Describes methods for item construction for computer-based instruction (CBI). Use of a rational set generator (RSG) in presenting an adaptive sequence of items to the learner is described; a model matrix of a computer-based RSG is presented; concrete and defined concepts are discussed; and rule using is explained. (Four references) (LRW)

Discusses the importance of screen design in computer-based instruction (CBI), and presents a framework for screen design decisions based on the ROPES (Retrieving, Orienting, Presenting, Encoding, and Sequencing) meta-model for instructional design. Psychological, instructional, and technological foundations of screen design are discussed, and…

Research in the field of computer based instruction (CBI) has led to conflicting evidence on the efficacy of learner control over instruction. Typical implementations of learner control in CBI allow learners to proceed at their own pace, control the sequence of instruction, choose the amount of practice, or decide the level of difficulty…

Proposes a criterion for selecting a sequence of objectives from a learning hierarchy and describes a sequence generating algorithm which is designed to generate a minimal memory load sequence from a learning tree. Its effectiveness in generating low memory load sequences from hierarchies that are not trees is also discussed. (RP)

In early 2004, Cabrilog released version "II plus" of their interactive geometry package. According to the author, "Cabri Geometry II plus" is clearly a much more useful package than the earlier version. However, unlike other sophisticated applications packages, the designers have avoided creating so many options that secondary students lose their…

Summarizes an experiment carried out in 1980 with students enrolled in a music theory course for nonmusic majors. Results indicated that competency-based techniques for drill and practice, used by the experimental group on the PLATO system, were more effective than traditional assignments used by the control group. (EAO)

Three methods of sequencing coordinate concepts (simultaneous, collective, and successive) were investigated with a Bayesian, computer-based, adaptive control system. The data analysis showed that when coordinate concepts are taught simultaneously (contextually similar concepts presented at the same time), student performance is superior to either…

A sample of approximately 385 hearing-impaired elementary and secondary school students whose mathematical achievement ranged from second to sixth grades were examined to determine the effectiveness of a computer assisted elementary mathematics program on the acquisition of computational skills. The students selected were from a population of over…

Research on which aspects of the instructional process are most appropriately placed under learner control is reviewed. The review covers representative experiments from the 1960's in brief and experiments at the University of Texas from 1970 to 1973 in more detail. Although it appears that learner control can be helpful in mainline…

Discussion of learner control in instructional management describes six learner control methods: (1) content control; (2) sequence control; (3) pace control; (4) display or strategy control; (5) internal processing control; and (6) advisor strategies. Relevant literature, both theoretical and empirical, is reviewed, and learner control and…

Hirumi's (2002) framework for planning and sequencing e-learning student interactions has two primary objectives. First, it is intended to help facilitators organize student interactions in an e-learning context and promote learning on identified course objectives. Second, the framework is offered as an instructional management device to limit…

The two studies detailed in this paper investigated the effects of adaptive sequencing of examples and adaptive feedback on concept learning using computer-based instruction. In the first study, two groups of undergraduate students progressed through a set of five behavior management concepts presented in the rational set generator framework.…

Four recently developed computer programs can help students with the composition process. The first, a prewriting program, helps students prepare to write by asking them a series of questions, similar to those an instructor would ask, intended to help them think more deeply about their subject. The second writing program also contains prewriting…

A program, developed to train teachers to use the computer, is based on the belief that adults acquire computer literacy in the same way that children do: sequentially and with hands-on experience. Programming is taught first. Reliance is placed on peer teaching as well as teaching by a skilled instructor. The role of play is emphasized in…

With the advent of the computer as an instructional tool many curriculum specialists have been designing software for reading instruction. However, most of the software designed to help develop reading comprehension skills does not consider the inclusion of monitoring comprehension strategies, therefore limiting the instructional potential of the…