USING TECHNOLOGY IN TEACHING AND LEARNING. Adam Warren, David Brunner,Pat Maier and Liz Barnett. Kogan Page pound;19.99.

The Teaching and Learning Technology Programme (TLTP) is a multi-million pound higher education project to develop the use of ICT in universities and colleges in the UK. One focus of the programme is the production of staff development materials for academic staff. These two books are a result of some of that work.

Technology in Teaching and Learning - An Introductory Guide provides vital background information for teachers and lecturers on learning technologies available, basic computer knowledge, concepts of networking, and Internet communications. Using Technology in Teaching and Learning explores the issues facing teachers who want to integrate technology into their work. While aimed at higher education, with sections on the universities’ Joint Academic Network (JANet) and case studies covering work at several institutions, both books are useful for teachers in all phases.

The Introductory Guide serves as a reference for filling gaps in technological understanding, or explaining the many acronyms used in the world of computers. The section covering access to on-line information and the range of software that can be used for viewing and downloading files does well to demystify this potentially confusing topic.

Using Technology in Teaching and Learning deals with the use of computers in education from the perspectives of information resources, communications, and software tools, providing an easily understood structure. Its workbook approach makes it a good resource for staff development. Icons are used to identify cross references, further reading, important points and activities. The cross referencing is particularly useful.

Activities are used throughout the book, which encourage reflection on classroom practice, provide check lists and exercises to act as starting points for the use of IT, and encourage careful thinking about both appropriate and inappropriate use.

Both books emphasise the use of communications technology in learning and teaching. Communications technology is high on the agenda for schools following initiatives such as the National Grid for Learning and UK Net Year. These books provide a timely source of information and staff development material for schools.

Les Watson is dean of informationservices at Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education