Over the past decade, computer games and other interactive technologies have shown great potential when used in innovative ways to enhance learning. It is now known that learning is associated not only with cognitive ability but also with affect. The incorporation of affective embodied pedagogical agents (EPAs) in computer programs for learning…

Interactive computer simulations with complex representations and sophisticated graphics are a relatively new addition to the classroom, and research in this area is limited. We have conducted over 200 individual student interviews during which the students described what they were thinking as they interacted with simulations. These interviews…

This work presents innovative cybernetics (feedback) techniques based on Bayesian statistics for drawing questions from an Item Bank towards personalized multi-student improvement. A novel software tool, namely "Module for Adaptive Assessment of Students" (or, "MAAS" for short), implements the proposed (feedback) techniques. In conclusion, a pilot…

Presents eight responses to an article in a previous issue by Mitchell, "The Future of Educational Technology Is Past." Highlights include the theory of educational technology, the future of the field of educational technology, cybernetics, educational psychology, systems theory, the role of teachers, control systems, computer assisted…

This paper describes a project concerned with the understanding of natural language by computers. The project involves the development of both a theoretical model of natural language processing by computer and an actual implementation of the theory. The specific implementation chosen is a question-answering system for elementary mathematics which…

One of the basic problems in relating learning theories to instructional strategies is that traditionally learning theory has researched the micro unit whereas the instructional environment studies the macro unit. Traditionally, instructional strategy research and development takes the learner as he comes, an integrated organism. In learning…

Explores roles of computer technology and real world experiences in the learning process. Encourages teaching of critical viewing skills and other aspects of visual fluency. Forecasts changes in the educational system to accommodate emerging technologies and new ways of thinking and interacting with the world. (LFL)

ON THE PREMISES THAT THE DEVELOPMENT OF PROGRAMED LEARNING BY RESEARCH TEAMS OF SUBJECT AND TECHNIQUE SPECIALISTS IS INDISPUTABLE, AND THAT THE EXPERIENCED TEACHER IN THE ROLE OF INDIVIDUAL TUTOR IS INDISPENSABLE, THE TECHNOLOGY TO SUPPORT PROGRAMED INSTRUCTION MUST BE ADVANCED. AUTOMATED DEVICES EMPLOYING SEQUENTIAL AND BRANCHING TECHNIQUES FOR…

Describes possible applications of new technologies to special education. Discusses results of a study designed to explore the use of robotics, artificial intelligence, and computer simulations to aid people with handicapping conditions. Presents several scenarios in which specific technological advances may contribute to special education…

A full investigation into how and why the expression of potential benefits of computers in schools is hindered would need to consider many aspects, but one point that should be considered is the ever-tightening integration of educational institutions into the global economy. Evidence of the accelerating assimilation of schools into the economy…

This paper presents the concepts of a computer-directed system to improve human performance in structured learning situations. Attention is focused on finite-state systems in order to provide a systematic method for constructing training systems and to assist in analysis of problem solving and curriculum planning. The finite-state approach allows…

It has been claimed that in the near future computers and their accompanying new technology will solve the outstanding problems of education. The authors believe that the problems of implementation, costs, and reliability may slow if not prevent the rapid assimilation of the new educational technology into the average school system. They also…

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.…

Various Soviet conceptions of technology and their influence on the automation of instruction in the Soviet Union are examined, and the history of the development of Soviet programed instruction is sketched. Key principles and techniques from Soviet psychology, pedagogy, computer technology, and cybernetics are explained in terms of their…