Describes the growth of educational computer networks in three main categories: (1) networks for sharing peripheral equipment; (2) networks for exchanging information; and (3) networks for addressing instructional needs. The use of microcomputers and mainframe computers is examined, networks in public schools and universities are described, and…

Examines the potential use of interactive video (IV) to make primary school student teachers more aware of the process of learning how to teach. Shulman's distinction between subject matter and pedagogical knowledge is discussed, and four IV programs are described that portray typical primary classroom practices. (27 references) (LRW)

Lists supplementary materials cited in the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) database that can help social studies teachers use computers effectively in the classroom. Provides

Discussion of menu design strategies for computer-assisted instruction (CAI) focuses on a study that investigated whether menu design would affect undergraduate learners' usage patterns during a CAI lesson. Sequential versus random selection of options is discussed, and new measures for describing usage patterns in CAI are explained. (eight…

Describes the pharma-CAL-ogy project, funded by Teaching and Learning Technology Programme (TLTP), which has developed various types of software for use in pharmacology courses. Topics include course organization and delivery software, drill and practice software, tutorial-type programs, simulations, and the need to integrate computer-assisted…

Describes design considerations that were made for a software prototype called the Virtual Library that were framed by cognitive research and learning theory. When completed, the software will assist preservice teachers in learning about educational psychology and instructional design. Topics include constructivism, exploratory learning, authentic…

Addresses issues related to implementing a variety of computer-science courses on the World Wide Web and in particular how end-user interaction has been facilitated in the courseware. Topics include media support; examples of Web-based interactive hypermedia in courseware; navigation through the courseware; and automated courseware assessment.…

Discusses Lansing Community College's (Michigan) Virtual College, initiated in 1997 and now offering 47 courses for online delivery. Reviews ColdFusion 3.1, a database-driven Web application server, and describes how the college has successfully used it to support students and faculty. (EMH)

Describes a new scholarly review process for courseware and other interactive learning and information system products. The purpose is to provide a mechanism to support faculty in the creative scholarship of designing and developing interactive products, evaluating their quality, disseminating results, and providing opportunities for the…

Describes the development and use of electronic classrooms at the University of Maryland College Park. Highlights include active individual learning; small group collaborative learning; class collaborative learning; classroom infrastructure; audio-visual support; courseware; empirical assessments; results of faculty surveys; and student feedback.…

Examines three integrated-courseware systems for Web-based online courses and considers the integration of pedagogy in courseware authoring systems. Topics include knowledge; learning; motivation; and pedagogy based on effective use of electronic learning environments for the development of cognitive skills through access to information,…

Discusses the use of constructivist frameworks to develop effective and successful learning environments, including educational software. Topics include technology supporting reform; virtuality and multimedia; attributes of interactive multimedia and virtual reality; and examples of context and learner active participation. (Contains 35…

Discussion of Web-based learning environments and asynchronous learning networks for on-campus and distance education focuses on the role of academic libraries. Topics include library involvement in courseware development decisions, integration with library systems, and librarian attitudes and observations compared to those of faculty. (Contains…

Illustrates how a computer software symbolic-processing program can be easily incorporated into an advanced undergraduate microeconomics course. Symbolic-processing programs are relatively sophisticated software packages that combine numeric, symbolic, and graphic computation in a single unified computing environment. Includes examples of…

Describes efforts to adapt R-WISE (Reading and Writing in a Supportive Environment), a computer program developed for the military, for public education. Field testing at MacArthur High School (Texas) using ninth-grade classes is discussed, including fostering higher-order thinking skills, coping with change, and integrating software into the…