Three main factors in textbook selection for distance education--readability, appropriateness, and availability--are examined in detail, and suggestions for adapting standardized texts to the needs of individual groups are provided. Twelve specific criteria are listed for determining the appropriateness of a text and textual factors influencing…

This paper focuses on item design considerations faced by instructional designers and evaluators when using computer videodisc delivery systems as a means of assessing learner comprehension and competencies. Media characteristics of various interactive computer/videodisc training systems are briefly discussed as well as reasons for using such…

Suggestions are offered for ensuring the effectiveness of individualized instruction and mastery learning. One or two brief ideas are presented in each of the following areas: (1) homework; (2) after-school help; (3) supplementary corrective programs; (4) parent involvement; (5) enrichment exercises; (6) supplementary materials; (7) student tutors…

This paper describes the structure and function of the SYS IV PLATO Curriculum Project's (PCP) computer-based management system and justifies the system design. A consideration of features most critical in the design of management systems provides the context for a discussion of specific SYS IV features, which include its ability to deliver any…

This is the final paper in a series of three on SYS IV, a computer-based management system developed by the PLATO Curriculum Project (PCP) which tests students, routes students to lessons, stores detailed records of online student activity, and keeps summary records of student activities. An introduction describes how the system simultaneously…

Descriptions are given of activities teachers have used successfully in individualizing instruction in the following curriculum areas: (1) art; (2) business; (3) career education; (4) environmental education; (5) foreign language; (6) health; (7) language arts; (8) library; (9) mathematics; (10) music; (11) personal finance; (12) physical…

Article provided a systems approach to individualized instruction. (Editor/RK)

Reports research predictions that education will be highly valued in the future and that students will study communication and life-coping skills with few students studying much science. (LS)

Suggests that teachers should encourage the children to interact, express themselves and do quality work in their classrooms as hedges against social problems and a mass approach to education. (ED)

Discusses the report of the California Commission for the Reform of Intermediate and Secondary Education (RISE) and the preliminary plan of the implementation committee. (IRT)

Concludes that the logical outcome of a person-oriented curriculum position leads to a re-definition of the function of the school in the society. The schools are seen to be the only potentially controllable agency for humanization left in society. (Author/AM)

Provides solutions to the problems of recording the progress of individuals and providing a comprehensive report to the parent. Poses problems on microscope projection, electronic components in junior science, and innovative science projects throughout Australia. (GS)

The article describes and illustrates the procedure for developing a job operation sheet for use in agricultural mechanics instruction; the sheet serves as an outline for a student-oriented programed type of learning device, taking the learner through the processes of accomplishing the job in a logical and efficient manner. (Author/AJ)

Some characteristics affecting learning which vary with the individual are discussed. A rationale for individualized instruction is explained, as is its implementation through use of learning activity packages. (RM)