Describes the use of interactive whiteboards, a new type of instructional presentation technology that allows users to control computer applications from the board. Highlights include vendors; multimedia online instruction; rear-projection models; examples of classroom uses; contests and opportunities for schools to obtain interactive whiteboards;…

Defines a rubric as a set of scaled criteria, one of several methods recommended for student performance assessment. Topics include classification of performance; evaluating academic and social skills; advantages and disadvantages; types of rubrics; and rubrics for information literacy. (LRW)

Considers the future of children's books and reading in light of the increased use of the Internet. Misgivings about the Internet are discussed, centering around the unauthoritative nature of the information available. (LRW)

Describes digital photography--an electronic imaging technology that merges computer capabilities with traditional photography--and its uses in education. Discusses how a filmless camera works, types of filmless cameras, advantages and disadvantages, and educational applications of the consumer digital cameras. (AEF)

Considers the differences between the use of printed materials and Web sites for reference, including technology problems, currency, and lack of depth on the Web. Reviews several examples of quality print reference books related to food, recipes, and culture that are suitable for school libraries. (LRW)

Reviews four articles from the "Phi Delta Kappan" that describe the educational context impacting the school library media profession. Topics covered include the educational system from the viewpoint of the National Commission on Excellence in Education report "A Nation at Risk"; strengths and weaknesses of American education;…

Discusses the growing problem of violence in schools and communities. Emphasizes the need for school library media programs to provide information related to concerns about violence. Provides an annotated bibliography of solution-oriented print and web-related resources, programs to increase mutual respect among students and school staff, and…

Discussion of ways to improve student focuses on the simple concept of letting students read whatever they choose, including comic books or so-called trashy books. Barriers to this approach are discussed, including the difficulty in breaking away from past practices and academic research that is unhelpful to practitioners. (LRW)

Discusses learning activities on the Internet, and the need to protect students from pornography while also providing for intellectual freedom. Notes the importance of developing a selection policy, involving the community in censorship versus selection discussions, and talking with children and their parents. Provides a list of Web sites for…

Describes "The Electric Library" (TM), a database (which can be searched via an Internet connection) designed to assist schools, librarians, and parents with information retrieval. Discusses technical and logistical benefits, the problem of selected and limited resources, and cost issues. Provides a sample debate topic exercise using "The Electric…

Discusses the role of the school library media specialist in developing and providing programs of prevention and intervention for students experiencing problems with drugs, rape, divorce, suicide, neglect, and other crises. Resources from the ERIC database are listed, and the Child Abuse and Neglect database is described. (LRW)

Describes the advantages and disadvantages of using CD-ROM in the school library media center. Complaints about hardware, software, user problems, staffing, and funding reported by 67 library media specialists responding to a survey are included; and 15 steps for implementing CD-ROM technology are provided. (KRN)

Discusses problems confronting school library media centers, including a lack of telephones for computer network access, a lack of professional personnel, and a lack of flexible scheduling. It is suggested that leadership roles, as well as membership in local and national organizations, are necessary to address these issues. (LRW)

Provides suggestions for continuing library instruction while the school library media center is indefinitely closed. Discusses planning, gathering materials on a rolling cart, loaning materials to teachers, keeping records, "filler" activities, field trips to the public library, and meeting with the principal. Presents solutions to two potential…

Describes the possibilities for establishing a summer program at school library media centers. Highlights include funding; publicity and publications; staffing, including parent and teacher volunteers and student aids; scheduling; student participation, including preschoolers; problems; and facilities and equipment. (LRW)