Argues that research in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) needs to give more attention to contextual factors that exert significant and profound effects on the introduction of technology into language learning. Three contextual factors are highlighted the rate of technological innovation and change; the uneven introduction of technology…

By providing access, data and new forms of literacy and communication practices, it is widely accepted that networked technologies have done much to promote learner autonomy. However, in practical terms, the lack of resources, expertise and research investigations into learner interaction have all too often meant that autonomous learning is…

This report describes a project that used the computer-assisted instruction in conjunction with a textbook in a 3-year beginning German language class at a British university. Students received 6 hours per week of German language instruction: 2 hours with a human instructor, 3 hours of self-study in the language laboratory, and 1 hour of…

This booklet provides an overview of IST (Individualized Study by Technology) programs at small, isolated rural high schools in Alaska, which use individualized microcomputer-based courses to provide a more complete curriculum. First, a general description is given of the IST program, which utilizes teachers, traditional texts, and printed…

Research investigated: 1) the effect of instructional mode on student achievement; 2) the relationship between a) the student factors of aptitude, sex, previous achievement, educational level, and academic major and b) achievement; and 3) the possibility of a homogeneity of regression equations for achievement of students in varying instructional…

This paper describes the use of commercial application and programming software to provide language students with self-access materials used in their own time. In all cases, it assumes such students will be unsupervised. The idea is that in place of buying expensive and restricted commercially produced authoring packages, a teacher with limited…

Describes a systematic instructional process that incorporates the general steps of problem solving to develop a World Wide Web-based independent study course. Highlights include the educational setting, learner characteristics, method of assessment, learning processes, course assignments, interaction between faculty and students, course content,…

A pharmacy student's suggestions for improving pharmaceutical education include increased emphasis on thinking skills in instruction and testing, incorporation of computer modules for independent study, a requirement that faculty periodically spend time in the field, review of laboratory experiments for relevance to practice, and improved…

Results of two studies of microcomputer use for second language instruction at the secondary level are reported. The investigation is based on observations made at the University of Illinois' University High School, which serves academically talented students from the surrounding area. The school's computer laboratory uses software packages for…

A classification scheme for multimedia interaction is described based on the degree of control and type of cognitive engagement experienced by learners in prescriptive, democratic, and cybernetic independent learning environments. Reactive, proactive, and mutual levels of interaction and their associated functions and transactions are discussed.…

Intended to serve as a guide to the development of basic computer competencies for students in teacher preparation programs or as inservice training for teachers, this primarily self-instructional manual provides basic information, worksheets, computer programs, and hands-on learning activities for 16 proficiencies related to computer literacy.…

This booklet is the second of three sequels to "A Guide to the Selection of Instructional Methods." Following a brief introduction, the characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses of five individualized learning techniques are examined: (1) directed study of material in textbooks; (2) study of specially-prepared hand-out notes or…

THIS GUIDE EXPLAINS HOW A COMPUTER MIGHT BE USED IN MATHEMATICS EDUCATION IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE REGULAR COURSE OF STUDY. STARTING WITH THE PREMISE THAT A CHILD WHO LEARNS TO OPERATE A COMPUTER IS LED BY HIS NEW SELF ESTEEM TOWARD A GREATER INTEREST IN HIS COURSES, THE AUTHORS STATE THAT COMPUTER EDUCATION WILL ALSO MEET THESE OBJECTIVES--(1)…

An experimental course for the study of acoustics is taught at Hampshire College for students interested in the interface of physics and music. This paper outlines the course, describes the basic techniques it employs, gives examples of successful exercises, and discusses some difficulties not yet overcome. Computers are heavily utilized, removing…

Illinois State University operates a self-paced, competency-based teacher education program known as the Professional Sequence. It is based on the General Model of Instruction used at other universities and is organized around a series of self-instructional packages. Student progress is charted by a set of computer programs called the Surveillance…