Creating educational software generally requires a great deal of computer expertise, and as a result, educators lacking such knowledge have largely been excluded from the design process. Recently, researchers have been designing tools for automating some aspects of building instructional applications. These tools typically aim for generality,…

Discusses a computer-assisted language learning model developed by the Didascalia center designed to comply with as many Belgian criteria as possible and based on contents and events in an object-oriented approach. Describes how the didacteme as basic object can enhance learner-content interaction and how this approach can lead to a new platform…

Discussion of the use of programming as a learning activity focuses on software-realized scaffolding. Emile, software that facilitates programming for modeling and simulation in physics, is described, and results of an evaluation of the use of Emile with high school students are reported. (Contains 95 references.) (LRW)

Addresses the nonuse and misuse of sound when designing instruction using educational technology and presents the Structured Sound Functions (SSF) Model to improve sound attribute research and scriptwriting guidelines. The preference for visual interfaces is discussed, including educational television (ETV), and the creation of sound-image…

Considers the possibility of designing CAI (computer-assisted instruction) systems that are managed by semantic networks. Topics discussed include general descriptions of the suggested approach, lesson-presentation modes, and the architecture of a CAI system managed by a semantic network. (10 references) (MES)

Discusses changes that have occurred in educational computing since 1983 and considers leadership needs for the future. Hardware and software are discussed; approaches to computers in the curriculum are reviewed; and developmental stages in involving a school district with computer use are explained, including the role of leadership at each stage.…

Discussion of interactive learning focuses on electronic-based interactive media environments. Highlights include changing definitions of knowledge and technology; definitions of interactivity; models of interactivity in computer use; implications for instructional design, including multimedia; and implications for teacher education and inservice…

Purpose: This paper proposes solutions to problems related to the maintenance and update of already existing e-learning courseware. Design/methodology/approach: A structured approach in form of a reference model for the re-engineering of existing educational material is presented. In this context, concepts already established in the area of…

A discussion of the evaluation of computer courseware looks at its history, the kinds of instruments developed for the purpose of evaluation, and evaluation trends. The first chapter presents three types of evaluation models: (1) those centered on educational objectives, (2) those centered on the use or value of a program, and (3) those…

This paper reviews briefly the essential characteristics of both invitational education and computer assisted instruction (CAI) and the ways in which coordination of these two models can produce stimulating and valuable educational experiences for students. A matrix illustrates the characteristics of CAI which can support the major values of…

Guidelines for purchasing computers and for curriculum planning are offered as a beginning for educators interested in computers. The first section includes eight steps to take in planning for a computer, a chart of a microcomputer infusion model, an article on rating the microcomputers, and guides to understanding the rating factors and computer…

This paper describes the creation and evaluation of a World Wide Web-based courseware module, using conceptual models based on constructivism, that teaches novices how to use the Internet for searching. Questionnaires and interviews were used to understand the difficulties of a group of novices. The conceptual model of the experts for the task was…

Reviews "Barriers and Bridges: Media Technology in Language Learning." The book's is divided into three main sections: "Back to Basics," which covers the exploitation of affordable and modest technology; "Small World," which discusses electronic mail; and "Big Bucks and Grand Plans," which addresses the…

Discusses advancements in multimedia technology, and presents a design model for managing interactive multimedia courseware production that includes five phases: analysis, development, production, evaluation, and implementation. Five examples of interactive multimedia courseware are described. (Author/LRW)

Discusses a new paradigm for choosing educational software, based on the perspectives of the teacher, student, and designer; describes a study of the use of this paradigm by a group of teachers. Results indicated the paradigm helped assessors to articulate a holistic awareness of educational issues, enabling a coherent review of pedagogical,…