Presents multimedia tools to enhance language arts and social studies lessons. These include stories on video; a computer program for increasing reading speed; and Educast, a free online service that gives teachers access to up-to-the-minute news along with extension activities and Internet-based, cross-curricular lesson plans. (SM)

Whether or not colleges should require students to have a computer as a condition for admission is discussed. In determining policy on this issue, governing boards are urged to consider the rationale for such a requirement and whether or not the campus culture and infrastructure are appropriate for the change. (MSE)

The GenTechnique project at Washington State University uses a networked learning environment for molecular genetics learning. The project is developing courseware featuring animation, hyper-link controls, and interactive self-assessment exercises focusing on fundamental concepts. The first pilot course featured a Web-based module on DNA…

Examines the extent and characteristics of Internet use among junior- and senior high school students in Israel. Discusses the link between Internet use and school activities, age and sex differences, and findings that indicate primary use is for communication with search for information as a secondary reason for Internet use. (Contains 16…

A random survey (with 25 followup interviews) asked 150 California high-school teachers to describe differences in their classrooms since students began using the Internet. Students are excited about using computers and actively engaged in finding and discussing information and writing reports. Teachers serve as motivators and learning guides.…

Examines the database for the National Educational Longitudinal Study (NELS:88) for connections between student use of computers in math and science classes and their academic success. Finds that computer use was significantly correlated with gender, socioeconomic status, parent's level of education, and Item Response Theory (IRT) scores.…

Describes an investigation into the social dynamics of a technology-mediated preservice teacher environment (an Internet discussion group) and the extent to which community-building occurred. Discourse analysis examined how the technology-mediated discourse community reflected five main categories characterizing the ethos of classroom communities.…

Describes a technique for using e-mail and the World Wide Web to teach an introductory media writing course online. Surveys students' attitudes toward the technique and evaluates the technique's effectiveness in helping students learn. Finds that participating students rated the course highly enjoyable and convenient, and substantial majorities…

This article shows how even preschool children with significant physical disabilities can use the computer independently to learn social skills if given the correct positioning, appropriate computer peripherals and software, grouping, and instructional strategies. A continuum of computer peripheral adaptation is provided, along with a list of…

This article describes Technology Option for At-Risk Readers (TOARR), a program that uses technology to help students with reading difficulties. The program uses specialized reading software plus a host of motivating reading activities to encourage reading. Steps in developing the TOARR needs assessment and implementing the program are discussed.…

Describes an experience using a computer simulation on air resistance. There appeared to be differences in how students approach learning in interactive physics learning environments with and without the simulation. (Contains over 20 references.) (Author/WRM)

The staff of teacher education institutions in Scotland are under increasing pressure to ensure that teachers in training acquire a range of information and communications technology skills. This paper reports a study of current skills and attitudes of some Scottish training institutions and students' related experiences. Ways of ensuring…

Describes the effectiveness of censoring software, the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) program, virtual book reports, technology uses in language-arts instruction, the latest school-technology information, and strategies for dealing with kids who send threats on the Internet. (LMI)

Argues that the reason computers have failed to become central to education is that they offer no added value to the traditional "factory-model" school of today. Outlines changes that must be made in goals of schooling, standards, accountability, intellectual diversity, and new structures. Discusses shift of values from standardization to…

Describes the workings of computerized adaptive testing (CAT). Focuses on the key concept of information and then discusses two important components of a CAT system: the calibrated item bank and the testing algorithm. Describes a CAT that was designed for making placement decisions on the basis of two typical test administrations and notes the…