The goal of the present study was to examine the mechanisms underlying a strategy that we developed to make instructional explanations effective. In two experiments participants learned about plate tectonics from a multimedia material, including adjunct explanations that revised common misunderstandings. These explanations were either marked…

Learning algebra is difficult for many students in part because of an emphasis on the memorization of abstract rules. Algebraic reasoners across expertise levels often rely on perceptual-motor strategies to make these rules meaningful and memorable. However, in many cases, rules are provided as patterns to be memorized verbally, with little overt…

Although generally used for assessment, tests can also serve as tools for learning--but different test formats may not be equally beneficial. Specifically, research has shown multiple-choice tests to be less effective than cued-recall tests in improving the later retention of the tested information (e.g., see meta-analysis by Hamaker, 1986),…

THE EXPERIMENT DESCRIBED IN THIS REPORT INVESTIGATED THE EFFECTS UPON CRITERION PERFORMANCE OF THE LEARNER'S TEST-ANXIETY LEVEL AND THE PRESENCE OR ABSENCE OF FEEDBACK IN PROGRAMED INSTRUCTION. FOUR EXPERIMENTAL HYPOTHESES WERE TESTED DURING THE PROJECT. THE PROCEDURE EMPLOYED IDENTIFIED EXTREME GROUPS ON A MEASURE OF TEST ANXIETY, AND THEN…

The relative effectiveness of learning aids as measured by tests for achievement, transfer of acquired skills to novel situations, and ability to retain principles for students of varying abilities and age levels were examined in a series of studies at George Peabody College for Teachers. (Author)

McCarthy (1985) constructed the 4MAT teaching model, an eight step instrument developed in 1980, by synthesizing Dewey's experiential learning, Kolb's four learning styles, Jung's personality types, as well as Bogen's left mode and right mode of brain processing preferences. An important implication of this model is that learning retention is…

An integrated learning strategy program emphasizing a connection technique employing questions and answers was developed and tested. Components were derived from a review of educational and psychological literature and from an analysis of responses to a learning-strategy inventory. Visual imagery and paraphrasing connection also were evaluated.…

The relative effectiveness of including behavioral objectives, classified according to the major levels of cognition, in independent study materials for high school juniors is analyzed in this brief summary of the author's dissertation. The three major questions under consideration are whether: (1) the use of behavioral objectives has an effect…

A study was undertaken to assess the efficacy of the spaced lecture as a possible alternative to the traditional lecture method. The spaced lecture separates note-taking from intensive listening. Two hundred male and female freshman and sophomore students at a junior college in Georgia in fall 1978, in intact classes, were administered three main…