Discussion of educational systems design describes four systems levels that can be emphasized: learning experience, instructional, administration, and governance levels. Factors to be considered in selecting a focus level and the implications of focusing on the learning experience level are discussed; and a table comparing instructional and…

Describes learning environments, including cognitive flexibility hypertexts, anchored instruction, and computer-supported intentional learning environments. A brief history of educational technology is presented; and problems with open learning environments are discussed, including inappropriate learning theory, deficient metacognitive skills, and…

Examines issues related to the way a teacher acting as instructional designer deals with the content or knowledge base of the instructional materials being developed, including the nature of knowledge, learners' schemata, organization of content, facilitating abstract thinking, and standards of accuracy for knowledge representation. (24…

Describes a study of eighth-grade students that investigated the impact of computer simulations on students' ability to generalize scientific concepts from classroom to naturally occurring problems. A curriculum for teaching thermodynamics that was reformulated to emphasize integration of understanding is described, and student reactions are…

Discusses current trends in the use of electronic mail (e-mail) in education. National and international academic networks are described, including BITNET and NSFNET; uses of electronic mail for faculty, administrators, and students are examined; and guidelines for using e-mail are offered. (seven references) (LRW)

Discusses issues relating to the use of computers in education. Topics discussed include computer laboratories; teacher training; educational software; multimedia learning materials; experimental school projects; integration of computers into secondary schools; the use of computers for school management; future international projects; and student…

Discusses roles that parents and teachers can perform to facilitate children's interactions with computers. Highlights include: (1) designing computer environments, including learner control, learning activities, and relating computer experiences to other learning processes; (2) adult interactions with children; and (3) observation and feedback…

Discusses the value of creating design documentation for computer software so that it may serve as a model for similar design efforts. Components of the software design document are described, including program flowcharts, graphic representation of screen displays, storyboards, and evaluation procedures. An example is given using HyperCard. (three…

A study of eighth grade science students compared the instructional effectiveness and the cost effectiveness of an interactive video system with the use of 16mm films for teaching a science unit. Results indicated that interactive video can be significantly more effective than conventional methods of instruction. (eight references) (LRW)

Discussion of the problem of student procrastination in distance education focuses on interviews with administrators and professors in two distance education programs. Perceived reasons for student attrition and noncompletion are described, and the concept of procrastination as a cause for noncompletion of courses is discussed. (12 references)…

Describes methods for using videodisc technology in training human service professionals for use in college curriculums or for inservice education. Methods explained include videotaping from the learner's point of view, using a Simulation System Trainer, and a programing technique that saves learner responses for later evaluation. (10 references)…

Describes KITES (Kids Interactive Telecommunications Experience by Satellite), a cooperative program that involved an eighth grade class in Massachusetts and a ninth grade class in West Germany; the program focused on environmental science and English language instruction. The computer technology used is described, problems are discussed, and…

Discusses the theories of instructional design methodologies and describes limitations for developing instruction for interactive, technology-based delivery systems. Topics discussed include content analysis; knowledge acquisition; course organization; phases of instructional development; passive versus interactive instruction; productivity and…

Describes a knowledge-based computer system that integrates principles of formative evaluation and remedial teaching. Theoretical foundations of the system are discussed, the principle of multiple facets is explained, steps to construct a facet test are presented, and an example is given describing how to write minor musical scales. (seven…

Discusses the transfer of problem-solving skills from computer programing to other areas of learning. Logo programing is discussed, levels of programing ability are described, attributes of microworlds are presented, and implications of the growing use of computers in the classroom for educational planning are suggested. (15 references) (LRW)