Describes a computer-assisted simulation that was used to improve foreign language learning among engineering and teaching students. The use of telecommunications is discussed; the foreign policy orientation of the simulation is described; and the positive effects of the simulation on student motivation, independent learning, and cooperation are…

Suggests basic elements of spatial education appropriate to geographic information system (GIS) course curricula. Describes the need for integration of GIS education and GIS training. Discusses hardware/software configurations, approaches to the creation of laboratory facilities, and approaches, rationales, and technical considerations in the…

Describes MediaText, a multimedia document processor developed at the University of Michigan that allows the incorporation of video, music, sound, animations, still images, and text into one document. Interactive documents are discussed, and the need for users to be able to write documents as well as read them is emphasized. (four references) (LRW)

Discusses the possible lack of credibility in educational interactive computer simulations. Topics addressed include "Shopping on Mars," a collaborative adventure game for arithmetic calculation that uses direct manipulation in the microworld; the Alternative Reality Kit, a graphical animated environment for creating interactive…

Discusses the technologies of compact discs and laser discs. Describes how they can help teachers in the music classroom. Suggests that the new music computer technology enables students to examine music by listening to it, rather than using notation or other abstraction of the sounds. Suggests ideas for using multimedia for teaching music. (DK)

Discusses the use of computer simulations in an instructional context and emphasizes the need for learner support. The SIMULATE project (Simulation Authoring Tools Environment) is described, the concept of intelligent simulation learning environments (ISLEs) is explained, and a conceptual framework for articles included in this issue is presented.…

Addresses the issue of assuring quality software for use in computer-aided instruction and presents a structure by which developers can create quality courseware. Differences between courseware and computer-aided instruction software are discussed, methods for testing software are described, and human factors issues as well as instructional design…

Provides an overview of the articles in this issue that address the role of teachers and instructional technology; preservice teacher training in telecommunications; voice mail; courses using computer conferencing; and various aspects of software and courseware development and usage, including the portability of courseware to China. (LRW)

Describes Multimedia Educational Technology for Operational Research (MENTOR), a multimedia teaching and learning resource which takes the form of a comprehensive range of computer-based learning modules to be used in higher-education teaching. Funding by the Teaching and Learning Technology Programme (TLTP) and case studies in the United Kingdom…

This overview of development of Web-based college courses discusses: costs and benefits of Web tools; a 10-level Web integration continuum; a learner-centered view of Web learning; ways to embed critical thinking, creative thinking, and cooperative learning into Web-based courses; sample Web courses and tools; and pedagogical implications.…

Describes ongoing work in designing modular software components based on open standards and a specific instructional design theoryuinstructional transaction theory. Focuses on applied technological solutions to overcome identified limitations of current authoring environments, including proprietary architectures, instructional design theory…

Describes the development of a Web-based literacy learning software application called Technology Enhanced Learning Environment on the Web (TELE-Web) that was developed based on an existing literacy program for elementary school students with mild disabilities. Explores how technology is affected by literacy practices in educational contexts.…

Describes the development of an electronic language laboratory at the State University of New York College at Old Westbury. Topics include the selection of hardware and software, two English-as-a-Second-Language programs, integration into the classroom curriculum, and benefits of computer-assisted language instruction. (LRW)

Reviews research describing computer functions of construction-oriented computer environments and evaluates their contributions to students' learning of geometry. Topics discussed include constructing geometric concepts; the use of LOGO in elementary school mathematics; software that focuses on geometric construction; and implications for the…

Predictive evaluation of educational software is problematic because such instructional materials should be evaluated only setting by setting. A situated approach suggests that appropriate evaluation can be performed by considering interactions between the three principal actors in the development and use of the software: teacher, designer, and…