A study analyzed the functions of 25 publicly accessible college-course Web sites, then surveyed some of the sites' authors. All sites performed course-management functions valued by instructors; a small subset also demonstrated easily implemented, successful, and pedagogically interesting uses of the World Wide Web. Pages conveyed implicit and…

With minimal costs, desktop-presentation programs such as PowerPoint can be a first step in introducing computer technology into the college classroom. They offer visual appeal, capacity for organizing notes, animated graphics, more class time for interactive activities, up-to-date information through links to the World Wide Web, and the ability…

A project created tasks and tools to investigate quality and nature of 11- to 14-year-old pupils' reasoning with quantitative and qualitative computer-based modeling tools. Tasks and tools were used in two innovative modes of learning: expressive, where pupils created their own models, and exploratory, where pupils investigated an expert's model.…

Describes use of the little-known Shuttle Puzzle in computer programming to elucidate the process of analyzing a problem and synthesizing observations into an algorithm that can be used to generate a programming solution. The process used to solve the problem reflects one that an expert uses. The method could be adapted for small-group cooperative…

A study investigated effects of visuals use in interactive multimedia instruction in a college-level unit on listening skills in communication. Subjects (n=140 students) were randomly assigned to two treatment groups (use of visuals/no use of visuals). Results indicate no significant difference between groups on cognitive or listening tests…

Looks at ways in which computer-assisted instruction transforms three traditional aspects of college teaching: lectures are replaced with multimedia presentations; homework becomes electronic, with instant grading and detailed explanations; and traditional office hours are replaced with electronic mail, list-serv, and live screen interaction…

Courseware was developed to facilitate knowledge transfer between lecture and laboratory for general chemistry at the University of Notre Dame (Indiana). One project uses a tutorial strategy. Another uses tool-based courseware for modeling and manipulation of simulated representations of chemical systems; worksheets guide student use of courseware…

Computer-delivered, case-based instruction can provide medical students with valuable clinical diagnostic experiences before encountering real patients. Diagnosis requires physicians to understand and use causal reasoning for prediction. Such reasoning may be scaffolded in the design of computerized learning environments. Scaffolding of causal…

Examines issues in using technology in college instruction, particularly the nature and degree of involvement of technology. Discusses the tension between substance and presentation, and the significant challenges in making technology meet learning needs. Suggests that more research is needed to prove that technology meets these needs and…

A discussion of distance learning (DL) on the Internet outlines four steps in student use of DL on-line (self-education about DL, defining needs, choosing a program, finding and keeping resources and support), describes nine different DL applications on the Internet, and presents a bibliography of useful related books, journals, and software…

The use of computer programs for authoring and presenting case materials in professional instruction in radiology is discussed. A workstation-based multimedia program for presenting and annotating images accompanied by both voice and text is described. Comments are also included on validity results and student response. (MSE)

R-WISE (Reading and Writing in a Supportive Environment), a computerized package for teaching critical literacy, is described, focusing on its use in developing reading comprehension. The program eases demands on short-term memory, highlights strategically important aspects of comprehending text, guides internalization and self-initiation of…

This study compared the effects of five constructed response answer evaluation strategies on both student achievement and instructional time during computer-based learning: (1) computerized evaluation only; (2) student self-evaluation; (3) computerized and self-evaluation; (4) self-evaluation with required elaboration; and (5) computer and…

Describes an interactive, multimedia computer program designed to teach Russian grammar, and accompany a commercial textbook. Each of the 35 lessons integrates graphics, sound, and animation. A dictionary and extensive vocabulary exercises are also included. Tutorials provide simple but concise grammar explanations that the teacher can edit or…

The evolution and design of a videodisk recording for classroom use in teaching aesthetics at the college level are described. The program presents an internationally notorious case study in art forgery. It facilitates three crucial tasks in visual art study: access to art and related information; detail; and analysis. (MSE)