Discusses the need for increased emphasis on client relations in instructional technology programs of study and describes a graduate course that was developed to meet that need for experiential learning and practice. Explains the model of cognitive apprenticeship learning environments used which includes the sociology, methods, content, and…

Discussion of the current change process in universities focuses on a study at the University of Twente (Netherlands) that identified scenarios regarding organizational practice to guide decision-making for the future. Considers educational trends, including changes in social context, flexibility, commercialization, and technology; and scenarios…

Considers benefits of distance learning for various organizations including educational institutions, corporations, and government agencies. Topics include usefulness; measurable value added; the organizational elements model (OEM); an evaluation of distance education, from conventional instruction to future possibilities; and guidelines for…

Explains haptic computer interfaces for Web sites that relay touch-sensory feedback to the user. Discusses the importance of touch to cognition and learning; whether haptics can improve performance and learning; haptic interfaces for accessibility for blind and physically impaired users; comparisons of haptic devices; barriers to implementation;…

Discusses community of practice, situated cognition, learning as demand driven, learning as a social act, and learning via ways of seeing. Expands these ideas through Vygotsky's writings, including zone of proximal development and the general genetic law of cultural development; and considers implications for the design of Web-based learning…

Reviews "The Silk Code" (novel by Paul Levinson, Professor of Communications, New York University) that encourages questions about how to choose and use the full range of technology; and compares and applies its ideas to current practices in educational technology. Topics include divergent views in educational theory; and examples of the use of…

Considers how organizations can identify the knowledge that individuals possess and make that knowledge available to other employees. Discusses knowledge management projects in businesses and government agencies; knowledge management software; and knowledge management needs and programs in education that would help teachers share expertise. (LRW)

Discusses the use of museum collections for scientific inquiry and describes a project that investigated ways in which museum Web sites can be expanded to support learning through scientific inquiry. Describes a content analysis of museum Web sites and the development of a Web site to provide access to museum collection items. (LRW)

Describes the International Communication and Negotiation Simulations (ICONS) Project that teachers college students about cross-cultural communication, including the role of foreign language in diplomacy and the complexities of the international system. Discusses the role playing element, Web-based communication between teams, active student…

Considers the possibility of establishing undergraduate degree programs in instructional design and technology. Topics include undergraduate programs in other countries; and how faculty feel about creating undergraduate programs, including lack of resources, perceived extra work involved, lack of jobs for graduates, and fear of failure. (LRW)

Considers technologies needed for higher education institutions who are offering program-based or knowledge unit-based approaches to meet learners' needs. Highlights include integrated information systems; technology requirements and architectures; user tools and functionalities, including Web-based course management systems and knowledge…

Explains how to design, implement, and evaluate self-contained Web-based learning modules for university students. Discusses remote access for distance education; interactivity; multimedia; student control of learning; content; intended audience; scaffolding; individualized feedback via online assessment; navigation; collaboration and expertise;…

This study used surveys, observations, and interviews to document the experiences of 10 public school teachers whose classes spent two months in a high tech facility made available at a local university. Topics include technological literacy; the need for technical support; changes in class dynamics; cooperative learning; instructional…

Reviews the use of media comparison studies in the field of educational technology, argues that they are weak and inappropriate, and recommends a new focus on the issues of instructional methods and learner characteristics. Discusses intra-medium studies and aptitude treatment interaction studies as better alternatives. (LRW)

Describes the differences between traditional computer-based training (CBT) and electronic learning environments using the principles of activity theory. Concludes that an e-learning environment developed on the principles of activity theory characterizes the workplace because it provides a contextual-community perspective that is lacking in…