Read about current research projects or jump down to papers and publications.

Current Research Projects:

Ask Dr. Norm: Connected Classrooms Yakbak
(Virtual Garden Field Trips)

   We are working with the curator of the Michigan 4H Children's garden to develop ongoing science learning experiences linking K-12 classrooms with "Dr. Norm" Lownds and the children's garden.   
   Participating classes chat with Dr. Norm, asking questions and requesting resources (web cam shots of the live garden, plant parts, soil, photos, drawings, maps, stories). Dr. Norm and each child or team can co-browse children's garden web sites while chatting. Dr. Norm can also ask the kids questions.
   The fall field trips begin with an in person visit to the garden and stimulate science learning about earth science, weather, plants, forces in motion, etc. throughout the year.
   Comm Tech Lab research studies use and optimization of design of the ecollaboration interface and supporting garden web sites.

TeleWindows: Changing the Social Fabric of Life for Homebound Elderly

   The maintenance of social connectedness is an important aspect of successful aging. In a research project funded by the National Council on Aging and Ameritech, we are experimenting with a technological solution to social isolation of homebound elderly we call a TeleWindow.
   Like a window in a room, a TeleWindow can be opened anytime to see and hear and be seen and heard by those on the other side of the window. A TeleWindow uses audio, video and network technology to open a window to a distant location.
   Although a TeleWindow could be used like a picturephone to call someone and have a brief conversation, we envision a different use of TeleWindows. Specifically, for our study, TeleWindows are opened and kept open for long periods of time, providing a continuous presence connecting the two locations. Sometimes there will be conversations. Other times it will be more like being in the same room together going about daily life. TeleWindows have the potential to provide a new kind of social relationship: an ambient presence, a shared window between one individual's life and the lives of chosen social group, friends and/or family.

Technology-Enhanced Learning
http://commtechlab.msu.edu/randd/ecollaboration/tech-paper/carrie-tech-paper.htm

Technology-Enhanced Learning Update, May 2000

A proposal for online textbooks and e-collaboration
http://telerelating.com/interact/index.html

Telerelating: An overview
http://telerelating.com/overview.html

West Portal Reports: early experiences with telerelating
http://commtechlab.msu.edu/Humans/heeter/PortalReports/