Describes a study that investigated whether an advance organizer could facilitate learning in a computer simulation environment using HyperCard. It examined the differential effectiveness of an advance organizer across three different grade levels--fifth, sixth, and seventh. Analyses of data showed significant differences between the organizer and…

This study examined whether sixth- and eighth-grade students' motivation, anxiety, and classroom learning environment in mathematics differed significantly according to the degree of implementation of technology in the mathematics classroom. Self-concept, involvement, affiliation, satisfaction, and parent participation are discussed in relation to…

Reviews the history of instructional technology. Describes how computers and related technologies can be viewed through four conflicting perspectives on curriculum: (1) academic rationalism; (2) self-actualization; (3) social relevance; and (4) development of cognitive processes. Identifies concerns each conception has about certain uses of…

Examines the benefits of the Internet in education. Identifies the differences between telematics in education and network-based education. Discusses the value of computer networks in three teaching contexts: (1) for communication and navigation through distributed information; (2) in support of educational activities that can be conducted with or…

Describes the nature of electronic books that are published primarily on CD-ROM. Discusses common delivery platforms; human-computer interface issues; and authoring. Outlines pedagogical benefits and potential, including their interactivity, portability, connectivity, and dynamic behavior that make them beneficial for both individual and…

From an economic and technologic perspective, self-publishing through electronic media is now a viable and attractive alternative to traditional publisher-mediated channels. For academicians developing a multi-authored hypermedia publication, a common vision must be created by defining pedagogical objectives; roles of all involved; authoring…

Ten faculty from different disciplines at George Washington University (D.C.) documented their teaching behaviors and ideas in an interactive multimedia format that focused on general philosophy/vision of teaching; characteristics of excellent teachers; teaching strategies/techniques employed; motivating students; assessing teaching effectiveness;…

Assesses the status of instructional technology in the United States and projects trends that appear to be taking shape. Highlights include corporate training and development, including the use of technology-based media; higher education, including changes in faculty roles; and elementary and secondary education, including distance education and…

Presents results of a content analysis of doctoral dissertations done in the field of educational technology from 1977 through 1998 that was conducted to determine the major themes of dissertations, how the themes have changed, how research methodologies have changed, what trends are evident, and what the emerging trends are. (LRW)

Addresses the effects and benefits of faculty development activities. Summarizes research in the area, identifies emerging trends, and points to directions that future programs should take. Highlights research about the effect of programs on instructional improvement and acknowledges the role that technology will play in the development needs of…

Describes the GEM (Gateway to Educational Materials) project that was developed to provide retrieval of lesson plans and teacher guides on the Internet . Discusses the development of a metadata set for controlled description based on the Dublin Core, distributing GEM metadata on the World Wide Web, and future…

Discusses and describes automated instructional design (AID) tools that assist instructional designers and others in creating instructional products to improve learning. Highlights include expert systems; advisory systems; information management systems; electronic performance support systems; and authoring tools for computer-based instruction.…

Summarizes the observed benefits of educational technology implementation. Topics include applications of technology for drill and practice of basic skills; applications to advanced skills; effects of technology on student attitudes; online technologies; use of technology by teachers and administrators; factors that help technology succeed; and…

Explains the E-rate as discounts provided by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that are available to schools, libraries, and rural health care providers on telecommunications services. Lists E-rate resources including Web sites, FCC and Department of Education sites, and Listserv discussion groups. (LRW)

Describes Internet Relay Chats (IRCs), electronic conversations over the Internet that allow multiple users to write messages, and their applications to educational settings such as teacher collaboration and conversations between classes. Explains hardware and software requirements, IRC organization into nets and channels, and benefits and…