Teaching with virtual worlds provides new means for collaborative learning but creates challenges for teachers in terms of IT skills. To address these challenges, we developed a teaching model for using virtual worlds in classroom practices and applied it to Minecraft in several rounds of design-based research experiments. Our conceptual framework…

Research and development of Learning Analytics (LA) have created new ways to support students' learning. However, our understanding of teachers' roles when implementing LA in classroom practices remains nascent. This study investigates how teachers can implement LA to support students' agency in directing their own inquiry, when engaging in a…

The use of cooperative learning in a middle school computer laboratory was studied. Cooperative learning helps develop oral and group skills in middle school students as it allows them to socialize in an arena that does not always condone socializing. In this study, 4 heterogeneous groups were formed from 52 students, with male and female partners…

Presents four examples of learning activities that illustrate the possibilities of a multimedia social studies curriculum: (1) a children's exhibit of costumes from different countries; (2) research teams studying the Cherokees; (3) group presentations of the transcontinental railroad; and (4) a study of the effects of wetlands development.…

Discusses the rationale for cooperative learning and examines the teacher's role in creating groups. Provides examples of cooperative learning experiences in an integrated unit and as applied to computer education. Lists the advantages of using cooperative learning, while noting its pitfalls. Cautions that cooperative learning should be used in…

Contends that combining cooperative-learning techniques with computer-assisted instruction is an effective way of integrating special needs students into regular social studies classes. Discusses the type of software and instructional strategies necessary for appropriate implementation of this approach. Includes characteristics of cooperative…

The first part of this document is a report describing "Where in Louisiana," a program model using IBM LinkWay (i.e., a multimedia software package providing tools to merge text and graphics) that was created as a cooperative learning activity to enhance and expand state studies. The introductory report discusses ways the model promotes…

Describes a social studies computer simulation, "SimCity," that was used to teach seventh graders in a middle school their responsibility to be informed citizens, to participate in local decision making, and to learn to work cooperatively in teams. Realism, relevance, student motivation, and future activities are discussed. (LRW)

In June 1990, the research group at George Mason University (Virginia) Center for Interactive Educational Technology began designing a multimedia prototype to foster higher-order thinking skills in social studies. As an initial step, the Civil War Interactive Project using the Ken Burns documentary, "The Civil War," was used in a design…

Current research and evaluation studies describe changing knowledge about the effects and conditions of computer-based tools in learning and teaching in elementary and secondary school classrooms. Current studies of computer-based tool use are characterized by: (1) a focus on many dimensions of learning, learners, and learning environments; (2) an…

Recommends two computer programs for elementary social studies use that help solve the problem of one-computer classrooms: Little Shoppers Kit, a store-in-the-classroom role play; and Choices, Choices, a two-part program concerning ethical questions relevant to students' experiences. Emphasizes cooperative learning, teacher as facilitator, and…

Discusses results of a study of at-risk eighth grade students that investigated whether a constructivist multimedia learning activity after a social studies unit would show greater social studies knowledge and more positive attitudes toward and self-confidence in learning. Describes instruments used to measure student achievement and the…

Presents a collection of 100 creative teaching ideas from educators nationwide. The suggestions cover across-the-curriculum teaching tips for language arts, math, science, and social studies; tips on classroom management, cooperative learning, computers, thinking skills, and self-esteem. A bonus page for students is included. (SM)

This guide, intended for elementary and secondary teacher, explains how to teach with the latest Internet-based technologies. The guide offers variations and tips for adapting assignments to K-12 grade levels, as well as to a variety of disciplines such as English, social studies, math, and science. Organization of the guide is based on…

Summarizes reviews of research reports on classroom practice in the "Handbook of Research on Social Studies Teaching and Learning." Examines textbooks, instructional grouping, teaching methods, and computer-assisted instruction (especially games and simulations), and civic education through student participation in community programs.…