The effectiveness of science problem-based learning (PBL) is highly dependent on individual students' variability. Researchers have shown the need for cognition (NFC) and motivation are significant factors. Despite the acknowledged impact of these constructs, there is a gap in understanding the relationships among NFC, motivation, and learning…

Self-explanation prompts in example-based learning are usually directed backwards: Learners are required to self-explain problem-solving steps just presented ("retrospective" prompts). However, it might also help to self-explain upcoming steps ("anticipatory" prompts). The effects of the prompt type may differ for learners with…

Presenting novices with examples and problems is an effective and efficient way to acquire new problem-solving skills. Nowadays, examples and problems are increasingly presented in computer-based learning environments, in which learners often have to self-regulate their learning (i.e., choose what type of task to work on and when). Yet, it is…