The "Cognitive Tutor[R] Algebra I" curriculum, published by Carnegie Learning, is an approach that combines algebra textbooks with interactive software. The software is developed around an artificial intelligence model that identifies strengths and weaknesses in each individual student's mastery of mathematical concepts. It then…

Enterprise resource planning software does what school leaders have always wanted their computer systems to do: It sees all. By integrating every IT application an organization has--from purchasing and inventory control to payroll--ERPs create a single unified system. Not only does this give IT managers a holistic view to what is happening in the…

Growth curve modeling has become a mainstay in the study of development. In this article we review some of the flexibility provided by this technique for describing and testing hypotheses about: (1) intraindividual change across multiple occasions of measurement, and (2) interindividual differences in intraindividual change. Through empirical…

In this article, the author describes his experiments with Steiner's Porism using the drawing/animation program "Cinderella" and discusses insights into this theorem gleaned from the manipulation of his animation. (Contains 2 notes.)

Mathematical string sculptures constitute an extremely beautiful realm of mathematical crafts. This snapshot begins with a description of a marvelous (and no longer manufactured) toy called Space Spider, which provided a framework with which children could experiment with string sculptures. Using a computer-controlled laser cutter to create frames…

This article discusses different types of literacy software and provides an annotated list of recommended software packages. Guidelines for previewing and selecting software are given, and short reviews of 17 programs are included along with contact information for their publishers, suggested age and ability levels, and details of hardware…

Discusses issues to consider in selecting a CD-ROM network solution, including throughput (speed of data delivery), security, access, servers, key features, training, jukebox support, documentation, and licenses. Reviews software products offered by Novell, Around Technology, Micro Design, Smart Storage, Microtest, Meridian, CD-Connection,…

Addresses questions concerning the selection and use of specialized child care administrative software packages. Examines the timing of the purchase, uniqueness of packages, selection considerations, long-term features, indicators of flexibility, cautions, technological change, and future trends. (SD)

Ideas are presented for identifying, evaluating, and selecting instructional software for children with special needs. The article notes several library research tools as sources of information and lists specific questions to consider when evaluating software. (JDD)

Examines the use of computers, strategies for using packaged software and the use of multimedia in the elementary school classroom. Information on telecommunication software and examples of its use are also provided. The article includes addresses and phone numbers for acquiring product information. (GLR)

Reviews five CD-ROM products: (1) "Our Earth," part of the National Geographic Wonders of Learning series; (2) "New Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia"; (3) "The Lost Tribe," a simulation game where players lead a prehistoric people to a new homeland; (4) "PilgrimQuest," a simulation game recreating the settlement of Massachusetts in the 1620s; and…

Performance is a critical factor hindering the use of object-oriented databases (OODB). This article proposes a new and uniform indexing scheme for enhancing OODBs with advantages for small range, clustered sets queries. Reviews several other indexing schemes; presents the U-index scheme; discusses its performance; and presents experimental…

Suggests that, in reviewing software, educators should apply the following criteria within the context of their objectives and the students' needs: content; instructional presentation; demands placed on the learner; technical features; and documentation and management features. Concludes that integration of computer software with traditional means…

Argues that the development of software documentation should be fully integrated with the overall development of new software products. Suggests that, when technical communicators become full members of the development team, they will not cease to communicate but will be able to add communications value to the product as well as to the…

Discussion of middleware focuses on the Internet 2 Middleware Initiative. Topics include a description of middleware as a layer of software in a distributed system; middleware characteristics, including transparency, portability, reliability, scalability, and interoperability; and the Internet 2 Middleware Initiative which is focused on research…