Design prescriptions to create web-based courses and sites that are dynamic, easy-to-use, interactive and data-driven, emerge from a "how to do it" approach. Unfortunately, the theory behind these methods, prescriptions, procedures or tools, is rarely provided and the important terms, such as "easy-to-use", to which these…

This study explored online instructors' perceptions of their implementation of Chickering and Gamson's Seven Principles and the factors that influenced instructors' implementations. Results reveal that endorsement of the seven principles by online instructors varied significantly from one principle to another. The least-endorsed of the principles…

In this paper, ULearn (University of Surrey learning on-line) and e-learning techniques are used to enhance the students' understanding and participation in Dynamics modules for an undergraduate programme in the School of Engineering, University of Surrey. The Dynamics modules are taught at Levels 2 and 3 and contain several mechanisms and…

Reports on a study that contrasted learning outcomes of students in a class that incorporated computer assisted instruction (CAI) exercises with those of a lecture-only class. Students in the lecture-plus CAI class scored higher than those in the lecture-only class, specifically regarding material covered in the class. (MJP)

The following activities of the Institute of Didactic Technology at the College of Education in Nitra (Slovakia) are discussed: undergraduate and postgraduate courses of didactic technology, fields of research work, organization of conferences and exhibitions, and activities focused on the introduction of the newest teaching aids and didactic…

Describes a pilot project with 11 undergraduate preservice teachers who taught technology-based lessons in elementary school classrooms. Participants indicated that teaching technology was a good way to learn how theory is applied in practice, and field experience enhanced their knowledge. (AEF)

Online education, supported by online resources such as e-mail, chat rooms, and Web-based instruction, is a rapidly growing area of tertiary/higher education that has been facilitated by increased usage of home computers and advances in the development of user-friendly interfaces. A range of positive outcomes has accompanied the growth of online…

This volume explores the role and implications of collaborative learning for the mission and future of higher education and college teaching. Part I discusses the implications of nonfoundational social constructionist thought for colleges and universities. Nonfoundational notions of knowledge and social relations argue that knowledge has no…

In 1997-98, all Acadia University (Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada) freshman undergraduate students were required to lease IBM laptop computers for use in their programs. With corporate support from IBM, the campus was wired so that students could have cross-campus and off-campus access to a host of network software as well as the World Wide Web.…

It has become widely accepted that the computer is an indispensable tool in the study of science and technology. Thus, in recent years curricular programs such as Industrial Technology and associated scientific disciplines have been adopting and adapting the computer as a tool in new and innovative ways to support teaching, learning, and research.…

Most Virtual Learning Environments are designed to be simple to use by staff and students alike. We report a case study where this feature has led academic staff to reject formal centralised training and teach themselves how to use the system. What has resulted is widespread use of the system but with poor pedagogic development, leading primarily…

This case study of current practice describes a virtual cross-cultural collaboration in the development of an undergraduate teacher preparation course in educational technology. In an effort to increase the cross-cultural and technological awareness necessary for 21st-century teachers, the authors collaborated on the design and development of an…

Describes the process by which objective tests utilizing an optical mark reader (OMR) were introduced into a number of first-year geography courses at the University of Plymouth (England). Presents the results of various statistical tests including a comparison of student performance in the objective and the traditional essay examinations. (MJP)

Describes a system where advanced placement courses are offered to rural secondary schools via satellite and microcomputer links with Oklahoma State University. Emphasizes the AP chemistry curriculum and explores testing and laboratory difficulties related to satellite teaching. (ML)

Considers ways that technology can enhance teaching and research within the preservice classroom and assist research into national issues affecting art teacher education. Recommends a more thorough integration of multimedia technology into preservice teacher art education. Discusses Internet sites of particular interest to teachers. (MJP)