New Science of Learning: Cognition, Computers and Collaboration in Education
The earliest educational software simply transferred print material from the page to the monitor. Since then, the Internet and other digital media have brought students an ever-expanding, low-cost knowledge base and the opportunity to interact with minds around the globe—while running the risk of shortening their attention spans, isolating them from interpersonal contact, and subjecting them to information overload.
Virtual Worlds are a new interface through which people can meet and collaborate with others using their natural voice, sharing PowerPoint presentations, videos, team meetings, as well as other sorts of simulations and role playing. 'Education in Second Life' is an important type of distance learning. Certainly it enables classes to meet without the overhead that goes with the traditional brick and mortar classroom building.
The Behavior Education Program (BEP) was developed for the approximately 10–15% of students who fail to meet schoolwide disciplinary expectations but do not yet require intensive, individualized services. Clear, step-by-step guidelines are provided for implementing the approach, which incorporates daily behavioral feedback, positive adult attention, and increased home–school collaboration. In a large-size format with lay-flat binding to facilitate photocopying, the book includes reproducible daily progress reports, handouts, and planning tools.
Exploring the Intersection of Science Education and 21st Century Skills
An emerging body of research suggests that a set of broad "21st century skills"--such as adaptability, complex communication skills, and the ability to solve non-routine problems--are valuable across a wide range of jobs in the national economy. However, the role of K-12 education in helping students learn these skills is a subject of current debate.
