Three leaders in educational technology, Kathy Rock, David Thornburg, and Robert Tinker, respond to questions regarding the integration of educational technology in the classroom; obstacles; examples of the use of educational technology; and recommendations for restructuring schools and classrooms. (DMM)

Using computers in field classes makes it possible to do educationally-desirable things which are very difficult or impossible without their assistance. They allow students to have a much greater sense of involvement in the projects and a greater sense of achievement. Such advantages are illustrated by two exercises in which field class computing…

Discusses the evaluation of the usefulness of multimedia materials in medical education. Approaches the issue by looking at the nature of the knowledge that medical professionals are expected to acquire and relating that knowledge to what multimedia applications have to offer. Multimedia applications must also be analyzed for whether they can…

This book describes exemplary uses of technology in several schools in the Southeastern United States. Educators throughout the region were invited to nominate programs that demonstrate effective uses of technology for instruction. A panel of experts chose the 12 most outstanding examples. The descriptions provide contact information and, if…

This book describes trends in technology and learning that are influencing community colleges. Chapter 1, presenting results from a 3-year, 700 college study, concludes that colleges will become more learning-centered, find it difficult to maintain services and open access as student demands increase and resources shrink, form more partnerships,…

Reviews the use of microcomputers in the art studio and classrooms. Argues that there is a lack of effective software for art education, but that computers are useful for enhancing standard visual grammar. Suggests that the most legitimate educational use of computers is employing them to discover new ideas in better ways. (GG)

Reviews research on the instructional benefits of computer technology. Discusses the computer readiness of students, faculty, and institutions, and suggests that despite mixed findings, political and organizational realities indicate computer-based instruction is a feasible alternative for community colleges. Therefore, educators should continue…

Argues that there are no generalizations about what features of technology or software type makes computer-assisted learning (CAL) successful. "Niche based success" comes from a close fit between a piece of courseware and its situation of use that is specific to that niche. Discusses teacher analysis of weak existing situations and how…

Suggests that to best appreciate technology, one should be able to leap between aesthetic and technological mindsets, between poetry and computers. Illustrates how the inevitable breakdowns in technologically-assisted learning can be used as opportunities to "flex one's creativity." (AEF)

Traces the origin, changes, and current status of the PLATO system at the University of Illinois. Highlights the program's benefits to students, its adaptations, and its establishment of large networking systems. (ML)

Identifies problems students have learning physics and explains how microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) tools can help the learner. Describes the possibilities for instruction with MBL instruments and stresses the pedagogical advantages it has in the sciences. (ML)

NEA Teacher-to-Teacher Books are designed to promote team building, to enhance collegial leadership, and to give all K-12 teachers ideas and strategies for improving student learning. This book describes the personal odysseys of six teachers who have used technology to transform their teaching. Each story illustrates step-by-step how the teachers…

Discusses the use of virtual reality in educational software. Topics include CAVE (Computer-Assisted Virtual Environments); cost-effective virtual environment tools including QTVR (Quick Time Virtual Reality); interactive exercises; educational criteria for technology-based educational tools; and examples of screen displays. (LRW)

Defines computer conferencing as teaching that involves students performing their learning activities in shared (networked) computer workplaces. Asserts that lecturing does not ensure learning, nor is it effective in showing students how to learn independently. Presents computer conferencing as a practical way to merge instructivism and…

A review of the literature on the use of the computer in teaching reading included studies that centered on basic reading skills and studies that, for the most part, supported the use of computer assisted instruction (CAI) to assist in developing these skills. The research indicated that CAI in reading is effective for a wide variety of reading…