The purpose of this paper is threefold: (1) to discuss issues related to the design of interaction on the World Wide Web using models of interaction developed for distance education; (2) to examine several techniques for the analysis of interactions and the quality of the learning experience in a computer-mediated group conference; and (3) to…

This paper summarizes what the author has seen go wrong in six years of participation in online discussions and recommends some remedies. The emphasis is on helping discussion leaders to structure and guide online discussions for maximum effectiveness. The paper has a focus on learning environments, which are central to both formal academic…

This paper presents an integrative model for developing collaborative academic structure between education and science/mathematics content departments. The model was developed through active partnerships with selected professional development schools (PDS PreK-12), College of Science and Mathematics faculty, and teacher educators in a professional…

Influenced by constructivist philosophy and advances in technology, there is increasing interest in authentic activities as a basis for learning in both face-to-face and Web-based courses. Whereas traditionally, activities have primarily served as vehicles for practice of skills or processes, a more radical approach is to build a whole course of…

It is important to build a community of learners so that cooperative learning takes place. This is more difficult to accomplish online, where the lecturer has to overcome the natural reticence of students to post in shared class spaces. This paper suggests contructive methods of ensuring the success of an online course. These include: (1)…

Learning is an active, constructive and collaborative process, where people construct knowledge from their experiences in the world. People construct new knowledge with particular effectiveness when they engage in constructing personally meaningful products, that is meaningful to themselves or to others around them. The construction of knowledge…

This issue of "Tap into Learning" continues an exploration of ways computers can support student learning. As in previous issues, a constructivist learning theory is used as a framework for discussion. This issue examines the notion that social interaction plays an important part in the construction of knowledge. Articles include: "Communication:…

This paper presents a project description of efforts to improve preservice teacher education programs. The project focuses on two aspects. The first aspect probes Auburn Junior High School eighth-grade students and Auburn University preservice teachers, while the second probes Auburn Junior High School faculty and Auburn University faculty. The…

The effective use of technology in the mathematics classroom depends on the interaction between students and their peers, students and teacher, and students and technology. This report describes a study of the introduction of a cognitive teaching model for using graphing calculators in a secondary mathematics classroom in Hong Kong. Episodes of…

This paper examines several perspectives and their implications for school social work services to prevent and deal with school failure and dropping out. It examines the different reform efforts and factors involved with dropping out of school. Much of this discussion is shaped by the personal general school social work experiences and knowledge…

This paper describes a preservice science, mathematics, and technology methods class at The Ohio State University--Columbus that was designed to challenge students' assumptions about teaching, students, and schools while engaging students in study of their own activity and reflective writing. The course experience suggests that teaching about…

The University of Houston-Clear Lake has developed a systematic design process to use in facilitating the development of online distance education courses. The process incorporates three semesters, during which faculty members have the opportunity to consult with a design team that consists of instructional designers, World Wide Web developers,…

This paper explores whether new information technologies are appropriate for use with young children. The paper concentrates on theories related to young children's use of "new media." Sections are: (1) "Defining the New Media by Its Functions"; (2) "Constructivism and Interaction with New Media"; (3) "The…

This study investigated United Arab Emirates (UAE) high school students' views about the epistemology of science. About 1,600 high school science students, from the seven Emirates that constitute the UAE, participated in the study during the 1997-98 school year. Students responded to a questionnaire composed of 15 items selected mainly from the…

Demonstrates how to use the concept of phlogiston to teach oxidation and reduction reactions. Discusses the project as an exemplar for integrating the history, philosophy, and sociology of science to teach basic scientific concepts. Contains 70 references. (DDR)