This handbook has been guiding writers through the writing process for many years, helping them every step of the way, from getting ideas to getting published. In 110 chapters, the revised and updated 1996 edition presents the practical side of how to write and sell novels, short stories, articles, nonfiction books, poetry, and drama. The 3,000…

This study sought to determine if self-directed learning (SDL) experiences produced higher levels of academic achievement than traditional, teacher-directed learning experiences. Out of a group of 720 first-year students at the United Arab Emirates University, instructors identified 86 SDL students who completed all homework assignments, did extra…

This self-instructional curriculum module was developed to assist with early childhood special education program planning, by providing references to curricula and textbooks, curriculum guides, journal articles, videos, and demonstration model materials appropriate for self-instruction. The module is designed to help individuals locate information…

This document contains four papers from a symposium on self-directed workplace learning. "Self-Directed Work Teams: Implementation and Performance" (Marcel van der Klink, Hilde ter Horst) discusses the results of a study examining the implementation and effects of self-directed work teams in a land register office and the role of the…

Students in Texas who seek to advance their proficiency in vocal or instrumental performance may participate in the Applied Music (Individual Study) Program. Enrollment in the courses of this program and the establishment of time parameters are determined by contracts between students and schools. The first part of this guide discusses the…

Reading professional literature may be undertaken without a large investment of time or money, yet it still provides a way to increase one's professional knowledge and maintain competencies. To be successful in one's reading, the adult education practitioner needs to consider three aspects of a professional reading program: finding the time,…

A study examined the effectiveness of group and self-directed interventions for developing stress-coping resources among students in three associate degree nursing programs. The 46 students in the modified curriculum group received instruction in two stress-monitoring techniques and three tension control exercises. The second group (n = 61)…

This paper discusses the development and use of student self-study centers in language programs, focusing on the experiences of a language teacher in developing such a center at Cultura Inglesia in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Self-study centers may be defined as a set of facilities aimed at providing students with the opportunity of learning…

The materials contained in this document are intended for use in a training session for adult educators. The document is designed with the following objectives in mind: inspire adult educators to increase their knowledge of critical thinking in distance education, stimulate participants to foster critical thinking in adult learners, and provide…

Distance education may be considered in two ways: (1) as a substitute for conventional, face-to-face education; and (2) as a mode of education in its own right. Those who view distance education the first way treat students as members of a class and include a fixed schedule of classes, assignments, and course duration. Those viewing distance…

A study evaluated preparatory methods of developing competence to become certified as an Iowa Fire Fighter I. Hypotheses were that no significant differences in written examination scores would be found when comparing structured learning with self-study preparation or when comparing candidate gender; a significant difference would be found in…

These language testing guidelines--grouped according to the five categories of the oral language interview: grammar, comprehension, pronunciation, vocabulary, and language utilization (communicative competence)--are presented for the language proficiency examiner. Brief guidelines for assessment are given for each of five levels of proficiency,…

Test wiseness programs and computer assisted study skills instruction (CASSI) were found to be valuable resources for college reading and study skills instructors and students at St. Cloud State University (Minnesota). Two booklets on test wiseness cues were reorganized and used as computer programs to allow the information to be presented outside…

A study of the learning orientation of 220 female registered nurses concluded that there was still a need to determine more accurately the utility of learning orientations as predictors of participation in different types of learning activities. (Author/BP)

A summary of curricular innovations (career education, experiential education, competency-based education, interdisciplinary courses, independent study, calendar change) with discussion of reasons for resistance (poor quality, intellectual work involved, lack of concept of "curriculum"). (JT)