In designing effective interactive media, cognitive psychology, human factors, psycholinguistics, semiotics, and communication theory should be considered. This article defines interactive media, considers interactive hypermedia design and the cognitive processes of designer and user, and examines the World Wide Web and Netscape Navigator, a…

Discusses the appropriate education for engineers in the global workplace and focuses on the need for bilingual and cross-cultural training. A questionnaire was designed and distributed among engineering professionals in Germany, Spain, France and England in one division of a company which makes fastening components for many of the world's major…

Discusses how simulation technology for the analysis of information systems (IS) supports human decision making. Examines online help and knowledge-based support, graphics, and visual interactive simulation (VIS) and animation. Concludes that there are opportunities to improve the decision support role of simulation technology in IS with enhanced…

Explores how research on how people think, learn, and remember can be used as a guide in redesigning higher education, especially science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Asserts that such research suggests against lectures, "canned" laboratory work, and frequent testing. (EV)

Points out the diminishing demand for mathematics undergraduate programs and the strong trend in engineering education to make greater use of computer coursework such as Mathcad, Matlab, and other software systems for the mathematical and statistical components of engineering programs. Describes the changing role of mathematics learning centers…

Applies principles of constructivism and virtual reality (VR) to computer-aided design (CAD) curriculum, particularly engineering, by integrating network, VR and CAD technologies into a Web-based learning environment that expands traditional two-dimensional computer graphics into a three-dimensional real-time simulation that enhances user…

Discussed is the underrepresentation of minorities and women pursuing graduate and undergraduate degrees in science and engineering. Two intervention programs are described in detail-Minority Access to Research Careers (MARC) and the Minority Engineering Program (MEP). (KR)

This special section includes 15 articles which examine trends in cooperative research, compare Japanese practices to see what the U.S. can learn from economic competition, and review an innovative trans-national continuing education effort in Europe. Several model programs involving companies, universities, and government agencies are discussed.…

The longitudinal study with second-year Chemical Engineering students (N=31) found conventionally taught courses generated study problems in the lecture and student assessment components whereas in resource-based education students confronted problems with the resource laboratory, with reference materials, with tutorials, and with student…

Describes a program in which second-year biology students use plasmid isolation to remove DNA from Escherichia coli bacteria and subsequently ligate and transform it into other E. coli bacteria. Cites ways teachers can get involved in current research that allows student participation. (RT)

Declining birth rates in the 1960s have caused some to forecast shortages of new scientists and engineers by the end of this decade. Students in national longitudinal studies begun in 1972 and 1980 were compared, and it was concluded that a decline in the supply of engineers and scientists is unlikely. (Author/MLW)

A study examined the relationships between components of quality of learning experience and student burnout and the effect of these factors on students' commitment to their college. Results of path analysis are presented. (MSE)

Discusses the driving force behind interdisciplinary research organizations such as intellectual and socioeconomic needs, skepticism of the organizations and questions of research quality. Elements of successful organizations including three approaches on tenure-promotion decisions are described. (YP)

Lists 24 frequently asked questions concerning hydrogen as a fuel with several responses given to each question. Emphasized are hydrogen production, storage, transmission, and application to various energy-consuming sectors. Summarizes current findings and research on hydrogen. An extensive bibliography is included. (ML)

Describes the Eastman Kodak Company's microfilm and optical disk technologies and their applications. Topics discussed include WORM technology; retrieval needs and cost effective archival storage needs; engineering applications; jukeboxes; optical storage options; systems for use with mainframes and microcomputers; and possible future…