The impacts of computers on writing have been widely studied for three decades. Even basic computers functions, i.e. word processing, have been of great assistance to writers in modifying their essays. The research on Automated Essay Scoring (AES) has revealed that computers have the capacity to function as a more effective cognitive tool (Attali,…

Evaluates and provides technical information concerning The Smart System, version 3.0, by Innovative Software. (DMM)

Describes new features, system specifications, upgrading procedures, and package options (including costs) for Office XP. (PKP)

In this article, the authors explore the origins of computer-based instruction (CBI) and its influences on the Instructional Design and Technology profession. Specifically, the authors first identify four particularly popular CBI methodologies: (1) tutorials; (2) simulations; (3) games; and (4) hypermedia/web-based applications. Then, they examine…

In light of the increasingly blurred line between mediated and nonmediated contexts for social, professional, and educational purposes, attention to the presence and use of innovative digital media is critical to the consideration of the future of computer-assisted language learning (CALL). This article reviews current trends in the use of…

The Meta-Analysis Effect Size Calculator provides the user with many different ways to calculate an effect size depending on the information available in the original research report. In addition, the program computes an unbiased estimate of effect size. (Author)

Evaluates WordCruncher, a "text indexing and retrieval" system aimed at manipulating large bodies of text. States that it offers an intriguing method of organizing and analyzing text on a large scale. Concludes that this IBM PC/AT compatible product is, with minor exceptions, well designed. (GEA)

Reviews Pro-Cite, a software package which formats bibliographic records into different styles, allows revisions, and sorts and prints the final bibliography. Although the program is recommended, its complexity and limitations are pointed out and problems are noted for designing a workform and style sheet, revising, sorting, and word processing.…

Factors to consider when selecting software include (1) current use in business, (2) curriculum needs, (3) availability, and (4) cost. Evaluation criteria include (1) copyright, (2) documentation, (3) compatibility, (4) vendor support, and (5) ease of use. (JOW)

Reviews two software programs: (1) "My Mediatext Workshop," an integrated media program based on a simple word processing program that joins sounds and graphics through media links; and (2) "Aesopolis," a CD-ROM product that displays classic paintings of scenes from Aesop's fables and enables students to read and hear the…

Reviews and evaluates Pro Tools 4.1, a multitrack digital audio workstation (DAWs) that imports and synchronizes to QuickTime or AVI digital movies. Audio-for-picture editors lock their digital audio workstations to linear videotape recorders, using complex, expensive time code synchronizers. Highlights Macintosh and Windows based alternatives.…

"Computer Simulations of Salt Solubility" by Victor M. S. Gil provides an animated, visual interpretation of the different solubilities of related salts based on simple entropy changes associated with dissolution such as configurational disorder and thermal disorder. This animation can help improve students' conceptual understanding of…

In 2001, Indiana officials at the Department of Education were taking stock. The schools had an excellent network infrastructure and had installed significant numbers of computers for 1 million public school enrollees. Yet students were spending less than an hour a week on the computer. It was then that state officials knew each student needed a…

Writing researchers have developed various methods for investigating the writing process since the 1970s. The early 1980s saw the occurrence of the real-time computer-aided study of the writing process that relies on the protocols generated by recording the computer screen activities as writers compose using the word processor. This article…

Many types of technology support caregiving: (1) Assistive devices include medicine dispensers, feeding and bathing machines, clothing with polypropylene fibers that stimulate muscles, intelligent ambulatory walkers for those with both vision and mobility impairment, medication reminders, and safety alarms; (2) Telecare devices ranging from…