Presents the results of a two-page survey asking introductory psychology instructors to rate the effectiveness of 22 teaching techniques that focus on improving student performance. Finds that in-class examples/activities, writing assignments, emphasis on core concepts in lectures and examinations, and providing a copy of the lecture outline were…

Describes the results of a controlled experiment that tested the effectiveness of Lord's teaching model in: (a) helping students achieve better grades on standard midterm exams; (b) developing higher level thinking skills; and (c) modifying attitudes towards biology at a large urban university. (Author/SOE)

Maintains that the lecture method in history can still function as an effective means of instruction if approached with a critical perspective. Outlines creative and engaging approaches for the history lecture and specific suggestions for organization, delivery, and content coverage. (MJP)

Compares two delivery methods for a course in genetics and evolution: (1) studio teaching involving teamwork by students, hands-on exercises, and minimal lecturing; and (2) an interactive lecture demonstration method. Uses pre- and post-testing of basic concepts to evaluate the effectiveness of each method. Suggests that studio techniques are a…

Two studies were conducted to design and field-test hypertext computer study guides with 40 ninth grade students (10 with learning disabilities, 15 remedial, and 15 regular education). Findings indicated the computer study guide treatment was as effective as the lecture method; posttest scores and retention test scores were higher for the computer…

Discusses the role of the historian and the purposes of history teaching. Stresses teaching methods and outlines six ways to enhance instruction for beginning teachers. Analyzes curriculum and raises objections to the concept of a core curriculum and emphasizes the importance of studying history. (RW)

A study compared the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction and direct instruction in promoting simple number estimation skills in a group of eight children with moderate learning problems. Results showed that both approaches are associated with direct and transfer gains durable over four weeks. (MSE)

At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (NY), some introductory science and engineering classes are taught in "studios," where students work on problems on computers, followed by a mini-lecture or summary and class discussion. The method replaces impersonal large-group lectures with less expensive, more effective instruction and more…

A study involving 14 experienced physicians investigated the effectiveness of a computer program (providing statistical feedback to teach a clinical diagnostic rule that predicts the probability of streptococcal pharyngitis), in conjunction with traditional lecture and periodic disease-prevalence reports. Results suggest the integrated method is a…

Discusses an analysis of 10 common introductory psychology textbooks. Argues that the books tend to present psychology as tedious, even silly, and as a canned, multimedia, self-teaching program. Concludes that replacing textbooks with lectures based on the instructor's personal knowledge and experience would improve the teaching of psychology. (SG)

The crisis confronting calculus and mathematics education generally results from a number of failed assumptions implicit in the dominant lecture-homework-exam methodology used in teaching mathematics. Positive resolution of this crisis can be found in adopting a noncompetitive, collaborative approach to mathematics education. (Author)

Reports a study that developed a strategy to help students comprehend and remember the content of training presentations. The study examined the effects of self-questioning and reciprocal peer-questioning strategies on preservice teachers' learning of orally-presented material and on their verbal interaction. Results suggest that this strategy…

Respondents in a sample of 131 British students in adult continuing education revealed conservative preferences for teaching methods (e.g., lecture), influenced by educational experiences in and out of school. Time constraints made them want to use time most efficiently, and they did not see the value of experiential, innovative methods. (SK)

Discusses the learning experience from both traditional and computer-assisted instructional methods. Describes the environments in which these methods are effective. Focuses on learning experiences in medical education and describes educational strategies, particularly the 'SPICES' model. Discusses the importance of mentoring in the psychosocial…

This study compares the use of form and function analogy object boxes to more traditional lecture and worksheet instruction during a 10th-grade unit on human body systems. The study was conducted with two classes (N = 32) of mixed ability students at a high-needs rural high school in central New York State. The study used a pretest/posttest…