Provides a step-by-step approach to test the Y2K readiness of computers. Gives advice on what actions to take if an organization's computer systems fail the test. (GR)

Describes seven design principles found in computer games that contribute to the creation of more usable applications. Provides examples from several games to illustrate these principles ("attract mode," clearly stated goals, brief instructions, transparency, performance coaching, "training wheels," and consistent feedback). Argues that games set…

Discussion of the use of computer supported teamwork (CSTW) in team-based organizations focuses on problems that visually impaired people have reading graphical user interface software via screen reader software. Describes a project that successfully used email for CSTW, and suggests issues needing further research. (LRW)

Describes customer call centers that provide customer service and support in business and considers how their routines could be adapted to library operations. Topics include centralized staff; interactive voice response; automated call distribution; question analysis; sophisticated software; training and monitoring; telephone reference; and…

Describes a program for computing different person-fit measures under different parametric item response models for binary items. The indexes can be computed for the Rasch model and the two- and three-parameter logistic models. The program can plot person response curves to allow the researchers to investigate the nonfitting response behavior of…

Describes the process of setting up on-line support groups using The Palace, an Internet software that establishes a graphical room for the group. Describes the process of installing the software and illustrates operating it during the group. Discusses considerations for group planning including selection of leader, selection and orientation of…

Provides reviews of four distance learning software products: (1) LearningSpace, (2) LearnLinc I-Net, (3) LOIS (Learning Organization Information System), and (4) Symposium. Includes a comparison of the features of each of them. (JOW)

This study developed a testing approach to increase sample size to approximately 450 scorable items, previously determined as necessary to optimize the reliability of a speech recognition test. The approach involves an interactive computer program which presents words in 50 three-word groups. The approach was evaluated with 100 persons with normal…

Describes a business data generator to assist instructors in generating realistic business data in great volume for teaching and learning activities. Illustrates how the software application allows instructors to manipulate parameters to customize the data to reflect problem situation. (Contains 40 references.) (JOW)

Examines the concept of the efficiency with which text is entered into a word processor--from the perspective of effective use of keyboard shortcuts. Illustrates how the possibility for productiveness offered by shortcuts, available through the use of features such as Autotext, are often under-utilized by many word processor users, academics being…

Discusses knowledge engineering, computer software, and possible applications in the field of education. Highlights include the distinctions between data, information, and knowledge; knowledge engineering as a subfield of artificial intelligence; knowledge acquisition; data mining; ontology development for subject terms; cognitive apprentices; and…

Expectations for reporting factor analysis results as part of construct validation are explored in the context of emerging views of measurement validity. Desired practices are discussed for both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. A short computer program for conducting parallel analysis is included. (Author/SLD)

Discusses the advantages and uses of multimedia courseware and describes the step-by-step process for developing it. Includes tips for technology teachers who are new to this instructional method. (JOW)

Reports data pertaining to the fundamental question about popular speech recognition software for English as a Second language: To what extent can the software recognize learner language? Based on findings that the software fails to recognize nonnative language at an acceptable level even under ideal conditions, recommends careful examination of…

In 2000, any automated system that processes dates may stop working completely or produce unexpected or unwanted results. School administrators should obtain a complete listing of all currently used systems, prioritize them, contact hardware and software providers to verify Y2K compliance, develop resolution plans with vendors, develop assessment…