This paper describes the elements that most clearly identify and are most critical to a mastery learning program. Ways in which teachers can easily and efficiently implement these elements in their teaching and practices are outlined, along with procedures for evaluating their effectiveness in improving student learning. A discussion is presented…

Compares two learning strategies, cooperative learning and mastery learning, and indicates ways in which the two are natural complements to each other. Discusses four premises shared by the approaches and considers ways in which each approach helps solve implementation problems associated with the other. Research on the combined implementation of…

This paper describes the basic elements of Mastery Learning, as outlined by Benjamin S. Bloom, and Mastery Teaching, as outlined by Madeline C. Hunter. It shows that while these two instructional approaches are clearly distinct, they can actually serve as complements to one another. In addition, each can bring added strength to the other such that…

The overall effects of cues, participation, and corrective feedback on classroom learning are estimated. The constancy of effects of these instructional qualities were explored across characteristics of students, and educational and contextual conditions. The results confirm the Dollard-Miller-Carroll-Bloom theory that has evolved during the past…

In this interview with Executive Editor Ron Brandt, Bloom answers criticisms of mastery learning and explains why he believes it is so important. (Author/JM)

In this second section of a two-part interview, Benjamin Bloom discusses practical aspects of implementing mastery learning in the classroom and presents some evidence on its motivational effects. For part one of this interview, see EJ 224 682. (SJL)

Significantly higher posttest achievement scores and more favorable unit evaluations were achieved in a secondary social studies unit using a feedback-corrective strategy with a manageable degree of specificity. This supports previous research that suggests the strategy is possible within a social studies area. (SB)

This annotated bibliography on mastery learning, intended for use by teachers, administrators, curriculum-planners, and researchers, covers writings and reports on the following topics: (1) research reports; (2) use of mastery learning concepts and strategies; (3) task skills analysis; (4) sequential learning; (5) learning hierarchies; (6) task…

The Time for Mastery Program was specifically designed to minimize the time costs of mastery learning by maximizing the use of instructional time to the fullest advantage. The program was implemented by three high school districts in suburban Chicago during the 1984-85 academic year. This article presents a brief description of the program, as…

By insisting that a student master a skill before progressing to a more complex task, a teacher can help that student build a firm foundation for further learning experiences. (JD)

This study found that special education teachers (n=18) effectively integrated two feedback routines into their teaching: a teacher-delivered elaborated feedback routine and an elaborated feedback plus student-acceptance routine. The routines were equally powerful in reducing the number of trials to mastery for students with learning disabilities.…

This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of a group-based, teacher-paced model of mastery learning for instruction in undergraduate education courses. It was hypothesized that the mastery-taught students, who were provided formative tests and corrective activities, would achieve higher scores on the final examination and higher grades…

This study examined the effects of mastery learning on college students' achievement in a nonsequential course in curriculum and instruction. Students participated in either classes with conventional teaching, enhanced cognitive entry behavior plus conventional teaching, or feedback/corrective procedures plus the other methods. Using a combination…

Two staff members working in different preschools received training in the form of instructions, modeling, immediate feedback, and social reinforcement of good performance. Effects of training were assessed with a multiple baseline ABCDCDCD design. Correct use of basic behavioral teaching techniques increased from 16-31% to 92-95% and the rate of…

A study was undertaken to evaluate how a mastery approach to teaching history on the high school level influenced student achievement and attitudes. Mastery learning is interpreted to include assumptions regarding student learning capability as well as specified curricular/instructional/evaluative procedures. Essential to mastery learning strategy…