Discusses uses of scanning (process of copying or converting text, images, and objects into information that the computer can recognize and manipulate) in schools and notes possible desktop publishing projects. Describes popular scanners and ways to edit a scanned image. A sidebar gives costs and telephone numbers for nine scanners. (AEF)

Examines which of three portable computers--AlphaSmart, DreamWriter, and Apple eMate--is the best choice for the classroom. The DreamWriter was selected as having the best combination of price and functionality, while the eMate is the choice if money is no object or the extra functionality is needed; the AlphaSmart has the benefit of a proven…

Traces the evolution of the Curry Teaching Simulations and their impact on preservice and experienced teachers during the past 16 years. Highlights include versatility in software; navigation; pedagogical assumptions, including transfer of learning; and research on training skills and on teaching patterns. (Author/LRW)

Examines contributions of computer-assisted reading software (CARS) to current teaching practice. Presented framework for evaluating the technical and pedagogic characteristics of CARS. Described case study using proposed framework to evaluate the use of talking books software in British schools. Cognitive and affective benefits are identified.…

Efforts to integrate technology into elementary and secondary education will not succeed without the involvement of higher education. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has programs to train inservice teachers in technology, a space flight simulator for hands-on education, and connections to schools that will assure new teachers'…

This paper examines how computer technology changes the nature of experience and knowledge through the philosophical lens of phenomenologist Don Ihde, suggesting that educators must increase their awareness of the ways that computer technologies modify, extend, and transform the nature of experience in the classroom. (SM)

Outlines the components of a technology center that supports over 5,000 students per semester. Discusses instructional computing environment and consistent student interface, management system, gradebook, classroom, networking, and application software. Concludes that the integration of computer-based instruction, multimedia presentations,…

This article reviews evidence regarding the role of speech-generating devices (SGDs) and talking word processing software in supporting independent spelling in children with autism. Two studies support the importance of assessing the relative benefits of feedback modes for individual learners with autism rather than assuming SGDs should supply…

This article describes the Michigan Teacher Technology Initiative, a program currently being implemented that provides a one-time investment (not to exceed $1,200) of technology to teachers. Professional development courses that teach general and special education teachers strategies for integrating technology into the curriculum are also…

This review explains how agent-based software technology works, discusses features of agent-based software that make it appropriate for students with disabilities, and describes a few current applications. It highlights the benefits of allowing students to interact with a friendly animated character but still be exposed to realistic images.…

Discusses the crucial position of the chief information officer (CIO) at higher education institutions and reviews the six major stages of information technology (IT) planning. Includes fundamental elements related to an IT vision; roles of the CIO; the six-stage planning model for a realistic IT vision; and factors for success. (AEF)

"Broadband," the term for a variety of high-speed Internet options, opens up many opportunities for online classroom learning. Challenges for school districts include keeping the network running, training teachers, and paying for it. A sidebar lists broadband resources. (MLF)

Summarizes the results of a meeting of activists from the field of instructional technology who consider the likely impact instructional technology will make on the future science curriculum. Contains 17 references. (DDR)

Higher education's response to crisis must focus on developing institutions' competitive advantage. Technology is the basis on which institutional renewal must occur. American higher education is not using technology intelligently because it is driven by teaching, not learning. Today's technology fundamentally changes the relationship between…

This article addresses the need for a conceptual approach to researching, e-learning instructional design and the technologies employed as a basis for e-learning. A programmatic research construct is offered for building a conceptual model. Three categories of variables are considered in building the construct: outcome, in situ, and independent…