Content analysis of connected instructional discourse depends on the fundamental distinction between the content to be learned ("intrinsic") and the content intended only to support the learning processes ("mathemagenic"). Depending on the expected outcome of learning and the learner's entering competencies, the nature and…

This review of the facilities and programs that are devoted to computerized instruction at the University of Akron provides brief descriptions of the history of the Computer Assisted Instruction Center, the development of a CAI course in mathematics, directions for future development, and problems in communication between mathematics instructors…

Prompted by the concern of Extension faculty involved in providing leadership for 4-H programs that the literature being provided is not used to an extent expected/intended--to an extent that would justify costs involved, a two-phased study was conducted. One phase examined Wisconsin 4-H literature against a framework of what constitutes adequate…

Illustrates the frustrating search for the best way to teach college chemistry, by pointing out that there are problems associated with any type of curriculum, teaching technique, or grading method. Includes statistics on a Keller type physical chemistry course. (MLH)

This study was conducted to determine whether learner control of lesson strategy is superior to programmed control in computer-based instruction (CBI), and, if so, whether learner control is more effective when guidance is provided. Subjects were 164 trainees assigned to the Basic Electricity/Electronics School in San Diego. They were randomly…

In order to investigate the effects of sequence and synthesis in the teaching of taxonomically-related concepts, a study was conducted in which 27 students from Syracuse University were asked to examine printed instructions dealing with kinds of sailboats and then to respond to a test based on those instructions. The synthesizing structure…

Following a discussion of the general requirements for a vocabulary development program, this paper presents an instructional design for vocabulary development. The five sections of the design that are discussed include (1) vocabulary from context; (2) word structure; (3) roots, affixes, and affixation processes; (4) alternative language; and (5)…

Research on three types of visual symbols is discussed in terms of the implications of the findings for instructional developers. The research in question focused on which of three symbol stimuli--concept-related graphic, arbitrary graphic, or verbal label--would most rapidly bring a psychomotor response under control and would maintain control…

This paper describes the instructional design activities used to create ThinkAbout, a video series meant to teach fifth and sixth graders skills essential for learning, i.e., inquiring, analyzing, synthesizing, seeking alternatives, and creative problem solving. Two basic tenets or underpinning statements served as guidelines for the development…

A brief review of recent demands and trends in adult education for nontraditional students is followed by a discussion of the design and purpose of audiocassette programs offering full and transferable college credit toward a degree. The development of audio courses is traced from the Ohio School of the Air, presented on radio in 1929, to the…

This paper considers some of the problems in implementing a cost-effectiveness analysis in training and education, and provides a specific example of an analysis that partially meets the cost-effectiveness analysis requirements. A computer-based study management system (SMS), which was implemented on a limited basis, was evaluated in the context…

This paper describes the multiple evaluation techniques which can be applied to one computer-based instructional system and the ways in which the data may be used. The Navy's Computer Managed Instruction (CMI) System is used as an example to illustrate the application of various evaluation strategies for solving problems associated with delivery…

This paper describes the Computer Based Learning Lab (CBLL) at Old Dominion University (ODU) as a component of the ODU-Comprehensive Assistance to Undergraduate Science Education (CAUSE) Project. Emphasis is directed to the structure and management of the facility and to the software under development by the staff. Serving the ODU-CAUSE User Group…