Reports on the development of a composite learner model for adaptive tutoring systems that combines a model of learner attributes with a simple overlay model of the learner's domain knowledge state. The system is able to select the optimal form of learning material to be presented for the subject. (MJP)

Uses three case studies to examine philosophical and pedagogical issues surrounding the use of laptop computers in outdoor education. Discusses the relationship between nature and technology and the use of computers in education lead to a call for greater recognition of the value of field education, especially in science. Presents criteria for…

Identifies the problems associated with the use of dry laboratories in science education, presents design considerations for the use of such practicals in science education, and presents examples of innovative nontraditional practicals. Contains 23 references. (DDR)

From dynamic spreadsheets through "microworlds" to virtual reality, the convenience and, in many instances, the seemingly intrinsic appeal of simulated environments exist in some tension alongside concerns regarding the relationship of the simulated to the "real" and the possible consequences for human thought, learning, and behavior. A selection…

Discusses how to combat techno-stress, based on experiences of Archbishop Wood High School, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Addresses faculty training; selecting and purchasing technology; students as sources of technology maintenance; and senior citizen volunteers as lab supervisors. (AEF)

Discusses how to use video in classroom projects. Highlights include: mastering simple camera work; using video as a teaching tool for demonstration, modeling, and student feedback; electronic publishing; and steps in pre- and post-production. Sidebars outline six reasons for using multimedia in the classroom, and solutions for dealing with…

Discusses educational strategies for integrating hypermedia materials into traditional geographic instruction. Describes an undergraduate course that placed the instructor's lecture notes in a hypermedia format and included links to relevant Web sites. Students responded that the new formats resulted in clarity of presentation and access to a…

Describes the World Links for Development (WorLD) program, a World Bank effort to bring the Internet to 40 developing countries to connect 1500 secondary schools for collaborative project-based learning. Discusses the World Bank's role in development; program objectives, focus of training, financing, and goals; and lessons learned. (PEN)

Describes issues related to machine compatibility, download time, and storage space to consider when creating a downloadable library. Highlights include file storage on Web servers; compressing PC files; compressing and binhexing Macintosh files; setting up the library; and summer "standards institutes." (AEF)

Investigated the effects of multimedia-based instruction versus lecture-based instruction on teaching cognitive components of manipulative skills to physical education majors. Comparison of control, multimedia, and lecture group students' pretests and posttests indicated that though there were no significant differences in scores between the…

A study investigated the effects of a software-based early reading program on the early reading ability of 55 first-graders with disabilities or who had potential for reading failure. Results showed students showed dramatic improvements following the 16-week program, including the skills of phonemic awareness, spelling, and word identification.…

Draws on experiences from a 7-week exchange between students learning German at an American college and advanced students of English at a German university. Maps out the benefits to using a MOO (multiple user domains object-oriented) for language learning: a student-centered learning environment structured by such objectives as peer teaching,…

Because technology is changing rapidly, teachers must keep up with new developments. This article recommends that teachers be proactive, creating their own staff development options and asking questions in order to get started. Suggestions for resources and options are provided, including attending conferences, using video training, and bringing…

Describes investments made by Garrison Middle School (Walla Walla, WA) in video and computer technology with which the school's sixth graders produced daily video news broadcasts. The "electronic evolution" there has resulted in a schoolwide computer network which aids activities such as writing and library use. Future plans include…

Approaches to college student monitoring have been shaped by changing contexts and evolving technical capabilities, beginning with retention studies and developing into fully relational databases for cohort tracking. Institutional researchers should know this history and be aware of the specific demands for information that future tracking systems…