A graduate pharmacy course in experimental design for clinical research is described. Students work in groups to design clinically feasible, statistically valid studies on assigned problems. Individual students also perform statistical analyses on data sets generated from similar clinical studies conducted by faculty. Observations about grading…

Describes the Network-Based Instructional Systems Development model for developing Web-based virtual training courses that incorporate social interaction and collaborative learning strategies in a self-directed learning environment within a Korean corporate context. Topics include problem-based learning; constructivism; resource-based learning;…

Belief in a "web of support" helped a San Diego-area high school make structural adjustments that foster inclusion while challenging all students. Inclusive curriculum design requires planners to develop a central issue or question, identify richly detailed source material, and design a culminating project and interrelated lessons. (MLH)

The term "game-based learning" has emerged as a general name for the use of computer games in education. Despite early work showing rich inferential learning taking place as a result of gameplay, most game-based learning has been geared towards using a game as a host into which curricular content can be embedded. This approach can be problematic,…

This article describes how online discussion groups and visual collaboration can be used in combination to build and support a virtual community of learners. Data derived from several online discussion groups are presented, and the support needs of learners are highlighted as a key factor of success. (Contains 1 figure.)

Many researchers and instructional designers increasingly recognise the benefits of utilising three dimensional virtual reality (VR) technology in instruction. In general, there are two types of VR system, the immersive system and the non-immersive system. This article focuses on the latter system that merely uses the conventional personal…

Support is needed to promote problem-based learning (PBL) and to enhance critical thinking skills in discussion-based Internet forums. By advancing the capabilities of chat room and forum software, problem-based discussions for learning can be supported further in online learning environments. In this paper, the authors report on MALESAbrain, an…

This paper describes the pedagogical impact of real-world experimental projects undertaken as part of an advanced undergraduate fluid mechanics subject at an Australian university. The projects have been organized to complement traditional lectures and introduce students to the challenges of professional design, physical modelling, data collection…

This paper reports on the design and implementation of a project-based course--World Water Problems--that was introduced within the framework of introductory undergraduate geography education. The aims of the course were twofold: (1) to cultivate in students a world geographic perspective on water problems; and (2) to conduct an original research…

Students of the pedagogy of teaching have found that cooperative/problem-based learning activities engage the learner, promote ownership of the material, advance the development of higher-level cognitive skills and increase retention better than more passive learning activities. Despite broad recognition within the political science discipline…

At most land-grant universities in the USA, Introduction to Soil Science is traditionally taught using a combination of lecture and laboratory formats. To promote engagement, improve comprehension, and enhance retention of content by students, we developed a problem-based learning (PBL) introductory soil science course. Students work in groups to…

This discussion of teaching science as a design activity emphasizes open-ended problem solving. Highlights include the relationship between teachers and students; hypotheses as solutions; and descriptions of four microworlds, or computer simulations, in chemistry, geography, physiology, and genetics which use graphic interfaces. (LRW)

This paper discusses online tools that support an essential element of technology planning--the staff responsible for integrating technology in their curricula. Two solutions using different strategies to address the critical area of support for technology implementers are examined, i.e., the online Stages of Concern about the Innovation…

This document describes a case study of seven community colleges that used curriculum and pedagogy to integrate academic and occupational education. Integration is accomplished by linking or clustering courses, infusing academic instruction into occupational education or vice versa, or adding components such as authentic assessment, career…

In October 1998, the Coordinating Board Committee of the Department of Education at the University of Texas--Pan American (UTPA) recommended adoption of a problem-based learning model for use in the university's stand-alone doctoral program in educational administration. This recommendation came despite some apprehension and confusion among some…