Defines and discusses the concept of small languages. Topics addressed include political status; official status (e.g., as a national language); distinctiveness; robustness or the degree of feasibility; social function; education to support the language; functions of literacy; and appropriate technology for use with particular languages. (12…

Describes the IT Observatory, a service of the Macau Productivity and Technology center (CPTTM) that provides information on demand using information technology. The CPTTM is a nonprofit organization funded by the Macau government and private businesses to enhance the productivity of Macau businesses by introducing new technologies and new…

Examines decision-making aspects of the introduction of distance learning into university instruction and learning based on experiences in Israel. Discusses the introduction of information technology into the classroom; examines teacher/student interactions; and suggests a model for introducing distance learning that focuses on the role of the…

Baroma (Balance of Rotating Machinery), the Web-based educational engineering interactive software for teaching/learning combines didactical and software ergonomical approaches. The software in tutorial form simulates a problem using Visual Interactive Simulation in graphic display, and animation is brought about through graphical user interface…

Estonia has not participated in international studies of ICT in education, nor have there been any similar studies at the national level up until the year 2000. The first survey of ICT in Estonian schools was conducted after completion of the national school computerization programme called Tiger Leap. This paper focuses on the targeted responses…

The introduction of information and communication technology (ICT) to the educational system of Latvia has implemented infrastructural planning since 1985 (Grinfelds, 1996). The initial plan envisaged equipping schools (mainly secondary schools) and institutions of higher education with computer sets, and training teachers and university faculty.…

The presence of a virtual learning environment (VLE) in an on-campus setting can alter the dimensions of existing learning and teaching relationships. Research literature indicates that increased engagement with educational technology can have the effect of drawing staff and students closer together (both physically and virtually) rather than…

This paper argues that the key to enhancing professional excellence in psychology education lies with ensuring strong alignments between curricular, pedagogical and media/technology mix concerns, delivered within an inter-linked suite of distributed learning environments designed for the professional preparation of students. An overarching design…

An analysis of the role of educational technology in the teaching/learning process and the potential for its future utilization. (HB)

Presents two parallel initiatives contributing to an open and distance learning (ODL) deployment, comparing them using the LabSET Keys to implement a Training Embedded Coached Course Construction (TECCC) approach. The article examines some of the challenges faced by the support to trainers using the Web as an instructional tool to facilitate…

Curriculum needs can be identified and curriculum developed using the instructional design process. A fictional scenario and instructional design components are provided for those educators interested in incorporating virtual reality into the curriculum. Sample items of questionnaires are appended. (AEF)

Discusses technology-related issues that face distance teaching institutions in developing countries. The lack of technology available in developing countries is considered; future possibilities with CD-ROM are described; and implications of political changes and new technological developments are suggested for both developed and developing…

Considers whether there are "good" or "bad" media, and the ability of teaching aids, by themselves, to solve educational problems. Questions central to the effective use of media are raised in the following areas: relationship between media and egalitarian education, creativity and motivation; relevance and quality; and role in…

Examines aspects of media education in Finland: media integration into the curriculum; how teachers and students can master it; and the production of new media and multimedia, focusing on needs, restrictions, interactivity, and costs. Suggests international co-production to share the cost of developing educational multimedia. (PEN)

Describes a training system designed and developed by the Portuguese Welding and Quality Institute of Macau for all aspects of open learning. Highlights include the technical training of teachers, using the Internet; the Asian version; and new challenges resulting from new training technologies such as shared multimedia networks. (Author/LRW)