This study examines whether feelings of relatedness constitute a substantial means by which learning communities (cohorts) improve learning outcomes in higher education. It applies Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory to an analysis of the National Survey of Student Engagement. The SDT hypothesizes that environments that support perceptions…

Great emphasis and recognition has been given to the potential of lifelong learning in the new millennium and the vast body of research on eLearning in Higher Education. However, to-date little research has been undertaken to review eLearning in the workplace. The present study aims to fill this gap to some degree by conducting a comparative…

Discusses the goals, the theoretical base, and the implementation of the Personalized System of Instruction in speech communication courses. (MH)

Nine motivational principles with several old and new devices for implementation of each one in the classroom are suggested. The principles provided contain advice such as: allow each student to master basic skills before advancing; encourage students to place emphasis on self competition; and encourage class interaction. (JMD)

The Workshop on Instructional Development was one of a number of workshops organized on various issues concerning teaching and learning in the Ontario universities. It was held in an attempt to provide some exchange of information among the Ontario universities on the organized activities initiated on their campuses concerned with improving…

This paper investigates the joint effects of intrinsic and extrinsic goals on college students' learning in an introductory psychology course, a biology course, and several social science courses. The study questioned whether higher levels of motivation lead to better student performance. College students were surveyed using the Intrinsic Goal…

Based on a literature review, reasons for physician participation in traditional continuing medical education programs are categorized as: professionalism, an interest in topics, a means of validating or modifying prior learning, a means to attain a learning objective, and a change of pace. Inner motivation is seen as a more important reason than…

Not long ago, foreign languages were taught in schools and colleges not for practical use or cultural understanding, but for intellectual discipline, understanding of English grammar and syntax, vocabulary enrichment, or to allow reading of foreign literature. The space race and development of jet travel changed attitudes toward language learning…

A number of individualized approaches to student learning are reviewed: Keller plan, refined linear model, variable route model, modular learning model, and independent study. Each successive approach offers students an increasingly wider degree of choice to determine goals and the means of achieving them. (Author/MLW)

A review of contributions to the Modern Languages Project of the Council for Cultural Cooperation shows that all the project activities derive from the recognition of the importance of stimulating and maintaining motivation. Studies have shown that the key to this objective is the willingness to let participants take responsibility for their own…

C. S. Dweck's achievement goals model was tested by examining relationships between individual differences in achievement-goal tendencies and perceived causality for 123 undergraduates (45 males and 78 females). The stronger each performance-goal tendency, the more unstable and controllable low ability was perceived. Inconsistencies with Dweck's…

This review of cognitive development research in the area of computer-based reading instruction focuses on reinforcement and instructional objectives. Differences between extrinsic and intrinsic reinforcement and motivation are discussed, types of objectives and learner characteristics are described, and implications for instructional design are…

Major functions of teaching assistants (TAs) and innovative methods are proposed. TAs help students learn through interaction, coach students in higher thinking skills, and provide a communication channel to integrate the course. A course planning guide based on performance objectives and classroom activities to stimulate student participation are…

For learning to take place the following dimensions, constituting a set of conditions, must be present: (1) a willing learner; (2) a willing teacher; (3) content; and (4) a suitable setting. There is a dialectical relationship among these variables. Applies this argument to find reasons why adult learners have difficulties. (JS)

Discusses a case of language program revitalization at a major metropolitan university. Results of a pilot study aimed at assessing students' needs and redefining the goals and objectives of a traditional French program are presented. (Author/VWL)