Many preservice teachers report having had little exposure on the use of technology in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Without guidance on the appropriate use of technology, prospective teachers are left to form their own beliefs about what is appropriate technology use. This study assessed preservice teacher beliefs and conceptions of…

Appropriate technologies able to be easily and economically constructed from readily available materials by local craftspeople have a central role in the alleviation of poverty in the developing world. However, research and development of these technologies are generally apportioned relatively modest support by the developed world's institutions,…

This article argues that advances in nanotechnology in general, and lab-on-chip technology in particular, have the potential to benefit the developing world in its quest to control risks to human health and the environment. Based on the "risk society" thesis of Ulrich Beck, it is argued that the developed world must realign its science and…

Outlines the philosophy and general principles of "primitive" indigenous production technologies and natural resource management systems in North and South America. Discusses indigenous practices that promote sustainable production in gathering, hunting and fishing, minerals extraction, and agriculture. (SV)

Examines ethical considerations involved in the transfer of appropriate information technology to less developed countries. Approaches to technology are considered; two philosophical frameworks for studying ethical considerations are discussed, i.e., the Kantian approach and the utilitarian perspective by John Stuart Mill; and integration of the…

Discussion of digitizing an archive's photograph collection focuses on the FEAR method (Funding, Equipment/Expertise, Approach, and Rationale). Topics include whether digitization is an appropriate choice; formulating objectives; file format and compression; storage alternatives, including CD-ROM; and outsourcing. (LRW)

Discussion of developments in satellite communications and educational applications focuses on the possibilities of adapting satellite technology for instruction in developing countries. Topics include satellite use in Australia and the United States; and recommendations for the adoption of satellite technology in Saudi Arabia. (Author/LRW)

Examines technology professional development for preservice and inservice teachers. Reviews the current status of technology in our schools, professional development for teachers and for technology, and research on efforts to increase preservice teacher use of technology in appropriate ways. (Contains 61 references.) (Author/LRW)

Investigates the extent to which electronic learning represents an emergent pedagogy that will be employed not only by corporations, but also by educational institutions, government agencies, and major transportation carriers around the world. Focuses on the relationship of electronic learning to diverse cultures. (Author/LRW)

Presents background information that describes the major components of an embedded performance support system, compares levels of functionality, and discusses some of the required technologies. Highlights include the human-computer interface; online help; advisors; training and tutoring; hypermedia; and artificial intelligence techniques. (LRW)

Considers the goal of creating communities of learners and how to integrate technology with learning. Highlights include cognitive apprenticeships; qualities of meaningful learning, including constructivism and collaboration; assumptions about technology, including knowledge construction; proper roles for technology; and how to support meaningful…

The design and problem-solving process is an ideal methodological framework in which to place the study of technology in less developed countries. It can be used to teach many thinking skills, accommodate individual differences, and encourage a critical approach to product evaluation. (SK)

Sustainable livelihoods and environmentally sound technology should not be developed separately. They require that essential ecological services be protected by restricting use of resources and that those who exploit environmental resources be confronted with the future costs of their actions. (SK)

Examines technological cultures, including the accompanying system of beliefs that may ascribe too much power to technology. Topics discussed include the Luddite movement in opposition to technology; implications for technology in education, including the need to consider what learning is for; and various educational philosophies. (LRW)

The "standard" PC desktop is and always has been a moving target. Although the fear of obsolescence has diminished considerably from the early days of personal computing, it is still true that today's state-of-the-art system will eventually be too slow, too underpowered, and probably too archaic to warrant repair, or even use. To extend the life…