The Reference Shelf

Vol. 7, No. 1 • Jan/Feb 2000

Campfires in Cyberspace
by Jean Reese

THE REFERENCE SHELF column presents a favorable review of "Campfires in Cyberspace" ($24.95) by David D. Thornburg, published in 1999 by Starsong Publications of San Carlos, CA. Says that this 163-page, softcover book provides challenging ways to think about how the World Wide Web can be used as a unique tool for education purposes. Notes that in the first half of the book, the author takes the reader along on a journey of what his understanding of learning is and what it should be. Cites six aspects of the Web that the author believes make it unique and says that the book explains how these qualities work in connection with designing a Web course. Recommends this book for anyone who wants to design effective online courses using the Web. Concludes that while philosophical in nature, its content is still practical and relevant for the education community.

Educating with the Internet: Using Net Resources at School and Home, 2nd Edition
by Jean Reese

THE REFERENCE SHELF column presents a favorable review of "Educating with the Internet: Using Net Resources at School and Home, 2nd Edition" ($35.95) by Nancy Skomars, published in 1999 by Charles River Media, Inc. of Rockland, MA. Says that this 440-page softcover book provides updates of half the lesson plans and much of the directory information from the first edition. Relates that the book contains three parts "Using the Net in Your Classroom," "Sites for All You Teach," and "Living with the Net." Indicates that the book's core is the well-organized lesson plan chapters and a CD accompanying the book provides more lesson plans, technology updates, and other resources. Concludes that the detailed lessons and tips provide a solid foundation for anyone who wishes to get a jumpstart on using the Internet in their classroom.

Literature Online: Reading and Internet Activities for Libraries and Schools
by Jean Reese

THE REFERENCE SHELF column presents a favorable review of "Literature Online: Reading and Internet Activities for Libraries and Schools" ($16.95) by Karen A. Moran, published by Upstart Books, an imprint of Highsmith Press of Fort Atkinson, WI. Says that this 80-page softcover book covers Web sites and curricular activities for 38 popular children's literature works, targeting students in grades 4-8. States that the core of this publication is the reading and Internet activities for the featured books. Reports that the activities contain a bibliographic citation, along with a suggested reading list and short summary. Adds that appendices include a glossary of computer terms and offer more professional resources. Calls it a handy, activity-oriented book that will provide children with a means to read some of their favorite books and use the Internet as well.

Technology Tools in the Social Studies Curriculum
by Jean Reese

THE REFERENCE SHELF column presents a favorable review of "Technology Tools in the Social Studies Curriculum" ($20.95) by Joseph A. Braun, Jr., Phyllis Fernlund, and Charles S. White, published in 1998 by Franklin, Beedle & Associates of Wilsonville, OR. Says that this 403-page softcover book is primarily intended for education students at the college level, but will also appeal to educators who want to increase their awareness and knowledge of the technological changes in education, more specifically, the social sciences. Includes a historical overview of social studies and discusses software and technology for research, as well as databases and other forms of software that can be used as tools. Notes that some of the Internet material is a bit out-of-date, but other chapters provide an in-depth look at the use of technology in the social studies curriculum.

Virtual Instruction: Issues and Insights from an International Perspective
by Jean Reese

THE REFERENCE SHELF column presents a favorable review of "Virtual Instruction: Issues and Insights from an International Perspective" ($45), edited by Carine M. Feyten and Joyce W. Nutta, published by Libraries Unlimited of Englewood, CO. Says that this 262-page softcover book seeks to take a global perspective on the subject of distance learning, or virtual instruction. Adds that it explores various theoretical issues as well as practical ideas for implementation almost anywhere in the world. Reports that video conferencing, Web-based instruction, cost effectiveness, effects of cultural differences, and more are among the issues addressed by an international group of contributors. Notes that it is not geared only to the K-12 community, but seeks to address some of the questions, expectations, and future of this technology.