This article attempts to trace the origins of competency-based training (CBT), the theory of vocational education that underpins the National Training Framework in Australia. A distinction is made between societal and theoretical origins. This paper argues that CBT has its societal origins in the United States of America during the 1950s, 60s and…

It is proposed that, contrary to traditional thinking, interdisciplinary communication can be enhanced, not limited, by specialization. A thorough understanding of common elements within any one discipline provides the bridge between disciplines. Two sets of examples of issues are examined. The first focuses on three disciplines in the social…

Using a modified case-based format, presents critiques of a hypothetical veterinary medicine teaching scenario from four different educational viewpoints: behaviorist, cognitive, social learning, and inspired teaching approaches. Discusses the importance and utility of formal educational theory in faculty development. (EV)

This article explores the conceptual and operational distinctions between effectiveness and expertise. Interviews, observation, and review of related literature suggest: (1) effectiveness and experience are necessary but not sufficient for achieving expertise; (2) expertise is specific to subject matter and context; (3) expertise can be explained…

Although the content model based on behaviorism and the process model based on humanism can both be used in training, a case study of training rural development workers in Thailand shows advantages of the process model. The model is based on similar principles to rural development and on adult learning principles. (SK)

An interview with Robert Epstein on the beliefs and writings of B. F. Skinner focuses on the school of psychological thought concerned with the observable, tangible, objective facets of behavior rather than on subjective phenomena. (JD)

The author replies to responses to her article, "The Newtonian Mechanistic Paradigm, Special Education, and Contours of Alternatives" (EC 220 916). Topics covered include the degree of objectivity versus the idea of objectivity, theory-data separation versus theory-laden data, Piagetian theory and the question of theory versus paradigm,…

The benefits of holistic thinking (as opposed to behaviorist/reductionist views) must be recognized at the curriculum policy and planning levels, not just at the innovative instructional practice level. Efforts in both the commercial and private sectors to create curricular wholeness from the "normal" fragmented, rigid curriculum are…

Replies to Trevor Maddock's philosophical critique of the authors' work. Explains authors' attempts to develop a new science of administration that incorporates values and human subjectivity and a new view of knowledge termed "naturalistic coherentism." Science is still being equated with a positivist version of empiricism. Maddock…

Briefly describes current research on learning and teaching and discusses its implications for the field of educational administration. In the United States, an important transition is now occurring as instructional psychologists increasingly turn away from behaviorist models that dominated educational thinking for three decades to develop new…

Explores implications for understanding educational decision making from a cognitive science perspective. Examines three models of mind providing the methodological framework for decision-making studies. The "absent mind" embodies the behaviorist research tradition. The "functionalist mind" underwrites traditional cognitivism…

Addresses limitations of a behavioral approach to communication. Explores the use of transformative learning theory in teaching communication. Outlines a learning map for nursing students: experiencing a disorienting dilemma, critically assessing internalized role assumptions, recognizing the social construction of practice, and exploring and…

Declining popularity of behaviorism is due to social changes, the needs of capitalism, importance of worker ownership, and management attitude changes. Alternative models include action regulation theory, critical reflectivity perspective, and working class adult education approach. (SK)

In My Fair Lady ( Lerner & Lowe, 1956), the play, the renowned linguistics professor, Henry Higgins, attempts to instruct the common flower-vendor, Eliza Doolittle, in proper English etiquette and speech. Revisit the colourful story from the perspective of a twenty-first century instructional designer. Set in the 1910s, but written in the heyday…

The escalating numbers of people identified with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders has resulted in a corresponding increase in the demand for behavior specialists who can direct and conduct applied behavior analytic interventions. There are, however, severe shortages in professionals who can deliver quality services. In this…