Describes a project at the University of Salford (United Kingdom) that transferred examination papers between participants (lecturers, administrators and external examiners) using secure electronic mail via a managed public key infrastructure that used encryption methods. Discusses resistance to change and technology problems. (Contains 6…

Discussion of synchronous computer mediated communications over the Internet focuses on the opportunities and pitfalls of using graphical chat programs in education. Topics include two-dimensional and three-dimensional chat programs; distance education; problem solving groups; exploring cultural differences; language skill development;…

This case study explores the popular assertion that success in technology-enriched science classrooms is gender dependent. Describes the TESSI (Technology Enhanced Secondary Science Instruction) project, and discusses findings that indicate that sound pedagogical practices and social organization in the classroom environment can promote gender…

Describes three studies that were performed to investigate the efficacy of digital PowerPoint lecturing in undergraduate classrooms. Results revealed that lecture difficulty, but not the method of lecturing, contributed to grade differences, and suggest that the efficacy of PowerPoint lecturing may be case specific rather than universal.…

Discussion of computer-based learning (CBL) in universities focuses on a study in the United Kingdom that measured the effectiveness of replacing lectures with CBL materials. Describes the results of questionnaires used to assess students' perceptions of the usefulness and effectiveness of the CBL materials compared to lectures. (Author/LRW)

Reviews the historical transitions leading to a fourth generation of distance education, including a paradigm shift with the use of the Internet; presents instructional design models; and develops a hybrid model that integrates constructivist and objectivist approaches and takes into account both learning and design principles. (Author/LRW)

This study of inservice and preservice teachers investigated group interaction processes in networked supported collaborative concept mapping and the influence these group interaction processes had upon group concept mapping performance. Results showed that group concept mapping performance was significantly correlated to the quantity of group…

Describes a study that investigated self-reported computer anxiety scores for five samples of first-year undergraduates between 1992 and 1998. Confirms a reduction in mean levels of computer anxiety and in the proportion of computerphobic students and shows a widening gap between scores of female and male students. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the effectiveness of computer mediated communication (CMC) in higher education. Highlights include a review of pertinent literature; factors associated with successful CMC resources; activity theory; helping users establish a shared purpose; methodological problems; evaluation methods; a conferencing system; and the patterns and content…

Discusses the use of constructivist frameworks to develop effective and successful learning environments, including educational software. Topics include technology supporting reform; virtuality and multimedia; attributes of interactive multimedia and virtual reality; and examples of context and learner active participation. (Contains 35…

Reports on a study that examined undergraduate student pairs carrying out an electronic discussion task in a synchronous computer mediated communication system. Discusses collaborative argumentation; focusing; knowledge construction; learning processes; comparative analyses of dialog between tutor and student; and peer coaching. (Contains 33…

Investigates the nature and value of asynchronous online discussion within small groups of learners. Draws on research into the experiences of adult learners within short courses; and discusses how forums afford communication, including the exchange of personal information and of sustained reflection on course readings and other learners'…

Children usually improve their writing in response to teacher comments. HARRY is a computer tutor, designed to assist children improve their narrative writing, focusing particularly upon grammar and style. Providing assistance involved identifying aspects of grammar and style on which to concentrate, including ways to enable the computer to detect…

Specific combinations of educational and ICT conditions including computer use may optimise learning processes, particularly for learners at risk. This position paper asks which curricular, instructional, and ICT characteristics can be expected to optimise learning processes and outcomes, and how to best achieve this optimization. A theoretical…

Although Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) provides EFL (English as a Foreign Language) students a dynamic environment for English learning, many courses in current markets still emphasize the presentation of domain knowledge but neglect how the students truly interact with the lessons. This article describes the development of…