Explores the use of Information Technology in preschool education as a tool for the understanding of ideas which are familiar to children in a naive way. Suggests that computer programs can provide a safe environment for children to experiment and play with processes and ideas and for teachers to banish their preconceived notions about what…

Reviews four CD-ROM titles: (1) "The Way Things Work" provides explanations of machines and scientific principles that make them work; (2) "Stowaway" teaches about intricacies of an 18th-century warship; (3) "Explorapaedia: The World of Nature" teaches about plants, animals, ecosystems, and universe; and (4) "My…

Two examples of the interaction between computer technology and assessment are described: a tool-based knowledge representation approach to assess content understanding and a team problem-solving task involving negotiation. The examples serve as the context for the exploration of validity, equity, and utility. (LZ)

Focuses on the development of informed teacher advocacy for new advancements in technology-based assessment. Suggests key evaluative questions for teachers to ask about any forms of science assessment that would amplify the potential value of new technology-based forms of classroom science assessment applications. (LZ)

Local area networks are in 50%, soon to be 100%, of New Brunswick schools. Currently, the province is connecting the local networks to a regional area network that will link all the schools and the school district offices. All students and teachers will have Internet access. (MLF)

Describes the use of an exploratory computerized approach to introduce first-year physics students to the ramifications of Newton's third law of motion. (JRH)

Discusses developments in computer applications in guidance and counseling, specifically the information systems and career planning emphasis systems available to counselors and their use with clients in individual or group career counseling and education. (LKS)

Examines the use of compact disc (CD)-based software with young children. Discusses the general benefits of CD technology and the challenge of deciding when to purchase a new product. Describes what to look for in CD technology for young children, such as electronic books, interactive electronic books, and older software now available in CD…

Discusses the use of state-of-the-art software tools in teaching a graduate, advanced, relational database design course. Results indicated a positive student response to the prototype of expert systems software and a willingness to utilize this new technology both in their studies and in future work applications. (JKP)

A decision support system integrates individuals' intellectual resources with computer capabilities to improve decision-making quality. This paper presents the theoretical aspects of decision making and decision support and shows how the theories can be applied in developing an operational management decision-making support system for room booking…

This article describes a computer-based system, the "Direct Observation Data System" (DODS), which allows for unobtrusive collection of direct observational data in the classroom and natural settings. At present, DODS consists of event-recording and duration-recording programs which can be remotely accessed. The device has implications for…

An overview is provided of current trends in virtual reality research and development, including discussion of hardware, types of virtual reality, and potential problems with virtual reality. Implications for education and training are explored. (Author/JKP)

Describes a research program in which high school students act as individual investigators on scientific projects. Probes how to better introduce current scientific research topics and methodologies into the classroom. Provides an example using fractals. (MVL)

People will learn better if they like what they are learning. Computers offer an extensive library of cases, examples, and stories that are easy to access, fun to work through, and tell students what they want to know. One example is the ASK system, a 15-module, self-study, multimedia program that is fun for trainees to use, which should enhance…