Argues that television has unique educational characteristics that separate it from other media and have implications for teaching and learning. Discussion of distributional and social, control, and symbolic (audiovisual) characteristics is based on published surveys and on research carried out at the Open University. Thirteen references are…

This assessment of the effectiveness of using simulation, dial-up access to established bibliographic networks, and a dedicated CRT terminal for training library school students as online catalogers found that two modes of training are required: development of original cataloging skills, and development of computer interactive facility. Fourteen…

Describes a study in which two media presentations, tape-slide and film, were evaluated in order to determine their relative cost-effectiveness when used as automated teaching aids for the mentally handicapped. Sixteen references are listed. (Author)

Discusses digital books, or electronic books, and their relationship to libraries and communication between authors and readers. Topics include the scholarly market, for academic libraries, versus the consumer market; textbooks versus novels; digitization of older books; marketing; costs; and electronic books versus printed books. (LRW)

Describes a meta-analysis that indicated a slight student preference for a traditional educational format over a distance education format in higher education, and little difference in satisfaction levels, even when considering presence and type of interaction. Discusses meta-analysis as a method for synthesizing literature. (Contains 53…

Describes a pilot study that compared three course formats in an undergraduate course: traditional format, Web-based section, and a hybrid that mixed traditional and Web-based methods. Discusses student performance, student satisfaction, instructor experiences; and implications and recommendations for Web-based courses. (LRW)

In Lapland, a project investigated the effectiveness of multiform teaching (classroom instruction, distance teaching, various media, and linking of instruction to working life) to train data processing experts. Evaluation showed the necessity of adequate facilities and equipment, the importance of phone contact, and the need for teachers to be…

Discusses research on the effectiveness of computer-based instruction (CBI) and proposes computer modeling as a tool to redirect CBI research toward more theoretically relevant and prescriptive research. Limitations of media comparison studies and media replication studies are described, and computer modeling in CBI research is reviewed. (48…

A study of employed undergraduate management students was conducted to determine whether responses on computerized surveys are more candid than those on paper-and-pencil scales. Subjects were given either a paper-and-pencil or a computer version of the Job Descriptive Index (JDI) and the Self-Monitoring Scale to measure job satisfaction. (43…

This study analyzed the fingerspelling of 25 teachers using Signing Exact English (SEE) 1 or 2, and 25 teachers using Manual/Signed English or Pidgin Signed English with their hearing-impaired students. Intergroup differences were not significant. Teachers used fingerspelling primarily to introduce novel words, spell short words, and spell proper…

Discusses the use of computer administered testing by The American College. Student performance on computer administered versus paper-and-pencil tests is examined, student attitudes about exams are described, the effects of time limits on computerized testing are considered, and offline versus online testing is discussed. (31 references) (LRW)

Discusses how to design effective learning environments for continuing education that maximize learning, transfer of training, and motivation. Focuses on the process of changing traditional continuing education from lecture-based, on-site instruction to Web-based instruction and considers challenges of distance education. (Author/LRW)

This study compared the implementation of a person-centered model of instruction to non person-centered instruction in Web-based courses. Three questions were posed regarding the outcomes of the person-centered model of instruction: Is it possible to increase the self actualization, or striving for individual achievement from learners in a…

Distance education has become an expectation with students who have grown up with technology as well as nontraditional and working students. Most universities now offer a wide range of online courses and degree programs to meet these needs. Online delivery of technology courses, however, has been problematic when the course includes very complex…

Many research studies on the effect of organizational factors on training transfer have been conducted, but few studies have considered the effect that different training delivery methods have on training transfer. This study sought to identify if there is any difference in the perceived transfer of training between traditional classroom…