Discussion of research and development (R&D) in education focuses on educational computing R&D, which translates theory and research into practice and the creative design and development of new products. Suggests that as educational technology, accountability, and systemic reform change educational practice, the need for effective R&D will…

Discussion of technological innovation and the process of design focuses on the design of computer software. Offers a framework for understanding the design process by examining two computer programs: FliPS, a multimedia program for learning complex problems in chemistry; and Tiger, a Web-based program for managing and publishing electronic…

Explains the function of formative evaluation and the evaluation techniques that can be used in the various stages of educational computing research and development. Topics include computer software design; selecting evaluation standards; and a framework for formative evaluation, including theoretical models, expert consultation, and field…

Describes an approach to using new technologies in online education that consciously uses the multiplicity of options that these technologies provide. Provides a case study of an online course in a master of education program and examines multiplicity in contexts for learning, instructional media, instructional formats, learning activities, and…

Discusses usability engineering for multimedia learning environments and considers how it can benefit the design and development of educational software. Describes the design and development of interactive multimedia software for second-language learning that included input from users and field testing for usability. (Author/LRW)

Reports several dilemmas that a team of university- and industry-based designers encountered as they collaborated on the design and development of a multimedia software program for teaching academic writing to intermediate English as a second or foreign language learners. Discusses cultural sensitivity and program engagement. (Author/LRW)

Describes the development of Building Family Foundations, 10 competency-based interactive multimedia modules for preparing social workers for child welfare issues they may encounter in professional practice. Discusses results of pre- and post-tests that evaluated the program in terms of students' content knowledge, self-efficacy, and attitudes…

Describes and discusses how simulation activities can be used in teacher education to augment the traditional field-experience approach, focusing on artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and intelligent tutoring systems. Includes an overview of simulation as a teaching and learning strategy and specific examples of high-technology simulations…

Emphasizes the importance of systematic and full-fledged R&D (research and development) in educational computing. Describes high technology R&D frameworks outside of education in business and industry, and discusses increasing the effectiveness and quality of educational computing R&D. (LRW)

Assessed the effectiveness of instruction in promoting sixth-grade students' conceptual understanding of the concept of averages using a leveling model and an open-ended problem-solving approach. Found that students were more capable of using the leveling approach and applying formal averaging algorithm to solve problems than using the open-ended…

Analyzes discussions on curriculum integration in terms of rationales for integration and effects of combining curriculums in middle schools. Finds that curriculum integration describes combining ideas and generating knowledge; considers pro and con opinions. Suggests that discussions represent a struggle for control over what is taught in public…

Examined the value of advisory sessions from the perspective of urban African-American middle school students. Found that students believed that their advisory sessions fail to adequately address sexuality issues and drug and alcohol abuse, and that advisors fail to develop a trusting and caring relationship. Findings also supported a change in…

Four surveys examined middle school students' attitudes toward school. Findings indicated that, regardless of achievement, students in general do not hold positive attitudes toward school. Students classified as high achievers based on achievement data held more positive attitudes toward school than non-high-achieving peers. Findings support…

This note from the new editors of the "Journal of Research on Computing in Education" (JRCE) outlines their plans for JRCE during the next three years. Discussion includes the following: review board and associate editors, book reviews, early review, format templates on the JRCE Web site, and special topics and thematic issues. (AEF)

Examines expectations about a computerized student management-information system (SMIS) and how these perceptions influence effective use. Investigates relationships between design, use and effects in developing a model for understanding strategies for effective implementation and use. Focuses on a public school district in Texas. (AEF)