A study of the processes of curriculum and instructional development in the first-year public administration program at Melchester Polytechnic (England) drew on interviews with faculty. It is concluded that curricular and instructional change is intensely political and dependent on the organizational climate for change. (Author/MSE)

Considers three main components of self-directed learning: (1) topic knowledge; (2) procedural skills; and (3) self-monitoring. The role of computer-assisted instruction in autonomous learning is discussed, software that fosters independent problem solving is reviewed, and it is recommended that computers be incorporated in courses emphasizing…

Reviews the opportunities for and obstacles to promoting independent learning at the middle grades level. Proposes the substitution of compensatory practices that discourage self-directed learning activities, such as test review handouts, with instructional practices that support independent learning activities, such as performance feedback and…

Describes a beginning conducting course at the University of Kansas that utilizes self-instruction through the use of video programing. The course includes 12 videotaped modules presented weekly, providing students with a visual model to review their performance. Finds that students gain basic competency in terminology, transposition, and…

College faculty applying for the National Endowment for the Humanities' Summer Stipend Program for independent study and research are usually nominated by their institutions. Nomination procedures used by institutions that consistently nominate successful applicants are described, and the research administrator's role in the process is discussed.…

After participating in a 3-week individually paced precalculus or science course, 892 academically talented high school students were surveyed. Findings indicated that most students received credit or placement or both for their independent work. Placement/credit was related to Scholastic Aptitude Test scores, gender, type of school, and grade…

Examined whether the teacher-guided and student-independent practice and evaluation tasks recommended in basal teachers' manuals promote the application of two reading comprehension skills (main idea and cause-effect). Findings suggest that recommended basal tasks are not likely to promote the development of these skills. (MM)

Describes a pilot project at London Guildhall University Students Union (United Kingdom) that helps students acquire an understanding of independent learning through experiential learning facilitated by student mentors via a peer support dedicated intranet Web site. Discusses learning and study skills, technical constraints, and student…

Distance education is not a new concept; it first appeared in the 19th century in the United States and Europe as correspondence courses. Despite the wide publicity and apparent demand for current technology-driven, Internet-based distance education, it has limitations. Higher education should be aware of these and use it appropriately. (MSE)

Argues that homework, correspondence courses, and independent study were early forms of distance learning, and that emerging technologies have simply advanced the field to the development of synchronous, interactive communication and instructional systems. Maintains that it is unlikely that distance learning at the college level will totally…

Examines the differential efficacy, maintenance, and generalization effects of verbal self-instructional training on reading-disabled children. Types subjects by subculture (tribal versus nontribal) and cognitive stage (concrete versus formal operation). Finds that verbal self-instruction is effective for nontribals and children of formal…

Describes the creation of a user-friendly manual for students interested in taking Developmental Psychology as an independent-study course. Outlines the process followed by the author to create the course and manual. Discusses all components of the course: test, films, and numerous examples of student-initiated activities. Mentions student…

Discusses the future of online education for distance education on a global scale as well as for lifelong learning opportunities. Describes research conducted at the University of Southern Queensland that addressed three student models, the independent learner, interactive learner, and collaborative learner; constructivism; the expertise…

Compares the role of course objectives in relation to students' study strategies in problem-based learning (PBL). Results comprise data from three PBL programs at Linkopings University (Sweden), in physiotherapy, psychology, and computer engineering. Faculty provided course objectives to function as supportive structures and guides for students'…

Describes a study that attempts to assess the construct of self-regulated learning. Concludes that despite mediation by contextual, developmental, social and personal factors in learning, self-regulated learning is an important factor in determining academic success at the postsecondary level. Contains nine data tables and 27 references. (JDI)