Compares PLATO and non-PLATO student performance in an introductory computer programing course at the University of Illinois. Results indicate that PLATO students would recommend PLATO to friends, that the drop rate was higher for PLATO students than for non-PLATO, but that performance was equal for both groups. (RAO)

Discussion of computer-assisted testing focuses on a study of college students that investigated whether a computerized test which incorporated traditional test taking interfaces had any effect on students' performance, anxiety level, or attitudes toward the computer. Results indicate no difference in performance but a significant difference in…

To alleviate the staffing pressures of increased demands for tours and classes at the Duane G. Meyer Library, Southwest Missouri State University, two HyperCard programs were developed--a library instruction text and a library orientation tour. A study of the relative effectiveness of the HyperCard text with paper texts for bibliographic…

Summarizes a study of subject-initiated interaction and instructor-facilitated instruction to determine which mode would result in the greatest amount of interaction during interactive televised instruction. Interaction frequency was measured and a questionnaire soliciting subject attitudes toward televised instruction was administered. (Contains…

Two experiments explored the integration of animated agents into multimedia environments in the context of R. E. Mayer's (2001) cognitive theory of multimedia learning. The spoken-narration-only condition outperformed other conditions, with no differences between printed text and printed text with spoken narration. (Author)

Describes a two-part study involving 14- to 15-year-old high school students in New South Wales (Australia) that compared two modes of responding to free response examination questions: by computer and by pen and paper. Discusses results of analysis of variance. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study conducted at the University of Nevada at Reno that compared final grades received by on-campus students and those completing interactive televised distance learning (ITDL) courses at remote sites. Results showed off-campus ITDL students had higher grades and suggests further research is needed to determine why. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study conducted at the University of Nebraska at Omaha that used questionnaires and interviews to compare and contrast the interaction that occurred in distance learning courses offered via two-way, fully interactive audio-video classrooms and online instruction through the Internet or World Wide Web. (Author/LRW)

Traditional forms of teaching and learning based on textual forms of representation and rational thought may limit how we perceive our world. Artistic forms of expression and their implications for adult education are discussed.

This paper considers the influence of e-tuition using an asynchronous written conferencing package, "FirstClass," upon retention and success rates for Masters-level courses in a distance learning programme as compared with similar courses that were supported in a traditional manner using face-to-face tuition. The paper investigates the common…

Inquiry-based science instruction can provide a rich context in which to build literacy skills in the elementary grades. The authors discuss the benefits of incorporating reading, writing, and speaking into science instruction. They describe the results of research on two models for combining language arts and science--the Science IDEAS model and…

A survey was conducted of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students in an accounting class at a university in the Northern United States to compare students' assessments of course effectiveness and overall satisfaction with the course. One group of students were enrolled in a traditional in-class section, and another group in a…

The study evaluated the comparability of two versions of a certification test: a paper-and-pencil test (PPT) and computer-based test (CBT). An effect size measure known as Cohen's d and differential item functioning (DIF) analyses were used as measures of comparability at the test and item levels, respectively. Results indicated that the effect…

Teaching GIS is relatively simple, a matter of helping students develop familiarity with the software. Mapping as an aid to thinking is harder to instruct. This article presents a laboratory and lecture package developed to teach the utility of mapping in a course on spatial data analysis. Following a historical review of the use of surface…

The major advantage of STS is the kind of teaching it allows and demands. Twelve middle school teachers who were enthused with STS teaching selected two sections for a research study. One section was the experimental STS section; the other followed the course syllabus and textbook closely. The major findings indicate the advantages for STS as a…