Discusses using individualized distance learning classes via the Internet to meet the needs of gifted children in elementary and middle schools. Addresses the proven effectiveness of Internet instruction and the need for professional educators to develop courses in collaboration with exceptional programmers. (CR)

Describes the use of interactive video (IV) in initial teacher training in the United Kingdom. Learner control is discussed, and five types of IV use are highlighted: (1) as a presentation system; (2) for independent student learning; (3) as a resource for students on teaching practice; (4) as an information source; and (5) as a surrogate tutor.…

Considers three main components of self-directed learning: (1) topic knowledge; (2) procedural skills; and (3) self-monitoring. The role of computer-assisted instruction in autonomous learning is discussed, software that fosters independent problem solving is reviewed, and it is recommended that computers be incorporated in courses emphasizing…

Argues that provision enhancements for autonomous language learning must be accompanied by improvements in the accessibility of information, an upgrade entailing the use of a database system to catalogue resources. The article presents the case for upgrading and computerizing resource catalogues, describes its implementation at a university, and…

Examined whether students' motivational reaction toward self-study text could be influenced by the inclusion of additional instructional materials (nonprint media). Participants were 969 students enrolled in an independent study course. Results suggest that student motivation in print-based self-study courses can be improved by the inclusion of…

Assessed use of server statistics to evaluate utilization of web-based computer assisted instruction (CAI) in the undergraduate medical curriculum. No correlation was found between students' computer literacy at matriculation and subsequent levels of CAI use. Utilization of CAI developed for specific course objectives coincided closely with course…

The design of computer materials for self-directed language learning is discussed from two points of view: (1) adaptability or flexibility of computer materials; and (2) the potential and limitations of computer-assisted instruction for enhancing autonomous learning. Important considerations in designing flexible materials through careful…

A program was developed using computer-assisted instruction to enable gifted primary-level students to learn the basic elements of note reading in the treble clef at individual speeds and without stress of competition. The target group was selected from students enrolled in beginning and advanced ukulele classes. The computer-assisted instruction…

Computer Aided Instruction for Teacher Education (CAITE) is a system of individualized self-instructional materials designed to teach educators basic information, attitudes, and skills related to mainstreaming. This booklet is to be used with the first of 16 modules in the set. The module provides instruction on: (1) the target audience for the…

CLIOTUTOR is a computer-assisted instructional package of 30 tutorial lessons keyed to a standard text and operated with a VAX computer system. Western Michigan University, a member of the CLIOTUTOR consortium, operates its own copy of the program in conjunction with a redesigned two-semester freshman history course. CLIOTUTOR provides a half-hour…

A study was made to determine how the rate of spelling and the retention of spelling words was influenced by the number and spacing of practice presentations on unlearned words. Sixth-grade students (42) in East Palo Alto were drilled by a computer for 6 weeks on six lists of 12 different spelling words each. They drilled on one list until (1)…

This manual was designed to accompany a computer software resource (Macintosh diskette and three CD-Rom discs) aimed at helping students with no previous musical knowledge, develop specific comprehension skills in classical music. The materials are based on the premise that conventional musical forms are abstract prototypes of whole classes of…

Discusses the need to focus on student learning processes and strategies rather than only on technology in the classroom. Topics include classrooms, laboratories, and virtual laboratories; learning outside classrooms or laboratories; training professors; learning skills students need, including technology training; multimedia; team teaching;…

Describes a study that examined the potential of a hypermedia-based expert tool to scaffold regular education sixth graders engaged in a problem-based learning program. Topics include cognitive apprenticeship support for problem-based learning; using hypermedia to offer expert modeling; attitudes toward the learning environment; and self-directed…

The University of Iowa College of Medicine developed an independent study component for its Introduction to Clinical Medicine course. An evaluation of instructional software in order to determine its value to the course is described. (Author/MLW)