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)

Considers the effects of an Integrated Learning System (ILS) on the mathematics test scores of elementary school children. Results indicate that ILS software had its greatest effect on mathematics concepts scores, which is contrary to the commonly held opinion that mathematics software is effective primarily in drill and practice of computational…

This article provides teachers a framework for choosing computer software to assist with writing instruction for students with learning disabilities. The various writing problems that software programs can address are described. Appendices include a writing needs checklist, writing requirements checklist, and list of features of computer-supported…

Discusses the design and maintenance of computer-based teaching and learning environments and illustrates consequences of evolution and change in Web-based courses. Focuses on changes in content; format of the course; infrastructure, including hardware, systems, and software; and pedagogy, or instructional design, including knowledge modeling,…

The Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful computer-based system for entering, storing, manipulating, analyzing, and displaying geographic or spatial data. Presents a description of GIS, reasons for having this technology at universities, and potential limitations of the system. Possible ways to overcome problems are offered. Includes…

Presents guidelines for moderating online educational computer conferences. Explains how to prepare for the conference, including becoming familiar with the software and developing a contract with students to ensure their participation; discusses ongoing conference activities, including focusing the discussion; and relates common problems and…

Provides an overview of Learning Management System (LMS) software, which is necessary for the creation of a Virtual Centre for Foreign Language Learning. Also describes a new discipline called Web Assisted Language Learning (WALL), which can be broken down into three areas: the Web as a source of resources; the Web as a window of multimedia…

Presents one of the world's first prototypes of language learning software for smart-phones. Tele-EnREDando.com is an Internet based multimedia application designed for 3G mobile phones with audio, video, and interactive exercises for learning Spanish for business. (Author/VWL)

Discusses the concept of intelligence and the extent to which it is present in intelligent tutoring systems and intelligent computer-assisted instruction. Topics discussed include courseware evaluation; artificial intelligence; the degree of learner control; knowledge acquisition; fault tolerance; and feedback and self-evaluation. (23 references)…

The article focuses on the first two of six elements of effective instruction (warm-up and introductory activity) and applies them to the use of computer software aids in special education. Examples of suitable warm-up and introductory activities are provided. (DB)

A nationwide search to locate noncommercial instructional software appropriate for students with severe, multiple handicaps found 46 Apple II programs. Common curriculum areas were cause-and-effect training, language and communication, and cognitive development. Authoring programs were common, whereas academic programs were rare. The most typical…

Presents some general principles about using computers in writing instruction. Describes several categories of computer software, including word processing, pre-writing programs, revision tools, text analysis, and tutorials. Answers several questions commonly asked about computer programs in writing instruction. (MM)

Examines the work of five researchers who have conducted studies of writing with computers or writing with computer-assisted instruction in the following areas: composing with word processing; writing improvement attributed to computers; instructional software; computer networks for writing; and collaborative writing through telecommunications.…

A teacher of hearing-impaired students describes commercially available software for teaching sign language and finger spelling, lists sources of information about other software programs, and offers suggestions to encourage teachers to utilize computers in their classrooms. (JDD)

Presents a calculator-type computer program, CLICAL, in conjunction with complex number, vector, and other geometric algebra computations. Compares the CLICAL with other symbolic programs for algebra. (Author/YP)