This discussion of validation procedures for learning hierarchies based on an analysis of a target skill of instruction to aid in the instructional development process indicates that there is no catalog of validated hierarchies available for this use, and that the literature provides little assistance to the developer seeking practical procedures.…

Evaluates, in question/answer form, the available research literature on giving instructions/directions in terms of their effect on learning; presents a few guidelines on writing directions for practitioners; and points out some "missing links" in the area of research. (Author)

Reviews instructional design research and theory and relates it to the design of computer-based instructional materials. Instructional design guidelines are offered to aid software developers in making design decisions on three macrolevel and four microlevel of instruction. (Author/LRW)

Arguing that the evolution of intelligent tutoring systems better reflects the recent theoretical developments of cognitive science than traditional computer-based instruction (CBI), this paper describes a general model for an intelligent tutoring system and suggests ways to improve CBI using design principles derived from research in cognitive…

This discussion of formative evaluation as part of the instructional design process focuses on developmental testing and expert review. A review of the literature helps define each approach, research on formative evaluation is reviewed, and 37 references are provided. (LRW)

This extensive review of research on the development of print materials covers text readability, structure of the prose, and organizational and format features of the text. Practical guidelines for developing textual materials that can be supported by empirical research are also presented. Conclusions are then drawn from the literature, and areas…

This paper examines the changing instructional role of the high school librarian from 1951 to 1984 to determine: (1) if the purported changes in the instructional role have been fictional or factual; (2) if the changes were those of substance or of form; (3) if the changes represented a process of growth and development in direct relationship to…

This paper reviews relevant experimental literature on certain components of printed instructional materials which are commonly used in early childhood education for normal, at-risk, and handicapped children. The components examined include the use of color, instances of concepts, language style, number of answer options, the use of pictures and…

A review of the literature on systematic instructional design suggests that few empirically tested guidelines exist for testing and revising materials during the development stages. The revision process can broadly be based on one of two distinct strategies, internal review or developmental testing. Internal review strategies include referring…

Electronic learning (or "e-learning) has become an integral part of organizational training. E-learning may be delivered via numerous electronic media, including the Internet, intranets, extranets, satellite broadcast, audio/videotape, interactive television, and CD-ROM. At its best, e-learning is individual, customized learning that allows…

This monograph examines benefits, challenges, and methods of expanding access to adult literacy with online distance education (ODE). The following are among the topics discussed: (1) reasons for considering ODE (new technologies and delivery systems in education; ODE in higher education, business training, and adult basic education; state-level…