Describes: the chemical history of a pencil; a simple solar camera for measuring the sun's diameter; the experimental comparison of the thermal stability of metal carbonates; and the introduction of the concept of weight as a force to young children. A computer program listing on color mixing is also provided. (JN)

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…

Describes the use of Zebu, a software tool accessed via a standard Web browser that is designed for constructing online collaborative-learning projects, with seventh-grade students. Discusses learning outcomes, student motivation, peer assessment and feedback, and class projects in poetry, social studies, and science. (LRW)

An effort to implement a schoolwide innovation concerning computer applications begun in the English Department of the Hauppauge Middle School on Long Island, New York, is described. The program was proposed and implemented through a series of meetings, discussions, workshops, and orientations for teachers and administrators. English teachers, who…

Reviews trends in computer assisted instruction (CAI) in Japan, focusing on authoring languages and mathematical model-based courseware development. The scale of personal computer use and types of courseware used in elementary and junior high schools is described, and an example of an intelligent CAI system is given. (Author/LRW)

Provides brief history of Structural Communication (SC) methodology and discusses its use for teaching eighth-grade literature. Examines strengths and weaknesses of SC in print and hypermedia formats, and discusses the computer-based implementation of this participatory method of instruction. (JKP)

Describes the design of a hypermedia application, "Set on Freedom," on the American civil rights movement and presents preliminary qualitative and quantitative research on its use in a seventh- and eighth-grade classroom. Results suggest that hypermedia applications can be designed to support development of historical thinking. (Contains…

Discussion of establishing students' values concerning the ethics of computer use highlights the design and development of a hypermedia program for eighth grade students that addresses computer ethics issues. Results of initial use of the program focus on the effect of cognitive style on students' learning. (eight references) (LRW)

Discussion of supportive text in hypermedia programs focuses on the motivational aspects of supportive text for young users. An example using the historical novel "Johnny Tremain," by Esther Forbes, is used to show how motivationally supportive text can encourage associative learning and show cross-disciplinary linkages of ideas and…

An overview of the NovaNET Computer System, a time-sharing networking computer system for the delivery of computer-based education, is followed by a description of the SYS IV system, which is used for management and record keeping in mathematics, reading, language arts, and spelling curricula. A description of lesson design features follows, along…

Designed to provide useful information for middle school teachers and administrators involved in planning and implementing microcomputer programs in their schools, this focus paper begins with a brief discussion of the "who, what, when, where, and why" of microcomputers in the schools, followed by discussions of two types of relevant research: the…

This project explored the potential of applying the technologies of computer-assisted instruction and expert systems to implementation of cognitive and metacognitive strategy instruction programs. A prototype program consisting of three computer-assisted instruction modules was developed to teach procedures required for the use of skimming,…

Discusses how technology can fit into a middle school curriculum. Highlights include examples of curriculum development; the Higher Order Thinking Skills program for math; instilling excitement in students; family involvement; the mission statement of the National Middle Schools Association; and a sidebar on early childhood education and school…

Describes a social studies assignment developed for Arizona eighth graders that focuses on Arizona history but also incorporates English, math, and computer programming skills to create a computer program about traveling through the state. Topics discussed include classroom management, computer requirements, community involvement, and interaction…

This paper discusses a model of integrated instruction and assessment called SMART (Special Multimedia Arenas for Refining Thinking). SMART involves interactive use of the Internet and multimedia software. The Internet serves three important functions: it acts as a formative assessment tool by providing individualized feedback to students, creates…