Describes the structural characteristics of instructinal tasks and their influence on the types of control teachers exercise. Attempts to detail the relationships between task organization and leadership behavior in the classroom setting. (Author/RK)

The goal of student competence in performing and understanding physical examination earlier in their medical education seems to be working in a restructured course replacing lectures with physical diagnosis, videotapes and slide-tapes of physical findings, and with tutorial "hands-on" examining-practice sessions taught by internal medicine…

Clearly stated learning objectives, a variety of learning activities, and units small enough for students to manage well are some of the crucial requirements for instructing developmental students. The model described depicts a typical systems design applied to instruction. (Author/LBH)

This article provides an overview of the instructional design principles underlying the effective use of graphic communication devices in geography texts. The topics covered include labelling, figure-ground relationships, signs and symbols, legends and keys, and graphic integrity. Includes graphic examples. (JDH)

Describes three studies conducted at Pennsylvania State University to determine the effects on achievement and student satisfaction of various ratios of questions or highlights to text in computer assisted instruction (CAI) modules; question or highlight placement; and having questions or highlights on same or following page of target text. (MBR)

Discussion of methods that can be used to teach beginner courses in computer literacy focuses on students aged 10-12. The value of using a programing language versus using a generic software package is highlighted; Logo and Prolog are reviewed; and the use of databases is discussed. (LRW)

Argues that objectives are indispensable in planning an educative environment. Examines the "process model" which shuns curricular objectives, because they restrict children's inquiry. Proposes a method which recognizes the necessity of objectives while avoiding the restrictions on children's freedom which those restrictions often impose. (GEA)

Discusses the value of a capstone course in applied sociology as the culmination of the undergraduate sociology curriculum. Points out advantages of joint faculty-student projects for the course and presents the relative merits of two different formats: solo versus team projects. (Author/GEA)

This discussion of the design of data files for databases to be created by secondary school students uses AppleWorks software as an example. Steps needed to create and use a database are explained, the benefits of group activity are described, and other possible projects are listed. (LRW)

Describes program at Pennsylvania State University Libraries designed to inform faculty and graduate students about activities of library's fee-based search service and to explain individual subscription alternatives available to microcomputer owners for running searches. Registration form, results of pre-session and post-session questionnaires,…

Students who registered for correspondence study were studied in relation to the cognitive style of field-independence. Although results showed participation in correspondence study to be associated with the cognitive style of field-independence, no significant differences were found in persistence behavior or in student evaluations of…

The editors of School Library Media Activities Monthly discuss the debate between advocates of a strong instructional development or design role for library media specialists and advocates of strong library media skills programs. They suggest that well-planned and interesting lessons can incorporate both library media and classroom objectives. (EM)

High school students were presented lessons with either high or low structure. Structure was defined in terms of the frequency with which concepts were repeated from one sentence to the next. Students were tested for comprehension of the material covered and asked to rate lessons in terms of perceived effectiveness. (Author/DWH)

Describes adoption of microcomputer tutorial for library orientation at state-owned school of approximately 2,800 students. Highlights include advantages and disadvantages of microcomputer-assisted instruction, production of tutorial software, the program, evaluation, and revisions. Goals for library instruction and sampling of questions used to…

This overview of aesthetics and aesthetic education covers definitions and approaches to aesthetic education; discusses two notable ways educational technologists can influence aesthetics in learning situations with use of visuals and music; and lists strategies educational media producers can incorporate in productions to enhance aesthetic…