A computer program that simulates the random evolution of a metabolic pathway is given. The program shows that natural selection preserves favorable traits if they occur in a specific sequence. (KR)

Elementary and secondary school teachers explain how they get the most out of their computer labs. Ideas including conferencing with the school's computer teacher, developing a new system for disks, planning a practice project to reinforce basic skills, setting up computer competency training, and supporting the curriculum. (SM)

Describes a method of fostering decision-making skills among students by employing the computer as a way of promoting small group discussion. Provides data from original research designed to measure the effectiveness of the techniques. Finds that adolescents can engage in decision making and discussion that involves higher order thinking. (HB)

Examines the use of databases for social studies. Provides a rationale for database use in light of social studies goals, contending that processing large amounts of information is essential for effective citizenship. Offers suggestions for integrating databases into the social studies classroom, and provides substantial lists of readily…

Demonstrates the advantage of students creating their own Web pages to enhance their awareness of the importance of rhetorical organization. Discusses linking functions, the importance of effective page design, and the kinds of structures and relationships existing within and between information. Compares hypertext writing to regular writing. (CR)

Considers theory, standards, guidelines, and rationale for technology in the preschool environment. Examines practices of 12 diverse preschool sites and derives 4 models that enable early learners to engage and experience technology within a developmentally appropriate learning environment. Focuses on technology-infused preschool models for…

Describes how one fourth-grade teacher developed a Web site to build online research skills. The Day I Was Born helps students find interesting details about what was occurring in the world on their birth day. Suitable for grades 4 and up, it provides links to such sources as the New York Times Learning Network and History Channel On-Line. (SM)

Reviews selected post-1989 research findings on the impact of computer-based technology in science teaching and learning. Provides brief insights into the use of various applications and describes some of the strategies that have been shown to be successful in terms of either promoting conceptual development in science or enhancing higher-order…

Uses of Dynamic Geometry Software (DGS) are often limited purely to a verifying role. Presents a case study that emerged from a project in which DGS formed an integral part of the pedagogical arrangement. The study demonstrates how the contrasting power of DGS might be utilized in a guided discovery setting. (Contains 17 references.) (Author/ASK)

Enumerates the challenges of adopting information technology (IT)-based teaching and learning strategies in higher education. Concerns addressed include whether IT should supplant rather than augment traditional teaching methods, the financing of IT acquisition, change of teaching and learning processes to increase productivity per person, and…

Educational technology should be a tool used for learning but should not become more important than the learning itself. Six criteria for the effective classroom use of technology include determining whether the technology offers an invitation to learn, decentralization of authority, flexibility, access to knowledge, time to explore and use…

Five preschool students with disabilities received direct instruction on matching shapes, colors, and numbers or letters, followed by guided practice using constant time delay under two conditions: computer-assisted instruction (CAI) with interactive software and teacher-assisted instruction (TAI). CAI was either equal or superior to TAI across…

A survey of faculty (n=60) and students (n=1,682) at Northwest Missouri State University concerning student expectations about information technology (IT) use in the classroom found that students expect IT use in all subject areas but desire it for between 40-50 percent of classroom activities. Students reported that PowerPoint and the document…

What uses of computers have effects on student engagement that seem most predicative of important learning? This research provides some evidence about this, examining empirical associations between kinds of software students use, teachers' pedagogical motivations behind their use, and one measure of student engagement: teachers' estimates of the…

Describes how one college of education built its computer infrastructure and technology expertise. Essential in this process were a commitment on the part of the dean, significant funding, technology training sessions, and the expertise of technology specialists. The integration of technology throughout this college has positioned it to become an…