This concise and practical text
describes the major educational computer applications and provides methods
for using computer tools effectively in the teaching/learning process.
The author focuses on the word
processor, database, spreadsheet, Internet, and hypermedia software–tools
that all classrooms with computers have. The text is independent of
hardware and equally applicable to Macs or PCs, and speaks to methods that
apply across grade levels and disciplines. The text has been extensively
class tested and written from the perspective of what will work for
teachers. Many helpful models, lesson plans, skill–building tips and
activities are included to allow students to pick up this book and put
it to use in the classroom right away.
- "Knowledge tools" used by the scientific,
business, and professional community like word processors, databases,
spreadsheets, and presentation/Internet authoring software help students
work with and make information their own, new research has expanded the
breadth and depth of the way we think about the potential of these
tools. Focus is on the applications teachers can readily use in
their classrooms; word processing, databases, spreadsheets, the Internet
and hypermedia.
- Unique “Virtual Field Trips” in several
chapters show readers what works and doesn't work in a real-life
setting.
- Every learning model is evaluated against Bloom's
Taxonomy so that readers can see how assignments with a computer can be
connected to a learning outcome.
- Throughout the text, the learning models in use are
applied across content areas and grade levels, providing wide
application for many levels of teaching.
- Throughout the text, activities called “Checking
Your Understanding” prompt students to use higher-order thinking
skills to analyze problems and topics discussed in the text.
- Lists of computer skills that students must have to
use the models are detailed in many chapters so that students can work
ahead to acquire needed computer skills prior to applying them in the
classroom.
- Margin notes, boxes, and appendices provide
additional resources for students.
- Extensive and hard-to-find references to data
sources on the Internet provide raw material for students to apply as
they learn to use databases and spreadsheets (Chs. 12 &
13).