Discusses major features of microcomputers (word length, memory, size, disk size and capacity, central processing unit speed, peripherals, software) and provides descriptions of 19 models. Comparative analysis on basis of cost, software support, machine capacity, storage capacity, and types of peripherals is presented. A 173-item bibliography is…

Discusses the effects which changes in computer technology are having on the organization, staffing, and budgets at institutions of higher education. Trends in computer hardware, computer software, and in office automation are also discussed. (JN)

The purpose of this paper is to describe some of the current changes in test development that are taking place because of the availability and capabilities of computers, especially microcomputers. Item banking and test assembly are discussed, and a comprehensive testing system is described. (BW)

One of the greatest challenges facing educators is how to reach each student despite varied abilities and learning styles within the classroom. Using multimedia to educate students with disabilities can be key to overcoming this challenge. Multimedia allows teachers to create original and customized projects for students with disabilities, and to…

We expand the theoretical perspective based on the notions of description and conflict, which was previously used to the learning of functions and calculus, to the learning of deductive geometry supported by Dynamic Geometry (DG) environments. Based on prior studies on functions and on the potential role of a DG software, we analyze a case study…

The Teacher Education Department at the University of Indianapolis has completed a two-year pilot program to enable student teachers to digitize their capstone portfolio for the student teaching experience. The Exit from Program Portfolio for Initial Preparation Programs, the third and final benchmark for completion of the licensure program, is…

There are a number of issues to consider in choosing tests, including alignment of tests and standards, the integration of tests with curriculum and instruction, the quality of the tests, and a clear definition of the purpose of the test. To address the various needs reflected by these issues, PLATO Learning, Inc., offers two curriculum-wide…

An evaluation was conducted to determine how the PLATO Pathways program was used in three high schools in Volusia County, Florida: Deland, New Smyrna Beach, and Atlantic. Of the many PLATO sites in Volusia, these three were selected for study because of the representative patterns of low, medium, and high PLATO use. PLATO is a computer learning…

In this paper, the theory of variation in the tradition of phenomenographic research approach is placed in the context of Dynamic Geometry Environment (DGE). Central concepts of discernment, variation, simultaneity and space of learning in the theory of variation are discussed for simple dragging episodes in DGE to illustrate the potential…

This paper describes the development of two new corpus-based Dutch spelling guides using language data gathered by the Institute for Dutch Lexicology, a research institute subsidized by the Dutch and Belgian governments. The guides were produced in 1990 and 1995. The guides are based on two earlier ones, published in 1866 and 1954, but attempt to…

The third session of IT@EDU98 consisted of five papers on educational software and was chaired by Tran Van Hao (University of Education, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam). "Courseware Engineering" (Nguyen Thanh Son, Ngo Ngoc Bao Tran, Quan Thanh Tho, Nguyen Hong Lam) briefly describes the use of courseware. "Machine Discovery Theorems in Geometry: A…

Originally written for adult new readers involved in literacy programs, this book is also helpful to those individuals who want a basic book about computers. It uses the carefully controlled vocabulary with which adult new readers are familiar. Chapter 1 addresses the widespread use of computers. Chapter 2 discusses what a computer is and…

The Secondary Analysis of TIMSS (Third International Mathematics and Science Study) Video Data study used TIMSS Videotape Classroom Study data and vPrism software to achieve methodological and substantive findings on teacher quality, instructional practices, and classroom interactions. It discussed methodological and technical issues arising…

The software "Breakthrough to Literacy" was introduced in kindergarten classrooms in a suburban school district in 1999 and focuses on oral language development. Through observations, the author studied the effects the software had on individual children's oral language and pre-reading readiness skills. Along with reading skill development, oral…

This paper focuses on the experiences and the research of two communication instructors who are currently using Blackboard CourseInfo, an online software program, to enhance learning and communication. The paper states that ,in 1999, Ohio University made Blackboard CourseInfo available to its faculty to enable instructors to have the option of…