This booklet discusses the following critical issues in evaluating the effectiveness of technology in education: (1) The effectiveness of technology is embedded in the effectiveness of other school improvement efforts; (2) Current practices for evaluating the impact of technology in education need broadening; (3) Standardized test scores offer…

This study describes and analyzes the use of CD-ROM talking books in a third grade classroom over a 4-month period. One area of interest was in how the teacher used the storybooks in day-to-day efforts to foster learning, especially in the area of language arts. Also examined was the sense children made of these media and the overall impact the…

Examines facets using multimedia to enhance learning. Highlights include product linkage and customization; flexibility for lesson plans; hypermedia authoring tools; student presentations; expense; incompatible and confusing systems; high memory demands; hardware standards for Windows and Macintosh programs; and CD-ROM products. (AEF)

Research on the motivational aspects of multimedia games may provide ways to design more engaging user information systems which increase users' exploratory and information-seeking behaviors. Two small-scale exploratory studies examined the effects of introducing information on the intrinsic motivation of users of a CD-ROM game. Results of the…

Multimedia techniques allow one to present information using text, video, animations, and sound. "Infotech Interactive" is a CD-ROM multimedia product developed to enhance an introductory computing concepts course. The software includes the following module topics: (1) "Mouse Basics"; (2) "Data into Information"; (3)…

This examination of microcomputer use in primary schools begins by comparing the national data for elementary schools for 1984-1985 with the findings of a study of seven elementary schools in the Anchorage (Alaska) School District (ASD) which was conducted in the same year. Current research findings are cited in a discussion of assumptions about…

There are many sources of professional development for K-6 teachers that help them learn how to use computers, but much less is available on how to use computers in classrooms to enhance learning. Members of the Department of Science and Mathematics Education at the University of Melbourne (Australia) have developed CLICK! (Computers and Learning…

This study evaluated the use of children's literature presented via one of three conditions: an adult reading a book to the child; the child reading a CD-ROM version of a book on the computer but without animation; and the child reading the book on the computer with high levels of animation. The study, in one primary grade classroom, involved 10…

This paper presents the results of three years of development and evaluation of a CD-ROM/Web hybrid simulation known as Brownfield Action for an introductory environmental science course at an independent college for women in the northeastern United States. Brownfield Action is a simulation that provides a learning environment for developing the…

Describes a CD-ROM product that simulates introducing a freshman congressman to Washington, DC. The member is briefed on duties and responsibilities (including a historical overview) and given a tour of the Capitol. Interactive components include hiring staffers and acquiring leadership positions. Includes suggestions for integrating the product…