Describes how instructional designers can use a combination of job task/function analysis and job competence assessment to construct a performance profile for managers that identifies characteristics of a successful performer. An ideal role micro approach is explained, and the design of training programs based on the performance profile is…

Discussion of the role of a visual designer in media programing highlights the relationship between content, design, and technical aspects. Collaborative effort between the content expert, the instructional developer, and the technical staff is described, the role of style is discussed, and the function of communication is emphasized. (LRW)

Describes how trainers can promote trainee flexibility and increase the effectiveness of their instruction by using skill related, principle based rules. Highlights include skill performance variables; analyzing skills to derive principles; converting principles into rules; and how to integrate principle based rules into skill instruction. (LRW)

Discussion of the use of two-way interactive television for distance learning at East Carolina University (North Carolina) focuses on a graduate reading course. Instructional design guidelines are described, including proper use of technology by faculty and students, involving learners at both sites, site facilitators, and increasing interaction.…

Reviews research on how geographic maps influence the recall of associated text and describes a theoretical model of map-text learning based on dual-coding theory and working memory operations. Instructional implications are explained, and recommendations for instructional applications are given. (Contains 84 references.) (LRW)

Offers comments on articles in this special issue relating to critical theory, deconstruction, and postmodernism as they affect educational technology. Topics discussed include the modernist, positivist approach to educational technology; systems theory and instructional design; evaluating media for stereotypes; and mastery learning. (LRW)

A theory of motor skill performance in dentistry is presented, and studies of its use in improving preclinical laboratory instruction are reviewed. The model explains how the mind directs the hand so specific outcomes can be achieved, a theory which can be operationalized in instructional design. (MSE)

Examines the relationship between instructional design (ID) activities and perceived project success. Analysis was based on interviews with 40 practicing instructional designers involved in 77 ID projects. Results indicate that designers don't implement all the ID activities prescribed by traditional models and that certain activities are…

Surveyed 45 Japanese corporations to determine common training methods and use of systematic design and development processes. Results indicate that overall there was more internal classroom training than on-the-job training and that only two of the companies had a formal, systematic approach to instruction design and development. (JMV)

Describes FERRET, an expert system that was developed to help identify teaching strategies for students with learning disabilities. Expert systems are explained; applications of FERRET are discussed, including classroom help and teacher education; and the present and future potential of FERRET is considered. (LRW)

In the third of a series of articles on teaching psychomotor skills in dental education, the design of instructional materials is discussed. Steps include identifying appropriate teaching strategies for the tasks; organizing and sequencing subskills; identifying and collecting common errors; and drafting learning exercises for each subskill. (MSE)

Investigation and study of the mutualities among andragogy, interactive courseware, and distance education will benefit educators in providing adult learners with the most effective education; knowledge gained will ensure that instruction is consistent with the principles of andragogy and capitalizes on the merits of courseware. (AEF)

Activities designed to acquaint students with the library media center are listed: find examples of fractions; estimate the total number of books; find information on a topic; pick favorite leads; locate the most and least popular books; find animal heroes; discover answers to questions; redesign the library; select a book for a secret partner;…

This article offers a systematic approach to teaching basic academic skills to children with attention deficit disorders. The acronym T-G-I-F is used to focus on teacher-directed instruction; guided practice instruction; independent practice activities; and final measurement. Questions and answers about this approach and sample record-keeping…

Implementation of a career education program in Greek schools was hindered by the following: (1) an overambitious goal of developing personality for working life; (2) lack of technology; (3) content of teachers' guides; (4) attitudes that career education was a pseudosubject, add-on, or "play time"; and (5) inadequate teacher training.…