9553371 Fischer The research methodology of our proposal rests on a tight integration of theory, innovative system development, and assessment. To achieve the focus on theory development, we will focus the innovative system development on one project, namely the Remote Exploratorium which combines design environments with networking. Our theory development will be supported through our strategic alliances-alliances that we have developed over the last few years ranging from K-12 schools (New Vista High School, Boulder), universities (Integrated Teaching and Learning Laboratory, CU Boulder), and corporations (NYNEX Science and Technology; and Apple Computer). In the context of these alliances we will study specifically. * teachers as lifelong learners, and * the integration of learning into working rather than regarding learning as a separate activity. We will develop a conceptual framework founded on the objective that learners of all ages should be engaged in authentic, self- directed learning supported by innovative technologies. This framework, as it develops, needs to be radically different from most other approaches of using computers. ***
