This paper describes the online course, Pedagogy in Open Learning, offered by NITOL (Norwaynet with Information Technology for Open Learning). Target groups are teachers, developers, and providers of ODL (Open and Distance Learning). The main goal is to prepare a basis for development and applications of ODL material that uses ICT (Information and…

The second of the Pew Symposia in Learning and Technology, whose purpose is to conduct an ongoing national conversation about issues related to the intersection of learning and technology, focused on policy issues related to the development and ownership of online courses and course materials. This paper builds on the work of participants, and…

This article is the third in a series addressing the use of new technologies to help physical educators with instruction and assessment. It focuses on the student multimedia project as an assessment tool, discussing the software used for multimedia projects, multimedia in physical education, and integrating technology and sport into the…

Introduces global positioning system (GPS) technology to nonspecialist geographers and recommends a framework for implementing GPS instructional modules in college geography courses. GPS was developed as a worldwide satellite-based system by the U.S. Department of Defense to simplify and improve military and civilian navigation and positioning.…

Outlines the teaching environment that led to the conception of a digital tutor for teaching the concepts and techniques of geographic information systems (GIS). Explains the design and prototyping, introduces the tutor's capabilities, and shares insights gained from using this teaching aid. Includes teachers' and students' responses. (MJP)

Reviews the limited research on computer software alternatives to actual dissection in biology instruction. Concludes that research should include larger more representative samples; higher priority on psychometrically sound instrumentation; a paper-based comparison group; a design that carefully considers attitude; and practical measures to…

Electronic mail, the World Wide Web, and listservs can be used in exercises in undergraduate sociology courses. This article briefly describes "Seminar Sheet," an individual exercise in collecting Web-based information to be shared in the classroom; establishing instructor/student communication through e-mail assignments; and having students…

Discusses the benefits of laptop computers in higher education, including students' increased motivation, performance, cooperative learning and critical thinking. Describes a Microsoft/Toshiba pilot laptop learning program, technology implementation models for schools, changes in teaching and learning, and teacher training. (AEF)

Describes the process by which Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (New York), beginning in the 1980s, became a leader in computer applications in college instruction. Focus is on the leadership provided by the administration and the process of reengineering institutional operations in many instructional and administrative areas. Outlines three…

Summarizes recent developments in student-centered open-ended learning environments, which provide electronic tools and resources for students to use in addressing authentic situated problems and to support students' thinking and problem-solving processes. Also analyzes issues in design and utilization and presents implications for teaching,…

Reviews children's software packages: (1) "Fun 'N Games"--nonviolent games and activities; (2) "Putt-Putt Saves the Zoo"--matching, logic games, and animal facts; (3) "Big Job"--12 logic games with video from job sites; (4) "JumpStart First Grade"--15 activities introducing typical school lessons; and (5) "Read, Write, & Type!"--progressively…

Provides a brief but useful introduction to resources and applications of the Internet for social studies teachers. Discusses the technical relationships among the Internet, servers, and hypertext. Describes useful sites including the "K-12 History on the Internet Resource Guide." (MJP)

Provides a table of web sites and site descriptions corresponding to specific articles in this issue. Topics include grocery store math, math olympics, and marine education. (SD)

A university-school correspondence partnership project was designed to enhance student teachers' multicultural awareness and understanding. This electronic mail-based project had undergraduates interact with culturally and experientially diverse students. The project provided many teachable moments, which resulted in contextualized understanding…

Encourages educators to address the following issues related to the use of technology: (1) role of teacher evaluation; (2) benefits of appropriate use; (3) integration into learning environment; (4) equitable access, especially for children with special needs; (5) stereotyping and violence in software; (6) role of teachers and parents as…