Self-instruction, more likely applied to adult learners, depended on the extent to which learners more or less consciously make decisions about aspects of the learning situation and control them. Issues of control are discussed and examples of relevant learning situations are offered, including group work and computer-assisted learning. (16…

The Internet has enormous potential as a tool for self-directed learning. However it may be subject to control of those with vested interests, learning materials are scarce, bandwidth is still limited, inequities of access persist, and much remains to be learned about online teaching and learning. (SK)

Provides suggestions and examples for self-training on use of the Web. Focuses on three questions about guidance, motivation and Web training: (1) "Is this class right for me?"; (2) "Now that I'm here, what do I do?"; (3) "What motivates me now and keeps me coming back later?" (AEF)

Presents advice on how to promote student self-learning. Finds that it can be achieved by using specially prepared didactic material, specific recommendations for intellectual work, and general techniques of self-education in independent student work. (Author/CCM)

Comparison of 35 nurses in a traditional continuing-education workshop with 28 using a self-instructional videotape-learning package showed that both groups improved scores. Initial costs for the self-instruction package were higher, but it could prove more economical in the long run, saving participants time and money. (SK)

Describes how the use of problem-based learning as an instructional methodology in undergraduate nursing curricula has been identified as one way to facilitate development of nursing students' abilities to become self-directed in learning. Discusses the theoretical links between problem-based learning and self-directed learning. (EV)

Explores one of the least studied areas of self-directed language learning: The attitudes of the language teachers who work as counselors for self-directed language learners. Within an attitudinal construct, analyzes four different factors (students, past, colleagues, and self) that account for the attitudes that the teacher has towards…

Challenges the notion that excellence requires higher education by analyzing the approaches to learning of self-educated people in a variety of fields ("farm-gate intellectuals"). Considers how they fit into the anarchist-utopian tradition in adult education and how universities and adult educators can benefit from understanding their…

Applies the concept of classroom community to asynchronous learning networks by considering how to design and implement a course that fosters community among learners who are physically separated from each other. Examines student-instructor ratio, transactional distance, social presence and instructor immediacy, lurking, social equity,…

Describes a senior seminar as a capstone writing-intensive course with the purpose of introducing students to independent mathematical study. Discusses changes in the seminar over time that reflect changes in program emphasis and the interests of both faculty and students. (Author/MM)

Tests a three-day course model for medical school faculty (n=58) designed to promote self-directed learning, teaching skills, personal awareness, and interdisciplinary collegiality. Concludes that the faculty development program created a safe, learner-centered environment for participants that promoted both awareness of and commitment to…

The effects of feedback on the acquisition and retention of mathematical fact series by elementary school students classified with mild mental retardation was examined in 4 studies. Immediate feedback was provided by either an educator or the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique (IF AT), at the end of a test series by a review of correct…

We present the design of a new 3D animation tool for self-teaching (signing and reading) finger spelling the first basic component in learning any sign language. We have designed a highly realistic hand with natural animation of the finger motions. Smoothness of motion (in real time) is achieved via programmable blending of animation segments. The…

In two experiments we explored how learning from traditional molar worked-out examples--focusing on problem categories and their associated overall solution procedures--as well as from more efficient modular worked-out examples--where intrinsic cognitive load is reduced by breaking down complex solutions into smaller meaningful solution…

In this commentary, Corno discusses Vollmeyer and Rheinberg's evidence from the perspective of related work in educational psychology. Relevant new terms provide background for understanding connections between the language used by Vollmeyer and Rheinberg and that of educational psychologists. The author uses results from research on teaching for…