This study lies at an intersection between advancing educational data mining methods for detecting students' knowledge-in-action and the broader question of how conceptual and mathematical forms of knowing interact in exploring complex chemical systems. More specifically, it investigates students' inquiry actions in three computer-based models of…

Should an intelligent software tutor be polite, in an effort to motivate and cajole students to learn, or should it use more direct language? If it should be polite, under what conditions? In a series of studies in different contexts (e.g., lab versus classroom) with a variety of students (e.g., low prior knowledge versus high prior knowledge),…

Describes the development of virtual lectures that were digitally recorded and discusses an analysis of their use by undergraduate students. Results of log-file analysis and pre-course and post-course questionnaires indicate that mode of delivery, student usage, and prior computer experience have no impact on overall exam performance. (Author/LRW)

Reviews evaluations of CAL (computer-assisted learning) in use at the University of Glasgow (Scotland). Topics include methods used; prior knowledge; learning motivation; attitude measures; confidence logs; knowledge quizzes; study habits; Hawthorne effects; formative, summative, illuminative, and integrative evaluation; quality assurance…

Describes a 1995 study of college freshmen at a Scottish university that examined use of computers, knowledge about information technology, and reasons for not studying computing. Gender differences are discussed and results are compared with earlier studies from 1992, 1989, and 1986. (LRW)