Meta-analytic techniques tested the effect on learning of the interaction of prior achievement with instructional support. This review of nine studies indicates that differences in prior achievement levels can be reduced through instructional treatment. Results support the use of meta-analyses for other investigations of aptitude-treatment…

Examines the contributions of free play, the role of the teacher in planning and promoting free play, and the experiential background of children that promotes play activities. Discusses the importance of providing a variety of play materials, and lists the criteria for selecting equipment. (RS)

A discussion of the awarding of college credit for experiential or prior learning looks at two approaches (credit exchange and developmental), proposes a continuum linking them, and examines theoretical and practical problems in their application in higher education. It is concluded that while credits for prior/experiential learning can be…

Describes an algorithm for computer generation of hierarchical indexes for document collections. The resulting index, when presented with a graphical interface, provides users with a view of a document collection that permits general browsing and informal search activities via an access method that requires no keyboard entry or prior knowledge of…

Describes a study of undergraduates that was conducted to determine students' preferences toward Graphical User Interface versus Command Line Interface during computer-assisted instruction. Previous experience, comfort level, performance scores, and student attitudes are examined and compared, and the computer use survey is appended. (Contains 13…

Investigated the relationships between (n=220) students' approaches to studying, prior knowledge, logical thinking, and gender and their performance in a nonmajors' college freshman chemistry course. Found that prior knowledge was the best predictor of achievement, followed by formal reasoning ability. (22 references) (Author/MKR)

Responds to the common assumption among English teachers that prior knowledge of a subject enhances students' ability to comprehend materials that they read. Presents evidence from the think-aloud protocols of undergraduate students to argue that having prior experience of the subjects treated in texts does not ensure that students will make…

Reports on the effects of tempo direction, listening mode, and level of musical experience on speed and accuracy in tempo change among 160 music majors and nonmajors. Finds that music majors more accurately detected tempo changes than did nonmajors. (CFR)

Describes 11 learning strategies, most of which are based on an information processing theory of learning, that can be used to develop study skills. Common elements include memory, comprehension, reading for understanding or meaning, and the incorporation of new knowledge into prior learning. (nine references) (LRW)

Summarizes research findings that suggest that school superintendents support the need for professional teacher-librarians (TLs). Highlights include the influence of the TL and the resource center on teaching; teaching background and experience of the TL; expectations for media centers; superintendents' and TLs' perceptions of library practices;…

Discusses the frequent misconception displayed by students that chromosome structure is a function of chromosome number or ploidy. Provides detailed analyses of the evidence concerning the prevalence of this ploidy/structure misconception among students of introductory genetics and the potential sources for inaccurate communication that it can…

A University of Limburg (Netherlands) study investigated influence of health sciences tutors' subject-matter expertise on the achievement of 1,800 students participating in tutorial groups with leaders having varying levels of subject expertise. Results indicated a positive influence of tutor subject expertise, particularly in interaction with…

Reports a study that examined the effects of conceptual orienting questions and differences in prior knowledge on factual learning and problem solving in biology. Tenth graders who participated in control or orienting questions groups completed posttests. Results indicated that question groups outscored the control group. (SM)

Reports an ethnographic study of two multicultural seventh grade classes to explore the role and value of graphic representation of knowledge structures in English-as-a-Second-Language student learning, based on a specific definition and categorization of knowledge structures. (28 references) (GLR)

Examines comprehension of students provided with relevant background knowledge and then tested on two versions of a text. Finds that students who read the revised text recalled significantly more material and answered more questions correctly than students who read the original text. Discusses the importance of the teacher's role in mediating…