Learner autonomy has become a central concern in the recent history of language learning. Self-Access Centres (SACs) play a critical role in fostering learner autonomy specifically in EFL (English as a Foreign Language) settings. As SACs aim at enabling learning to occur independent of teaching, in these centres, language learners are given more…

The Language Centre at the University of Padova provides language courses for students of all disciplines and with a wide range of needs. Over the years, the number of students having to deal with a language requirement has increased exponentially, while the teaching personnel and general resources have struggled to keep up. Catering to all of the…

A discussion of a model depicting three stages of change in education: 1) formal schooling rigidly organized on the basis of class teaching; 2) flexible small group teaching; and 3) independent study with the teacher's role shifted more to the background and not the sole dispenser of information. (HB)

An elementary school librarian shows why human beings of all ages experience intellectual growth most effectively through learner-centered modes of study. (Author)

Describes empirical research in the fields of neurology and cognitive science that is being conducted to determine how and why the brain learns. Explains ways that video is compatible with how the brain learns and suggests it should be used more extensively by teachers and library media specialists. (LRW)

The final report of 3 years activity in the Area Learning Center of Kent Intermediate School District in Michigan presents its proposed design and objectives, operations, statistics on referrals, and an overall evaluation of its programs. Included are discussions of interdisciplinary approaches to educational diagnosis, prescriptive educational…

The media center could and should be an impressive resource tool in providing information and surrogate experiences for use by the student in forming his tastes, attitudes and values. (Author/NH)

The Learning Research and Development Center, an institute composed of faculty from the University of Pittsburgh, has as its general purpose the scientific study of the problems of learning and instruction. Particular attention is given to the nature of the educational and psychological environment required to maximize the potential of the…

Describes efforts by the AASL (American Association of School Librarians) to develop a professional community for library media specialists through ALA (American Library Association) Annual Conference programs and the construction of an AASL Web site devoted to issues and topics related to effective teaching and learning behaviors. (Author/LRW)

Describes five models for instructional design, including the ASSURE Model (analyze learners, state objectives, select methods, media and materials, utilize media and materials, require learner participation, and evaluate); the Learning Cycle; Instructional Analysis Model; Integrated Model for Teaching Library Skills; and Instructional…

Presents the process of learning from information as the key concept for the library media center in the information age school. The Information Search Process Approach is described as a model for developing information skills fundamental to information literacy, and process learning is discussed. (Author/LRW)

Examines quality in school library media programs in relation to the quality of education offered in the schools. School reform efforts that have evolved to a focus on learning are discussed; roles of the school library media specialist are described; and implications of centering the library on learning are considered. (LRW)

One prime consideration in facilities design is physical environment. Author contends that an equal consideration must be the type of instruction that is to take place. Unless the two considerations are integrated, the resulting structure will fall far short of its ultimate potential. (Author)

Argues that the school library media specialist's instructional consultation role can optimize the impact of information skills, and proposes that the choice of the information skills be dictated by (1) the cognitive requirements of the lesson; (2) the teacher's instructional design decisions; and (3) the learning characteristics of the students.…

Discussion of how school library media specialists can fulfill the mission stated in "Information Power: Guidelines for School Library Media Programs" focuses on responsiveness to the concerns of school administrators. Topics addressed include impacts on student learning; learner outcomes and performance objectives; measures of…