This study examined the value added to standard textbook-based instruction of plant biodiversity by the use of the exemplary interactive CD-ROM, "Conserving Earth's Biodiversity." This CD-ROM features renowned conservation figure E.O. Wilson. The setting of the research was an introductory biology course in a rural public community…

The aim of this study is to empirically investigate the relationships between communication styles, social networks, and learning performance in a computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) community. Using social network analysis (SNA) and longitudinal survey data, we analyzed how 31 distributed learners developed collaborative learning…

Interactive whiteboards are desirable peripherals these days. When hooked up to a computer, the whiteboard's screen becomes a "live" computer desktop, which can be tapped to pull down menus, highlight, and move or open files. Users can also circle relevant sections on the projected image, draw geometric figures, and underline. Then they can save…

A microprocessor constitutes the heart and soul of a personal computer. Indeed, the quality of a personal computer is determined largely by the type of microprocessor that is included within its circuitry. Since the microcomputer revolution began in the late 1970s, these special chips have gone through a series of improvements and modifications.…

CD-Rewritable (CD-RW) is the latest advance in compact disc technology, permitting the erasure and reuse of space up to 1,000 times at a slightly higher cost than CD-Recordable (CD-R). This article reviews and rates twelve CD-RW drives and highlights packet-writing software that allows files to be recorded a few at a time by dropping them onto the…

Discusses computer failures or destruction, explores hardware available to help save the intellectual content, and reviews backup strategies. Highlights include floppy disks; Zip drives; CD drives; DVD recorders; additional hard drives; Web storage options; testing backup systems for reliability; and commercial companies that offer restoring…

Describes the use of DIALOGLINK, a searching software for online systems that can be used with microcomputers. Topics discussed include buffer size; multiple copies; screen speedup; print spooler; startup shortcuts; accounting files; type-ahead buffers; and logon macros for use with other online services. (12 references) (LRW)

The author discusses the types of computer hardware and software necessary to set up a desktop publishing system, both for use in educational administration and for instructional purposes. Classroom applications of desktop publishing are presented. The author also provides guidelines for preparing to teach desktop publishing. (CH)

Offers guidelines for schools selecting or upgrading their computers. Highlights include type of user; computer capability; capacity and compatibility; printing; extra features such as zip drives; upgrade capabilities; technical support; and a list of eight vendors with descriptions of the computer hardware they offer for schools. (LRW)

Though technology can enliven and enrich a teacher's work, its glitches can sabotage the most beautifully planned presentation. High school teacher Grinvalds shares six practices that help to deal with the glitches inevitably experienced by those entering the realm of classroom technology: (1) Prepare; (2) Ask for Help; (3) Stick with What You…

Designing high-quality professional development for mathematics educators requires close attention to many facets of teacher learning. "Learning from NAEP" is a valuable manual-plus-CD resource containing activities and workshops that facilitators can use as is or tailor to the unique needs of participants in their school's or district's…

"I saved my presentation in my personal drive on the server last night, but now I can't find it. It just seems to be gone. Can you get it back?" "It looks like the mail server is corrupted. When was the last backup?" These sorts of questions, whether from faculty, students, or IT staff, can be an IT nightmare, or they can set…

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' (NCTM's) Process Standards support teaching that helps students develop independent, effective mathematical thinking. The books in the Heinemann Math Process Standards Series give every middle grades math teacher the opportunity to explore each standard in depth. The series offers friendly,…

Discusses topics related to systems for in-house CD-ROM development: functions, including data capture, data conversion, data editing, indexing, database construction, simulation/testing, and formatting; components, including hardware, the processor, peripherals, and selection considerations; software, including the operating system, system…

Three elementary educators present computer tools to help teachers get the school year off to a good start. They include Quick Study Reference Charts, which are laminated cards that describe useful features of over 100 computer tools; user-friendly software for designing badges on the computer; and an affordable plug-and-play scanner. (SM)