This annual guide provides information on recommended software programs and multimedia applications for K-12 use. An introductory section describes the evaluation process and lists the highest-rated programs for 1998-99. The program entries are organized by the following subject areas: the arts, early childhood, health, language arts, mathematics,…

Changes in medical school curricula and teaching approach have led to an increased use in computer courseware and other technology. The traditional audiovisual library serving medical school students must redefine the role of the information provider to include helping students navigate networks; choosing and evaluating instructional materials;…

Describes a variety of software programs appropriate for whole-language learning. The software allows elementary students to make picture books and create posters, banners, greeting cards, puzzles, and minimovies and to do group writing activities. Also included is information on resources and computer reading packages. (SM)

Provides an annotated bibliography of up-to-date information on computer technology for geographic education in elementary schools. Suggests that, if teachers are made aware of the available resources of sophisticated computer technology, they will be better able to face the challenges in geography education. (AA)

Examines factors affecting selection and development of computer simulations, including type of learner, simulation formats, instructional purposes, learning outcomes, fidelity, learning stages, and logistical issues. A flowchart model and set of prescriptions to help designers arrive at specifications for an instructional simulation are…

Discusses three computer programs which students can use to develop practical skills: (1) "The Little Shoppers Kit," which teaches children about shopping, grocery stores, and nutrition; (2) "UltraKey," a typing skills program for elementary school students; and (3) "All the Right Type," a typing program for grades 4…

Suggestions for incorporating the computer into remedial reading programs are offered, focusing on student motivation, criteria for selecting good computer programs, and methods for involving students in nonthreatening ways. Thirteen software programs are recommended. (DB)

Presents criteria for selecting courseware for online classes. Highlights include ease of use, including navigation; assessment tools; advantages of Java-enabled courseware; advantages of Oracle databases, including scalability; future possibilities for multimedia technology; and open architecture that will integrate with other systems. (LRW)

College and university administrators everywhere are struggling with the challenges of trying to "do more with less" in terms of balancing mandates and resources. The Internet has enabled new approaches for teaching and learning, vast interinstitutional collaborations in humanities and scientific research, and a renewed focus on the…

This practicum report describes an instructional program designed to increase teacher awareness of the technological applications of musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) in the classroom. The primary goal of the study was to assist music teachers in becoming more informed about MIDI, and to enable them to effectively select the appropriate…

"Only the Best" is an Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) annual reference containing information on software programs and multimedia applications that have met stringent criteria for excellence. The purpose of this reference is to provide a quick and easy way for curriculum directors, technology coordinators, librarians,…

This paper documents the steps taken by Christopher Newport University (CNU) (Virginia) as it planned and implemented a World Wide Web-based education program in 1998-99. The paper begins by providing an overview of the context for distance education at CNU and detailing the history of both the institution and distance education. Next, the…

This exploratory investigation examined relations between teachers' views of knowledge acquisition and their use of computers in the classroom. A survey instrument that assessed views ranging from objectivism to constructivism is described; and teaching experience, demographic variables, and types of software programs likely to be used are…

This article considers the importance of using age-appropriate software for adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities and the difficulty in finding such software. It outlines suggested sources, ideas for screening and evaluating software, and seven steps in selecting software. (DB)

Provides an overview of developments in authoring tools and describes ways to categorize products by platform, type of end-product, sophistication of end-product, and authoring metaphor. Discusses products from AimTech, Allegiant, Allen Communication, Asymetrix, Corel, Discovery Systems International, Enigma, Harrow Media, Horizons, Innovus,…