Describes a science activity done with sixth graders during a unit on outer space. Uses the "Discovery Lab" software program to introduce controlled and experimental variables to the children. Discusses the coordination of library research, computer time, and creative drawing to study planetary environments by designing representative aliens. (CW)

I taught 4 types of EFL courses to undergraduate students online: Grammar, writing, culture and study skills using Blackboard and Nicenet. Online instruction was used as a supplement to traditional in-class instruction. Significant differences were found between pre- and post-test scores in writing, grammar and culture but not in study skills. The…

Since the first edition of "Schools and Data", the No Child Left Behind Act has swept the country, and data-based decision making is no longer an option for educators. Today's educational climate makes it imperative for all schools to collect data and use statistical analysis to help create clear goals and recognize strategies for…

A critical first step in developing training systems is gathering quality information about a trainee's competency in a skill or knowledge domain. Such information includes an estimate of what the trainee knows prior to training, how much has been learned from training, how well the trainee may perform in future task situations, and whether to…

Based on findings that poorer schools tend to use computers mainly for drill work, while richer ones often use them for other purposes, such as supporting research and creativity, this project aimed to increase the understanding of how to best support teachers in inner-city schools. The project worked intensively with teachers from two inner-city…

The Copernicus Project is a multi-district effort designed to incorporate technology, specifically the laptop computer, into the instructional and learning process of the public schools. Participants included six school districts in Washington state, the Toshiba and Microsoft Corporations, and parents. The project called for a 1 to 1…

This journal issue focuses on natural and humanmade structures. In addition to sidebars of features, an annotated list of resources for grades K-8 is provided, including Web sites; CD-ROMs and software; videos; and books. Additional resources, activities, and a subject index are also included. (AEF)

Explored responses to interactive multimedia by 3- to 5-year-olds through examination of verbal and facial expressions, use of mouse, body movement, attitudes toward multimedia, and teacher comments. Found great interest in using the technology and little difficulty in adjusting to developmentally appropriate materials, which has implications for…

Describes Ontario Ministry of Education efforts to provide microcomputer facilities for schools, facilitate software development, reinforce the ministry's philosophy of education, and stimulate the Canadian computer and software industry. Provides historical perspective and notes recent initiatives taken. (MVL)

Discusses producing effective instructional software using a balance of course content and technological capabilities. Describes six phases of an instructional development model: discovery, design, development, coding, documentation, and delivery. Notes that good instructional design should have learner/computer interaction, sequencing of…

Describes eight uses of the microcomputer in the chemistry classroom. Includes games, simulations, and graphics programs most of which are available from Project SERAPHIM. (MVL)

Provides reviews of two CD-ROM products currently available for social studies education. Describes the content, technical requirements, and instructional strategies of "Who Built America?" and "The Revolutionary War." Also contains a review of a videotape about the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. (CFR)

Reports on a study about the influence of different writing tools and classroom environments on students' writing processes and achievement. Finds that using computers rather than pen-and-paper writing was less teacher dominated and more student independent. Discusses implications of the study. (CFR)

Maintains that, although exciting computer programs are available for U.S. history, not all of them support the curriculum of the California History-Social Science Framework. Focuses on computer software programs that target problem solving, decision making, and tool-based programs that support the California curriculum. (CFR)

Presents a piece-by-piece description of everything an educator needs for a one-computer music classroom. Provides detailed comparisons between the Macintosh and IBM compatible and gives current prices for all pieces of equipment. Defines and describes related software and provides some beginning instructional advice. (MJP)