Summarizes the animal rights argument that objects to the use or killing of animals for educational purposes. Reviews and evaluates alternative approaches that include the nonanimal options of videotaped experiments, self-experimentation, and computer simulations. (MDH)

Describes an introductory meteorology course for nonacademic high school students. The course is made hands-on by the use of an educational software program offered by Accu-Weather. The program contains a meteorology database and instructional modules. (PR)

Describes how a teacher and a distance-learning consultant collaborate in using the Internet and Computer Supported Intentional Learning Environment (CISILE) to connect multicultural students on the harsh Baffin Island (Canada). Discusses the creation of the class's database and future implications. (AEF)

Presents the results of a study that surveyed 350 Australian secondary teachers concerning their experiences and attitudes about computers. As hypothesized, computer anxieties were inversely related to the quality of prior computer learning experiences. Recommends approaches for the reduction of computer anxiety among teachers. (MJP)

Examines what children learn from using educational technology in an informal, collaborative environment. Explores how mastering educational computer programs can promote problem-solving transfer. Studies at three after-school computer clubs reveal children who use educational software may learn content knowledge about computer literacy,…

Observes that most educators agree that an essential goal of education is the development of students who are effective problem solvers. Describes Problem Based Learning (PBL) environments where students act as professionals and confront problems as they occur. Outlines the stages of PBL and provides a bibliography for further reading. (DSK)

Offers a critical overview of the cultural and educational benefits and dangers of digital media for young people. Argues that public debates on this issue have "veered from utopian hype to moral panic." Provides accounts of previous research on children's engagement with computer games and creative use of multimedia in the home. (CR)

Describes a classroom e-mail project conducted during the 1996-97 school year in a southern suburban school. The project involved three fourth grade teachers and their students, and was developed collaboratively among faculty at a nearby university, the principal, and the fourth grade teachers. Reports on the project's activities, problems…

Computers and other new technologies are changing how school buildings must be designed. Introduces full range of building designs that high-tech learning necessitates. Tables present unit costs for many infrastructural and network electronics components of advanced telecommunication systems now being installed in schools. A hypothetical case…

Provides ideas for using computer technology in language arts classrooms, including learning the mechanics of writing; word choice; rewriting; small group formats; evaluation of writing; group-editing software; e-mail; writing for the Web; and hypertext. (LRW)

A non-science undergraduate course provided an opportunity for constructivist design, (i.e., provide learners with personal control, authentic learning contexts and diverse personal interactions including collaboration) using the World Wide Web, e-mail, and video. Describes the course design, implementation, and evaluation. Concludes authentic…

Guidelines are provided for educators to use in exploring the feasibility of technology-oriented tools in teaching and learning based on social-cultural underpinnings, using activity theory as a framework for analysis. This research and development framework is intended to provide a concrete basis for understanding the impact of technology tools…

A survey of 79 teachers of Alaskan students with deafness found those who use instructional technology tended to be older, hold an advanced degree and secondary education certification, benefit from in-service training onsite, are connected to the Internet, and actively use the technology available at their schools. (Contains references.)…

Evaluated the impact of Smart Talk, a computer-based violence prevention program for adolescents. Control and intervention-group middle-school students completed assessments before and after program implementation. Results indicated that the intervention successfully diminished intervention students' beliefs supporting violence and increased…

In a college accounting course, two faculty members experimented with a new approach to office hours, with all communication between students and teachers other than classroom dialog. Through electronic mail and other methods of data transmission. This included distribution of course syllabus, reading lists, study materials, and exams, and…