Programs for learning-disabled students generally emphasize basic skills acquisition, are highly individualized, use diagnostic-prescriptive methods, and are based on mastery learning principles. A more holistic approach is advocated and would include the content areas, systematic group interaction and instruction, experiential learning…

Presents an overview of the basic features of two highly related models of college instruction; the Personalized System of Instruction and the Contingency Managed Lecture. Both are based on behavioral principles and have been tested and implemented on a large scale. (Author/JEG)

Demonstrates how Bayesian reasoning can be used to adjust the length of computer-guided practice exercises and computer-based tests to help make mastery or nonmastery decisions. Individualization of instruction is discussed, and the results of an empirical study that used the sequential probability ratio test (SPRT) are presented. (25 references)…

Considers new modes of course organization that are based on computers, videodisc players, compact disk players, and other components of interactive technology. Topics discussed include student control of content and pace, ways of learning, mastery courses, learning cycles, hypercourses (non-linear courses), and student organized courses. (17…

In this practicum, 15 learning-disabled pupils in grades two and three participated in an individualized program featuring mastery learning, a personalized system of instruction, attention to learning style and modality, and behavior modification, in order to improve reading levels and poor behavior. Program components included learning stations,…

While formative evaluation is widley used in the field of instruction, the procedures for adapting formative evaluation from a mastery to a traditional, or nonmastery, learning system have not been clearly specified. This paper defines formative evaluation and its related functions following Bloom's model, describes the myths of applying Bloom's…

The audio-tutorial systems in earth science was developed at St. Petersburg Junior College in response to an unacceptable but not atypical student failure rate at the community college level. This description of the program includes: (1) history of program development, (2) use of student tutors, (3) experimentation with a student paced, mastery…

The challenge of structuring college curriculum to meet all of the educational needs of new students to higher education (those who would not be in college except for open admissions policies) is considered in this book. Research studies on teaching, learning, and student development form the basis for improvements in college programs outlined.…

An experiment in an introductory psychology course investigated whether gains in final exam performance, similar to those reported in the personalized system of instruction (PSI) literature, could be obtained by substituting a computer for human proctors. The course was divided into two sections, with a sample of 17 students in section 1 matched…

This document records the procedures followed by the South Carolina State Board for Technical and Comprehensive Education in developing a two-year curriculum for civil engineering technology with a learner-oriented, open-entry/open-ended individualized format relying heavily on the use of audiovisual aids and hands-on experience with software and…

An experiment compared three methods of instruction in an introductory course in psychology. The first method utilized groups of three students and required that all three students meet the criterion on each unit of material in the course before being allowed to continue on to other units. This system also required that students do all remediation…

This paper describes the development and implementation of an individualized instruction-evaluation system used in a third-quarter chemistry course at Cuyahoga Community College (Ohio). The system included: (1) 20 performance objectives covering the three modules in the course; (2) an instructional sequence for each objective composed of a variety…

These units of study provide the basis for a semester long independent course of study in United States history for high school students. The major theme of the 16 units is technological and social change and how people throughout history have reacted to it. Students read, take a mastery test, and review results with the instructor. Extra credit…

Looks at the Central Technical Community College (CTCC) in Hastings, Nebraska which has developed institutionwide individualized instruction, utilizing a self-paced, competency-based modular approach, and an open entry/exit system that allows students to enroll and graduate any working day during the school year. (TP)

The author discusses various ways that children differ biologically and relates these to their needs during the learning process. Tutoring, individual inquiry, and mastery learning are included in the discussion. (SA)