This paper examines a research paradigm that is particularly suited to experimentation-related computer-based instruction and integrated learning systems. The main assumption of the model is that one of the most powerful capabilities of computer-based instruction, and specifically of integrated learning systems, is the capacity to adapt…

The statute authorizing the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) calls for the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB) to set appropriate achievement levels in all areas and grades tested by the NAEP. These levels are intended to establish what students should know, not just what they do know. In 1990, the NAEP posited three…

Early results are reported for an effort to use a reasoning-based mathematics program in the primary classroom. In the preschool years, children develop knowledge about quantities of material, referred to as protoquantitative reasoning. Integrating counting with the protoquantitative schemas seems to occur as early as 4 years of age. Drawing on…

In order to take into account in a more productive, effective manner children's prior science knowledge in the development of science curricula and in the teaching of science, it is important "to know how to explore it, to know about its nature, and to consider the various ways it may, or may not be modified" (Gilbert, Osborne, and Fensham, 1982).…

Some pre-instructional misconceptions held by children can persist through scientific instruction and resist changes. Identifying these misconceptions would be beneficial for science instruction. In this preliminary study, scores on a 60-item true-false test of knowledge and misconceptions about earthquakes were compared with previous interview…

A review of the context of vocational education reform highlights historical efforts implemented through legislation requirements in 46 states within some vocational teacher education programs that are consistent with current reform recommendations. Current recommendations include the Holmes Group and the Carnegie Commission proposals for…

The efforts of the Florida Institute for Instructional Research and Practice in designing, developing, and analyzing the subject area knowledge tests of the Florida Master Teacher Program are described. A total of 13 subject area examinations was developed in 1984-85, and 5 additional tests were developed the following year. For each subject area…

Beyond the ability to exhibit good judgment and common sense while performing duties as a leader under stress and pressure, an outdoor adventure program leader should possess technical skills, human relations skills, and philosophical understanding of outdoor programming. Technical skills include knowledge of initiatives/ropes course activities,…

Noting that conceptions of the cognitive representations and processes involved in discourse comprehension and production recently have undergone an important shift in orientation, this paper points out the importance of the shift to the conception of the nature of texts, of text understanding, and of cognitive processes in knowledge creation and…

The manual for professionals working with multi-problem families was developed by Project IINTACT which provided home-based services to families with young children who were developmentally delayed or at risk of developmental delay. Three groups of high risk families were served: those in which one or more parents is mentally retarded, those…

A guide to acquiring information needed about postsecondary education outcomes is presented for campus and state-level officials. Attention is directed to: over 200 outcome measures or indicators; standard definitions of each outcome measure; data sources and procedures to acquire data for each outcome measure; and suggestions concerning the…

Skills and competencies needed for success in a four-year college program are discussed, based on an assessment of the Nevada Joint Council on College Preparation. The Council advocates that high school students take a sound course of basic academic subjects to prepare for college. The minimum courses that are recommended are as follows: 4 years…

A 3-part test measures the geography knowledge, skills, and understanding of secondary level students. Part 1, map skills and location, contains 20 questions involving the use of three maps: an imaginary sketch map, a contour map, and a political map of the world. Part 2 consists of 20 questions covering physical geography. Students analyze…

Students' understandings of the concepts of price control, oligopoly, and power before, during, and after taking a social science foundation course (D101) at Great Britain's Open University were investigated. Students were asked 10 questions on key concepts taught in the course. Three of the questions are addressed: (1) Why doesn't the…

The realization that all scientific phenomena are manifestations of energy, rather than separate subjects of inquiry for chemists, physicists, or biologists, has encouraged scientists to explore gaps between the traditional fields of scientific inquiry. In light of this fact, it would seem that the flow of energy should be a major area of concern…