approach to dynamically establish Connectivist communication networks. According the statement "the pipe is more important than the content within the pipe" by Georg Siemens, learning in digital age includes the connection of people to…

This article presents the case for a theory-informed approach to designing and evaluating representations for implementation in digital tools to support Learning Design, using the framework of epistemic efficacy as an example. This framework, which is rooted in the literature of cognitive psychology, is operationalised through dimensions of fit…

The past several decades have been times of widespread change in world economies. The 21st century has witnessed scientific technological innovations that have had an impact on almost every sector of our social institutions and the way we do things. To succeed in these changing economies and secure meaningful employment, STEM literacy and…

This paper describes the production of a software program for Master of Education students studying the "Introduction to Research Methods" course at a tertiary institution in Hong Kong. The course was originally delivered in a lecture mode, which proved unsatisfactory in providing sufficient learning support for the students. The paper…

This paper discusses how modern technologies are changing the teacher-student-content relationships from the conception to the delivery of so-called "distance" education courses. The concept of Distance Education has greatly evolved in the digital era of 21st Century. With the widespread use and access to the Internet, exponential growth…

Web3D open standards allow the delivery of interactive 3D virtual learning environments through the Internet, reaching potentially large numbers of learners worldwide, at any time. This paper introduces the educational use of virtual reality based on Web3D technologies. After briefly presenting the main Web3D technologies, we summarize the…

The prototype of a guided practice application was developed to instruct year 13 biology students in the process of DNA replication. The application uses a high degree of interaction to engage the student in a guided exploration and problem solving exercise. An evaluation revealed that the students showed considerable enthusiasm and significant…

Analyzes technological capabilities of the Web as a delivery platform for highly interactive learning resources, consistent with a constructivist view of learning. Shows that all of the required software capabilities can be implemented by Web technology and discusses barriers to use of the Web as a medium for such resources, including bandwidth.…

Discusses how to design courseware programs that integrate benefits of instructionism (linear instruction) and constructionism in a hypermedia structure. A model of feedback that fades in and out is suggested, four examples are explained, and suggestions for redesigning programs are given. (LRW)

Discusses constructivism and its integration of theory and practice, especially as it relates to online courses using interactive software. Highlights include situated-learning theory, cognitive-flexibility theory, and the design and implementation of two online courses. (LRW)

Introduces the Inventive Model, a constructivist approach to conceptual change, as a theoretical base for science instruction and for software development in science education. Highlights include the hesitancy of some school systems to implement computer-assisted science instruction, student misconceptions, and cognitive approaches to conceptual…

Discusses the use of multimedia software and the need to apply constructivist theories so students become more involved with the software, progressing from simply watching presentations to creating simulations. A project-based learning environment that uses MicroWorlds software is described that focuses on marine biology and oceanography. (LRW)

Outlines an investigation into the nature of metacognition and its relation to the learning process in a constructivist interactive multimedia learning environment. Topics include the relationship between metacognition and learning technologies (and an example), the learner's perspective, the designer's perspective, and the teacher's perspective.…

This paper speaks to the challenges, risks, and rewards of teaching about linear functions in a technology-rich environment from a constructivist perspective by describing a Foundations of Algebra class, which was designed and taught to junior high school students in such an environment in the summer of 1991. The design and implementation of the…

Analyzes the construction of mathematical concepts and techniques developed by high school algebra students in computer-assisted instruction; examines learning styles of the most inventive students; and discusses the use of student-generated mathematical techniques in the development of new software intended to cultivate mathematical inventiveness…