Reviews a commercial software package that was originally developed for English but can be adapted for use in Japanese. The approach here is the adaptation of a generic program to a specific instructional context, with the attendant benefits and limitations. (Author/JL)

This article on childrens' interactive talking books examines: (1) how pairs of children interact when using the Broderbund multimedia CD-ROM storybook "Living Books"; (2) whether their patterns of interaction reflect the gender composition of the pair; and (3) if different types of pairs interact differently and remember the activity differently.…

Lists best books by the American Library Association for the general reader, best young adult books, notable children's films and videos, best children's books, notable recordings for children, notable children's software and Web sites, quick picks for reluctant young adult readers, bestsellers of 1997, and literary prizes, 1997. (PEN)

Describes the development of a Web-based software tool, the Technology Competencies Database, at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign that will enable faculty to effectively collaborate in providing technology experiences to preservice teacher education students. Discusses the National Council on Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)…

Describes "Glass-box Interpreter" a low-level program visualization tool called Bradman designed to provide a conceptual model of C program execution for novice programmers and makes visible aspects of the programming process normally hidden from the user. Presents an experiment that tests the efficacy of Bradman, and provides…

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…

As classroom technology has developed, so have copyright laws and guidelines. Guidelines are outlined for taping broadcasts, using "home use only" videocasettes, networking and duplicating computer software, incorporating copyrighted material for multimedia productions, creating materials for posting on Internet websites, and…

Examines whether the time has come for electronic books to have a leading role in book publishing. Highlights the trends and issues, including hardware and software appliances, formatting standards, and legal issues and rights. Gives profiles of the major e-publishing companies and products to watch. (AEF)

Focuses on the use of e-mail games for learning. Discusses terminology; reasons for using virtual games; promoting person-to-person interaction online; how to play an e-mail game, including three examples of specific games; player reactions; design components; the functions for facilitating an e-mail game; and the game as an excuse for debriefing.…

Describes an activity in which middle school students use the computer software entitles "Community Construction Kit," a computer program, to design buildings for historical and contemporary communities. Addresses the student benefits of both this activity and the "Community Construction Kit" in general. (CMK)

Describes a computer program called AnoGen that automates the process of generating data sets for ANOVA designs and operates within DOS and Windows compatible computers. Explains that the program runs in both student and teacher modes and is freely available for noncommercial use through the Internet. (CMK)

This article describes how the East Tennessee Technology Access Center is coordinating the use of new computer math programs designed for elementary children with and without disabilities. The use of the computer software to develop math skills, improve literacy, and increase the independence of students with disabilities is discussed. (Contains…

Discusses the benefits of using technology in the music classroom. Provides suggestions and activities for using music technology that are appropriate for students in elementary and middle school focusing on computer software, structure of a music technology class, music technology as an advocacy tool, and building a music technology program. (CMK)

Discusses how software programs can help managers evaluate roofing options, project maintenance, and repair costs. Describes how computerized roof management can aid in budgeting, facilitate the development of a roof-management database, and help in selecting the appropriate roof system. Offers tips on shopping for software. (RJM)

Describes the use of concept mapping as a tool to gather data about student misconceptions. Student concept maps are used to inform the design/development of an innovative, simple-to-use, computer-based learning tool which may be incorporated into online courseware. The interactive grouping tool is designed to allow students to construct their own…