Examines factors that affect the successful implementation of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Empirical studies of ILSs are discussed; implementation models are considered; and factors that facilitate or hinder implementation are described, including student time on the system, teacher involvement, integration with the classroom curriculum,…

Considers issues involved in deciding whether to use a turnkey approach to installing an integrated learning system (ILS). School districts' instructional technology plans are discussed; factors related to the size and complexity of the system are examined; and district-vendor communication is discussed, including writing detailed specifications.…

Discusses features in the physical environment that need to be considered for integrated learning systems (ILSs). Highlights include ergonomics; lighting, including contrast and colors; space, furniture, and equipment, including keyboard, monitor, software, and printer; ambient noise and acoustics; temperature, humidity, and air quality control;…

Outlines five facilities considerations that school principals need to address prior to the installation of an integrated learning system (ILS): (1) placement, i.e., labs or classrooms; (2) wiring; (3) environment, including furniture and noise; (4) security, including fire, theft, vandalism, and misuse; and (5) usability, including afterschool…

Presents views of integrated learning systems (ILSs) from a vendor's perspective, i.e., Jostens Learning Corporation. ILS implementation is discussed; the product development process is explained; ILS strengths and weaknesses are described, including instructional consistency, student monitoring, limited access, and lack of flexibility; and ILSs…

Discussion of integrated learning systems (ILSs) stresses the role of the teacher and the necessity of adequate teacher training for successful implementation. Three implementation patterns are described: (1) using a group computer laboratory; (2) using an independent study laboratory; and (3) a distributed system. Problems with each method are…

Describes the role that school administrators should play when adopting integrated learning systems (ILSs). The school district superintendent's role in the decision-making process is described, including identifying institutional needs, networking configurations, and training and support needs; and the facilitative and supportive role required of…

Discusses the change in teachers' roles with integrated learning systems (ILSs) from the role of deliverer of instruction to manager of instruction. Topics addressed include scheduling; assigning lessons; motivating students; evaluation of task performance; the communication process; time equity; merging the ILS with the classroom curriculum; and…

Discusses whether integrated learning systems (ILSs) provide good education and suggests the need to consider what learning technologies can deliver best and what humans can teach best. Opposition to ILSs is discussed, focusing on negative views of machines; and support for ILSs is reviewed, including individualized instruction and motivation.…

Examines the advisability of public school adoption of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Topics discussed include computer networks; alternatives to ILSs, including stand-alone microcomputers and networks without ILSs; ILSs and theories of learning and teaching; turnkey systems; and ILSs and the profit motive of vendors. (17 references) (LRW)

Discusses possible future developments in integrated learning systems (ILSs). Highlights include greater integration with outside resources; incorporation of other technologies, including CD-ROM, multimedia, and hypermedia; links with databases; network possibilities; artificial intelligence tutoring systems; better courseware; decreasing prices;…

Considers the future of integrated learning systems (ILSs) and examines hypermedia as the most promising new interactive technology for education. Topics discussed include changes in technology; the use of computers in schools; the value of video games; the impact of ILSs on schools; and cognitive science and cognitive psychology. (LRW)

Discusses the role that technology must play in schools to be effective in changing the nature of students' learning. The relationship between schools, society, and technology is examined; the traditional research approach is described as inappropriate; and new design experiments that use successive refinement to improve innovative instructional…

Examines the concept of systemic change in education and reasons why it is needed in education today. Paradigm shifts in society and the relationship between society and education are considered; and features of an information-age educational system based on changes in the workplace and family are presented. (13 references) (MES)

Describes the role of the New American Schools Development Corporation (i.e., a private nonprofit organization established by business leaders to reexamine the nation's schools) in bringing about systemic change in education. A design team competition that involved collaboration among business, education, and community leaders is explained; and…