Reviews currently available instructional systems design models and describes a new design model for Web-based knowledge management (KM) systems, based on a living-systems approach, and the mechanisms it contains for accommodating change and growth. Illustrates the application of the phases of the model in the development of a KM system with…

Investigates collaborative knowledge building in a graduate level course designed to incorporate specific constructivist learning principles. Results indicated the instructional strategies promoted collaborative knowledge building and the acquisition of key concepts through self-directed learning strategies. Results also indicated types of…

Reports descriptive analyses of production data gathered from experienced instructional developers who used a commercial authoring package and supplemental coding over a one-year period to produce three separate instructional lessons on thinking skills as part of a larger commercial educational product. (Author/LRW)

Describes the development and validation of the 30-item Computer User Self-Efficacy (CUSE) Scale, a copy of which is appended. Topics include social cognitive theory; experience and computer self-efficacy; gender differences; and the measurement of computer self-efficacy in student computer users and its relevance to learning in higher education.…

Describes a study that examined fifth-grade Finnish pupils' problem-solving processes in a LEGO/Logo technology-based learning environment. Results indicate that learning model and gender account for group differences in problem solving processes, and are interpreted as supporting the validity of discovery learning. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study conducted at a university in Taiwan that explored the effectiveness of electronic mail as a supplementary aid to instruction and as a communication link between students and between students and instructors in fostering interpersonal relationships. Examines student attitudes toward the instructor, group-mates, and other…

Measured the effects of specific white space features on undergraduates' learning from instructional Web materials and investigated learners' beliefs regarding Web-based instruction. Achievement results indicated that if overall content and structure are sound, minor differences regarding table borders and vertical spacing in text do not hinder…

Describes the design and evaluation of a desktop virtual reality program that was developed to teach children about the accessibility and attitudinal barriers encountered by their peers with mobility impairments. Investigated attitudes, grade levels, familiarity with individuals with a disability, and gender. (Author/LRW)

Discusses intelligent learning environments for computer-based learning, such as agent-based learning environments, and their advantages over human-based instruction. Considers the effects of multiple agents; agents and research design; the use of Multiple Intelligent Mentors Instructing Collaboratively (MIMIC) for instructional design for…

This study describes the development of the Children's Attitude toward Technology Scale (CATS) with 574 children in a rural school district. Discuses differences between elementary and middle school students, gender differences, interest and aptitude, and alternative preferences (for videos and books). (Author/LRW)

Defines quality technology support for teachers as consisting of access to one-on-one personal guidance and help; teacher participation in technology-oriented professional support among peers; professional development; and access to resources. Suggests the instructional aspects of technology support are important for successful technology…

Explores secondary school students' ideas and perceptions about learning, including how they learn best and what approaches and teaching strategies they find most conducive to learning. Results of interviews, questionnaires, and focus groups suggest students can engage in metacognitive activity, identify strengths and difficulties in learning, and…

Investigates the related characteristics of asynchronous learning material used for distance education and Web-based instruction and proposes a material characteristics model. Discusses the relationship among the degree of difficulty of the material, student characteristics, and student abilities; social factors; suitability of teaching materials…

Describes a study of graduate distance education students that defined and measured collaboration during asynchronous computer-mediated communication using a threaded Web discussion. Developed a model for evaluating interdependence, synthesis, and independence in collaboration; and discusses the role of collaboration in problem solving, along with…

Discussion of computers as mindtools focuses on semantic networks and expert systems that help learners build a representation of what they know by designing their own knowledge bases. Describes a study of undergraduates that examined the effects of building semantic networks on the construction of expert systems. (Author/LRW)