This particular electronic encyclopedia is so user friendly, intuitive, graphic and powerful that learning seems just like eating a hot fudge sundae. Up to now, rich information harvesting was not offered up in many networked lab situations, but suddenly the joys of making meaning can be illustrated in very personal terms for teachers who might never otherwise understand how technology might open new windows to the world. When introducing groups to new technologies and new programs, whether they be children or adults, I have relied increasingly on pairs and teams sharing computers rather than individuals working in isolation on their own machines. I have found that this move dramatically increases the success level of all groups and immediately communicates the appropriateness of mutual support. Freed of isolation, participants rely less upon the instructor and more upon each other to resolve frustrations.
Teams adjust pacing and experimentation to fit personal needs, preferences and curiosity.
Some dive for the graphics. Others focus in on text searches. Originally cancelled for inadequate enrollment, this group was recruited by a few eager souls who had heard good things about the winter session of the same course. That's a pretty tall order. Even more challenging was the focus upon numerical data.