Examines the design of three reading software programs to determine their ease of use, format characteristics, and managerial components. Evaluates their text presentation segmentation to determine how closely they conform with current chunking theory in reading. Suggests that teachers directly examine the programs and manuals to determine whether…

To help users develop a long-term strategy for software acquisition, this article outlines two rules: (1) "Know exactly the nature of the problem you want to solve"; and (2) "If you can't try it, don't buy it." Use the sharpest precision software tool you can find to solve your problem and keep a constant look out for something…

Discusses how libraries can gather data on the use of their Web sites. Highlights include Web server log files, including the common log file, referrer log file, and agent log file; log file limitations; privacy concerns; and choosing log analysis software, both free and commercial. (LRW)

This primer on authoring tools for training provides tips on selecting software, questions to assess whether to use it, and a directory of companies selling multimedia authoring products. (SK)

Provides an evaluation template for student activities professionals charged with evaluating competitive event scheduling software. Guides staff in making an informed decision on whether to retain event management technology provided through an existing vendor or choose "best-of-breed" scheduling software. (EV)

Two years after the first low-cost radio-frequency audience response system using clickers was introduced for college classrooms, at least six different systems are on the market. Their features and user-friendliness are evolving rapidly, driven by competition and improving technology. The proliferation of different systems is putting pressure on…

Describes the production of news broadcasts on video by a high school class in Le Center, Minnesota. Topics include software for Apple computers, equipment used, student responsibilities, class curriculum, group work, communication among the production crew, administrative and staff support, and future improvements. (LRW)

Like any infrastructure technology, Virtual World (VW) platforms provide affordances that facilitate some activities and hinder others. Although it is theoretically possible for a VW platform to support all types of activities, designers make choices that lead technologies to be more or less suited for different learning objectives. Virtual World…

Describes a social studies assignment developed for Arizona eighth graders that focuses on Arizona history but also incorporates English, math, and computer programming skills to create a computer program about traveling through the state. Topics discussed include classroom management, computer requirements, community involvement, and interaction…

Offers a checklist to help adult educators make intelligent software selections. Stresses the need to try products before buying them, to have a grace period to test them with students, to look for reviews, and to get a detailed list of hardware requirements. (JOW)

Describes a product called the Event Management System (EMS), a computer software program to manage facility and event scheduling. Provides example of the school district and university uses of EMS. Describes steps in selecting a scheduling-management system. (PKP)

Teachers can produce and direct their own instructional videos using computer-driven multimedia. Outlines the basics in combining audio and video technologies to produce videotapes that mix animated and still graphics, sound, and full-motion video. (MLF)

Discusses the key questions facility managers should ask during the selection process for a facility-maintenance software program. Questions include ease of use, asset modeling capabilities, ease of reconfiguration, and software scaleability. (GR)

Offers advice on the selection of child care administrative software. Directors should consider needs, computer experience, budget, time, and temperament, and should also ask lots of questions and test demo versions. Choices range from custom programs and existing business products to child care administrative software packages. Includes directory…

Examines the practical details of setting up live online reference services in libraries. Topics include choosing software; differences between licensed and hosted applications; models used to implement virtual reference services; how libraries are using these services in day to day operations; and marketing strategies. (Author/LRW)