The method of scoring is used to obtain maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters in White and Clark's (EJ 075 122) learning hierarchy validation model. From the proportion of the population possessing only the superordinate skill in a pair of hierarchical skills, and its variance, the hypothesis of inclusion is tested. (Author/CTM)

Seven forms of a programmed booklet based on an eleven-level hierarchy for addition of fractions were developed. One hundred forty-two fourth graders were randomly assigned to treatments; achievement, transfer, retention, and time were compared. No treatment was consistently superior, but developing sequences from hierarchies validated by test…

Describes a study that attempted to establish whether or not a hierarchy exists among selected reading skills, to establish the direction and strength of such a relationship, and to compare empirical methodologies for establishing hierarchical relationships. (MKM)

This document discusses how the organization of instruction influences the encoding and structuring of new material in the memory and the subsequent transfer of such information to novel situations. A theory of instruction for problem solving that considers relevant cognitive variables and that specifies the conditions for productive learning is…

Subjects read a textual passage encompassing hierarchically related topics. A structural outline presented in advance of reading the text facilitated reproductive recall of facts. The recall of specific facts was superior to that of general facts, implying an experimental demand to be precise in learning and recalling specific factual material.…

Some of the procedures for developing and validating learning sequences or learning hierarchies are explored. For each of these procedures, references are provided that can be used for additional study or clarification of the procedures. (Author)

The effects of teacher behaviors comprising lesson organization on student achievement were investigated in undergraduate students. Two instructional conditions were proper versus manipulated sequence and explicit organization behaviors present versus absent. Explicit organization had a significant effect on achievement. No significant…

In the first of three studies, separately reported, the effects of prompting and sequencing on a science concept task were studied with college students. The data analysis showed that the prompting procedure was significantly different from a no-prompting condition; prompting seemed to negate the affect of the defined concept instructional…

Mastery learning techniques were improved through mathematics instruction based on a validated learning hierarchy, presenting tasks in a sequence consistent with the requirements of the hierarchy, and requiring learners to demonstrate achievement before being allowed to proceed. (Author/GDC)

The present exclusive and pervasive interest in the internal validity of learning hierarchy experiments and four methods for generating candidates for learning hierarchies are reviewed. The author poses questions about the external validity of learning hierarchy research--whether for instance, any instructional sequence might equal one suggested…

An instructional program based on a learning hierarchy and involving the addition of fractions was presented to fourth grade students in a pretest - posttest design. The results of the tests were analyzed using both Walbesser's and White's techniques for validation. There was sufficient disagreement in the results to prevent a conclusion of…

This paper reviews methods which have been used to identify and validate learning hierarchies. Specifically, three methods which reflect the notion of a relatively inviolate sequence are discussed and compared. Two of the psychometric methods compare pairs of skills, the ordering-theoretic method (Bart and Krus) and the test of inclusion (White…