As tablet technologies continue to evolve, the emergence of educational applications (apps) is impacting the work of teacher educators. Beyond online lists of best apps for education and recommendations from colleagues, teacher educators have few resources available to support their teaching of how to select educational apps. In response, this…

Mobile technology has transformed the way consumers access and use information. The exponential growth of mobile apps makes finding suitable, easy-to-use nutrition and health-related apps challenging. A guide for consumers helps them ask important questions before downloading apps. The guide can be adapted for other Extension disciplines.

Having trouble finding the right app? In this article, Kevin Larkin discusses the difficulties teachers encounter when searching the App Store for high quality, appropriate apps that support students' mathematical learning. Kevin provides a useful link to a collection of over 100 app reviews.

In October 2012, Microsoft will release the commercial version of its next operating system, presently called "Windows 8." This version represents a significant departure from the past. Microsoft wants this operating system to meet user needs regardless of physical platform (e.g., desktop, notebook, tablet, mobile phone). As part of this mission,…

Instructors are under pressure to integrate technology into their traditional or online instruction, but often they aren't sure what to do or why they should do it. The "Technology Toolbelt for Teaching" offers instructors a down-to-earth guide to common technologies, explains the pedagogical purposes they serve, and shows how they can be used…

Total cost of ownership (T.C.O.) and return on investment (R.O.I.) are factors to remember when planning technology investment. Additionally questions relating to the purpose of the new technology and the connected hardware and software purchases need to be asked when contemplating purchase of new technology.

This booklet presents questions and answers on everything from how to find out what technology students will need for college to ideas for handling technology emergencies when they are there at college. Information and selected resources are provided under the following questions that head each section: "How do I find out what technology I should…

This paper describes the integration of computers into two preschool classrooms in the Child Development Laboratories at the University of Tennessee. Before the placement of the computers in fall 1996, conversations with teachers revealed concerns about how best to use the computers. As a result of these discussions, a plan for training and…

Discusses the use of technology in training and higher education. Considers current technologies; establishing a vision before implementing technology; needs assessment; hardware and software considerations; facility limitations; design considerations; curriculum support; and student and instructor needs. (LRW)

For most districts, the dream of arming their students and fellow educators with laptops--perhaps reaching the vaunted status of being a one-to-one school--holds a powerful appeal. Yet whether a district is making that push to get laptops into the hands of each student or simply considering upgrades to mobile carts, districts are facing no…

Discusses desktop video, including its use as an educational tool; interactivity; teleconferencing; equipment requirements; the role of the TBC (time-based corrector) which adjusts incoming video signals and retimes them; creating graphics; transmitting live video over the Internet; Edit Decision List software; hardware requirements; and digital…

Discusses the distinctions made between hardware and technology as applied to distance education. Highlights include hardware and technology in the planning process, media-delivery systems in higher education, communication in teaching and learning, and new definitions of educational technology. (LRW)

Examines which of three portable computers--AlphaSmart, DreamWriter, and Apple eMate--is the best choice for the classroom. The DreamWriter was selected as having the best combination of price and functionality, while the eMate is the choice if money is no object or the extra functionality is needed; the AlphaSmart has the benefit of a proven…

Examines the primary considerations in choosing a computer for Web access in a school setting: (1) Internet connection; (2) operating system; (3) processor and memory; (4) video subsystem; (5) audio; and (6) hard disk. Suggests having both a budget and a high-end personal computer. (AEF)

Discussion of an organizational change at the University of Wisconsin that merged two departments to create the Instructional Technology Center highlights staffing, including staff training and development; space and physical renovation; hardware and software acquisition; the use of multimedia; and implementing a new core curriculum. (LRW)