Computer-Based Education in the Social Studies


Book Description

Computers have not revolutionized social studies curricula because so few teachers use them. But research does indicate that computers are flexible instructional tools that can assist in the development of attitudes, intellectual motivation, and inquiry skills. Social studies educators need to consider expanded computer use in their classrooms because computers assist in the preparation of students for effective participation in society. Teachers must understand how technology affects instruction, learning, and classroom environments, along with the types of effective instructional strategies that can be used to achieve specific goals. Educators should acquire the knowledge and experience needed to use computers by reviewing research relating to computer use in teaching and to instructional strategies. Information on research concerning the impact of computers on students, how computers change the way teachers' work, computers' effect on the training process, and computers' influence on the social studies curriculum is included. Necessary teacher competencies and appropriate instructional uses are explored through an analysis of teacher utility programs, databases, data analysis programs, and simulations. A 76-item bibliography concludes the document. (JHP)




Computer-Aided Processes in Instruction and Research


Book Description

Computer-Aided Processes in Instruction and Research focuses on the use of computers in instruction and research. Topics covered include computer-aided data acquisition and instruction; computer-aided drafting with interface for finite element mesh generation; the use of microcomputers in mechanical engineering education; and microcomputer-aided structural analysis. Computer-aided learning in problem-oriented courses is also discussed, together with the synthesis of electronics education through introductory robotics. This book is comprised of 24 chapters and begins with a discussion on the course content and the use of computer performance software by students during the design process. The following chapters explore the development of microcomputer-aided mechanical engineering software at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; the data acquisition process and relevant laboratory exercises, as well as the uncertainties associated with measurements involving digital systems; and intelligent computer-aided instruction. Some of the problems that arise in the process of developing a computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing/computer-aided engineering curriculum in a school of engineering are highlighted. The final chapter features the Robotics Application Laboratory within the Engineering Technology Department of Texas A&M University. This monograph will be of value to students, educators, administrators, and other professionals interested in computer-assisted instruction and research.
















Type II Uses of Technology in Education


Book Description

Spark your students to actually want to learn through the creative application of technology! Type II applications in education make it possible to teach in new and more effective ways. Type II Uses of Technology in Education: Projects, Case Studies, and Software Applications clearly explains methods and strategies presently used by teachers to offer students a creative learning experience through the application of technology. Each chapter presents individual examples of how teachers have applied technology in schools and classrooms, illustrating through case studies, projects, and software applications how to effectively spark students’ interest and learning. Type II Uses of Technology in Education is the third in a series (Internet Applications of Type II Uses of Technology in Education and Classroom Integration of Type II Uses of Technology in Education, both from Haworth) that provides a clear view of the advantagesand challengesinvolved in the use of technology to enhance and actively involve students in the learning process. The applications described and discussed at length here go beyond the mundane educational functions like grading or presenting drill and practice exercises to explore fresh ways of teaching and learning. Students can become involved and actually want to learn, all through the use of creative technology application. The book also includes tables and figures to enhance understanding of the material. Type II Uses of Technology in Education discusses: data collection, analysis, and communication in student research using pocket PCs and laptops the educational effect of using a learning object as a pedagogical model rather than simply being technological in nature examples of integrated Type II activities e-learning courses using interactive video, WebCT, and on-site discussion groups electronic discussion applications in a laptop university teacher education program challenges facing students using computers to enhance and express the extent of their learning information and communication technology (ICT) integration into schoolsusing three illustrative case studies forward planning needed to make the difficult change to technological application for learning a case study that used problem-based learning software with at-risk students using technology to reinforce visual learning strategies digital portfolio development as a Type II application interactive computer technology in art instruction on-demand help features for effective interactive learning experience Personal Educational Tools (PETs) Type II Uses of Technology in Education: Projects, Case Studies, and Software Applications provides numerous illustrations of technology learning in action and is perfect for educators and students in programs dealing with information technology in education, and for public school personnel with interests and responsibilities in using information technology in the classroom.