This paper presents a summary of research on outcome-based education (OBE). The first section provides an overview of the evolution and history of OBE in the United States. Other outcome-based models are described in the second section. The third section reviews research on OBE and related concepts, including mastery learning, cooperative…

Suggestions are offered for ensuring the effectiveness of individualized instruction and mastery learning. One or two brief ideas are presented in each of the following areas: (1) homework; (2) after-school help; (3) supplementary corrective programs; (4) parent involvement; (5) enrichment exercises; (6) supplementary materials; (7) student tutors…

Cooperative learning as a promising approach for higher education is discussed in terms of its relation to active learning, cognitive processing, and personalizing principles and concepts. Preliminary data from experimental classes demonstrated little advantage for a group improvement incentive. While students in the bottom third of these classes…

This annotated bibliography on mastery learning, intended for use by teachers, administrators, curriculum-planners, and researchers, covers writings and reports on the following topics: (1) research reports; (2) use of mastery learning concepts and strategies; (3) task skills analysis; (4) sequential learning; (5) learning hierarchies; (6) task…

Rural schools in Utah responded to state and local calls for school reform by implementing Outcome Based Education (OBE) programs beginning in March 1984. Significant improvements in learning have occurred as measured by test scores. Workshops introduced rural educators to OBE which provided a philosophical and operational framework for school…

The Time for Mastery Program was specifically designed to minimize the time costs of mastery learning by maximizing the use of instructional time to the fullest advantage. The program was implemented by three high school districts in suburban Chicago during the 1984-85 academic year. This article presents a brief description of the program, as…

The Vermont Outcomes-Based Network, consisting of educators from 10 school districts and the University of Vermont, is a loosely linked organization designed to improve instruction by sharing resources, especially for staff development. Network members have formally adopted an outcomes-based, mastery learning instructional philosophy holding that…

This guide provides a list of learner outcomes for students in grades 2 through 10 that are important for subsequent learning in the associated subject area. Competencies and skills are indicated for the following subject areas: (1) language arts, reading, and English; (2) mathematics; (3) science; and (4) social studies and civics. Each section…

Examining the translation of mastery learning theory into the practice of reading programs, this paper challenges the appropriateness of mastery learning for reading instruction. Noting that the use of the term "mastery" is arrogant, conservative, and dogmatic, the paper explores the ramifications of translating mastery learning theory…

A degree of controversy and debate exists about the best educational experiences to fulfil the potential of gifted students. Special class placement can give good educational experiences and opportunities for gifted students. However, Marsh and Parker (1984) described the big-fish-little-pond effect (BFLPE) where equally able students have lower…

This paper discusses a number of contingency arrangements used in studies at the University of Kansas to enhance individualized characteristics of personalized instruction. It begins with an examination of Keller's Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) and its five defining features: (1) reliance on the written word, (2) unit mastery, (3) the…

Mastery learning is an optimistic theory of human learning that proposes that all learners can achieve mastery of the school's curricular content. Since it demands long range planning and precise designing of learning programs, this method cannot be employed without a great deal of thought and preparation. The forerunners of mastery learning go…

"Fun activities," such as games, puzzles, discussions, debates, drama, and art, are used in every unit of the Chicago Mastery Learning Reading/Learning Strategies program. Activities include (1) ungraded optional activities, (2) enrichment activities, and (3) subject-related applications. These materials aid in comprehension, memory, and transfer;…

The decay in the quality of education is due to a breakdown in authority the schools have over students and educational processes. Emphasis must be placed on the school's power to determine minimum competencies through periodic evaluation, and, if necessary, to prescribe remedial education or grade repetition. Schools should have special reading…

The paper describes the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) used in an allied health course in human physiology at the University of Texas. Distinguishing features of the PSI system of individualizing courses are mastery learning, self-pacing, and immediate feedback, with the instructor as class manager rather than lecturer. (MF)