This column describes British technological aids that can support children with communication and writing difficulties, including (1) writing aids such as predictive typing, abbreviation expansion systems, and alternative keyboards; and (2) socially interactive communication aids such as synthetic speech using portable computers. (JDD)

Describes a study that was conducted to determine whether paired/cooperative computer-assisted instruction (CAI) was as effective as individual instruction. Treatment of experimental and control groups is explained, and the effects of pairings based on cognitive style--i.e., field dependence and field independence--on achievement and student…

Evaluations of IBM's Writing to Read program for kindergartners and first graders are reviewed. The 21 kindergarten studies evidenced a median effect size of 0.23; however, in many cases this effect may be a result of comparisons with nonacademic programs. Across 13 first grade studies, the median effect size was 0.00. (TJH)

Studies suggest that computer work stations may induce high levels of physical and psychological stress. Advises school districts to take a proactive stance on ergonomics. Cites laws and pending litigation regulating computer use in the workspace and offers guidelines for computer users. (MLF)

This research study provides evidence indicating that students who receive appropriately chosen computer software tutorials as homework assignments attain higher achievement results than do those students who receive the traditional paper-and-pencil exercises as homework assignments. (JJK)

Discusses reasons for staff resistance to library CD-ROM services based on responses on electronic bulletin boards from primarily academic libraries in North America and the United Kingdom. Highlights include psychological reasons; problems of multiple interfaces; increased teaching load; increased costs; increased stress; maintenance time; and…

Describes a study of undergraduates at West Virginia University that was conducted to investigate the effects of computer-based instruction on writing performance and writing apprehension. Computer anxiety is measured, appropriate software is discussed, and the quality of pretreatment and posttreatment essays are compared with essays written…

Interpreting teaching in gender and labor process terms, an ethnographic study of the use of a computer-literacy curriculum assessed the effects of these tendencies on teachers' daily lives. Teachers often used a prepackaged curriculum that deskilled them and left them bored and reliant on outside experts and purchased material. (TJH)

Based on a presentation at the Coalition for Networked Information (CNI), this article discusses a university-based computer network that would support electronic publishing. Highlights include the influence on libraries and librarians; technical and operational standards; economic factors; and institutional planning. Six sidebars address other…

Reviewed are six computer software packages including "Invisible Bugs,""Chaos Plus...,""The Botanist's Apprentice,""A Baby is Born," Storyboard Plus-Version 2.0," and "Weather." Hardware requirements, functions, performance, and use in the classroom are discussed. (CW)

Describes results of a meta-analysis that was performed to synthesize existing research on the effects of computer programing on cognitive outcomes. Effect size is used to evaluate studies that used experimental and control groups to assess the relationship between computer programing and cognitive skills, and outcome measures are discussed. (79…

Suggests ways that the school library media specialist can help students become more successful as users of online information. Four types of barriers to becoming informed are described: (1) indicative access barriers (indexing systems and relevance); (2) physical access to documents identified in a search; (3) linguistic barriers; and (4)…

The experience of Dartmouth College (New Hampshire) in developing a campuswide information system to enhance the computing culture is discussed, focusing on four elements: the philosophy of computing as a public utility; investment in physical network infrastructure; standardization of workstations; and development of content-neutral network…

Examines plans for the cooperative extension service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and includes background on the director for communication, information, and technology, Janet Poley. Highlights include the use of new technology and major trends shaping future plans, including networking, globalization, organizational restructuring,…

Describes the strategic plan developed for reference services offered by OCLC Online Computer Library Center to provide easier access to, and use of, information and knowledge. Topics addressed include the environment of libraries and publishers, including budgets, networks, and pricing, and future plans, including an emphasis on online products.…