What Does Dr. Cobitz like to study?

Briefly, just about anything that has a strong foundation in the philosophy that underlies our world.

Democracy is founded on the premise of citizens who are knowledgeable and capable of understanding complex concepts.  Jefferson discussed these citizens as "renaissance men" this is a good characterization (although gender biased).  Fundamental to this notion are two important institutions, schools and libraries.  Schools provide citizens with the ability to learn and gain new insights, libraries are the repository for these insights.

In late 20th century society, libraries allow citizens to access knowledge.  The divide between the "haves" and "have nots" is growing.  In example, 50% of white households have computers vs. only 25% of minority homes (according to a recent issue of Time magazine).  As we move forward, libraries will ultimately be the hope for those citizens without Internet or other computer access, in the same way they provide the access to books for those who otherwise could not afford them.

More specifically, lately I have been working to do some practical applications of network technologies:

• interactive virtual world
• web updateable databases
• web searchable databases
• lots of teacher education
• web based instruction
• tool development
• web as a dissemination tool
• technology as a tool for counselors
• technology to simulate situations as a training method
• technology as a tool for socialization of children
• acquisition of educational theories
• major test item writer for the NC computer skills test
• author of many model lesson  plans for integrating computer skills into other curriculum
• member of the customer focus group for the NCWISE solution
• implementing shared and on-line calendars

Where is this going?

A current project about to begin is the development of on-line activities supported by a classroom magazine.

• print media for students to hold
• on-line so technology enhanced
• self scoring tests
• growth instead of pure achievement
• store scores
• remediate based on results
• 5 systems (Durham, Thomasville, Pender, Rockingham, Lee)

An on-line database development project co-sponsored by the NC DPI.

• historic highway markers
• on-line entry of images and data
• on-line query
• information skills
• state-wide
• funding is pending

Interactive cartoons

• put user in the role
• see results of actions
• low level VR system

Assessments of social justice awareness

• for school students
• comparisons of different populations
• fundamental to providing education to educators

A center for instructional technology related materials development

• recommended to the administrative cabinet at A&T
• work with schools and others to develop niche software
• fundamental tool is Internet
• entrepreneurial
• Barbie owns educational software