Discusses theories of the transfer of teaching based on the theory of common elements and the cognitive theory of elements and mechanisms. Highlights include inferential reasoning; mental models; memory and comprehension; and future directions, including theory development, metrics of transfer distance, psychological and educational research, and…

Explores various issues related to empirical validation of computer documentation. Topics discussed include developing validation test items; selecting test users; costs; benefits of testing for the writer; the role of the writer and editors; conducting the validation test; and writing revision specifications. (LRW)

Discusses the use of technology-based learning materials in open and distance learning approaches for adult education and training. Highlights include conceptions of the purposes of education; concepts of learning; fundamental values and attitudes of society; an the interrelationship of technology-based materials and educational support systems.…

Presented are the results of an analysis of the cognitive stages of tenth-grade pupils using a six-week unit on the respiratory system. The research design, instruments, and data analysis are discussed. A variety of cognitive levels was found and may be related to learning outcomes. (CW)

Discusses the benefits of individualizing inquiry for students. Describes using this method in the social studies classroom in step by step guidelines. Offers an illustration of its successful application. Notes factors to be considered before teachers commit to this instructional method. (KO)

Discusses the effectiveness of the use of simulations and games as alternative approaches to learning. Criteria for evaluating games and simulations for use in the classroom are given, and steps involved in the design of simulations and nonsimulation games are described. (LRW)

Discusses the use of mapping to help learning disabled students unlock the historical narrative in their history textbooks. Presents one way to map the narrative structure or grammar of a history text, including suggestions on how to effectively model and motivate students. (GEA)

Discusses the distinctions between formative and summative evaluation as they apply to instructional products (materials) and people (learners). Various terms for these four types of evaluation are mentioned, and their characteristics are described through examples from both educational and corporate instructional settings. (11 references)…

Discusses motivation based on adult learning conditions, and suggests appropriate motivation plans for leaders and trainers that will enhance performance. The steps to develop motivation plans include assessing current thinking on motivation and reinforcement options; objectively describing expected behaviors; and developing motivational…

Examines the information handling ability of the personal computer. Shows how the personal computer can link three learning techniques into a coherent learning strategy appropriate for undergraduate college students. Argues that the personal computer is a powerful tool that can make students' efforts more productive. (RS)

Outlined are the weaknesses of traditional, norm-referenced tests which fail to help in making instructional decisions. Presented is a step-by-step series of operations for analyzing and categorizing arithmetic errors, for selecting corrective strategies, and for applying peer-referenced standards to judge the performance of special needs…

Describes an instructional technique called "creative graphing" in which students learn to reorder information visually, to interpret the graphic aids of their textbooks more easily, to highlight relationships that are not immediately apparent in the text, and to illuminate ideas for further exploration using charts, trees, stars,…

Examines ways in which intelligent tutoring systems can be used to develop models of a student's domain knowledge, problem solving abilities, and learning strategies. Cognitive skills assessment is discussed, and an example of a problem based tutoring system, Qualitative Understanding of Electrical System Troubleshooting (QUEST), is explained. (25…

Documents and analyzes the work of two computer-based art projects in Singapore where primary school children were involved in art production using a computer. Topics addressed include computer-based art learning; implications for art teaching and learning; technological issues; and aesthetic aspects. Examples of the art work are included. (three…

Four experiments investigated children's ability to notice and remember events in which the acquisition of factual information occurs. Results indicated that children tend to report they have known newly learned information for a long time, suggesting that children have some understanding of knowledge acquisition, but not at the level of adults.…