Literature on achievement effects of practical applications of group-based mastery learning in elementary and secondary schools over at least four weeks is examined, using the best-evidence synthesis review technique (a combination of meta-analysis and narrative reviews). There was essentially no evidence to support the effectiveness of…

Modeling the behaviors they expect students to exhibit is one way teachers can teach comprehension skills. Teachers need to give multiple examples wherein the teacher models every behavior students should exhibit, giving the answer to the question, and giving the line of reasoning followed to arrive at the answer. To teach each separate…

Reviews research on mastery learning approaches to instruction. (MKM)

Examines Bloom's theories of mastery learning as developed in his book--"Human Characteristics and School Learning." (IRT)

Instructional alignment is the extent to which stimulus conditions match three instructional components. This paper demonstrates a new perspective in which instructional alignment generates larger effects in research and practice for less "cost" than other instructional constructs. (VM)

This article examines the literature on achievement effects of practical applications of grouped-based mastery learning in elementary and secondary schools. The review found no evidence to support the claim that mastery learning improves student performance on standardized achievement measures. (RB)

In this rejoinder, R. Slavin responds to a broad range of technical and philosophical issues about his use of best-evidence synthesis to research the effectiveness of mastery learning. (RB)

This exploratory study determined whether a mathematical model of mastery learning provided a good fit for achievement data obtained from student progress in an introductory, college-level astronomy course for nonmajors. Results provide positive but not compelling evidence that the model of mastery learning is correct. (JN)

Compares a conventional method of basic mathematics instruction (mastery learning) with a structuralist approach using analogical reasoning. Pretest posttest results from three adult education classes show that analogical teaching is more effective in developing ability to think numerically. (SK)

To eliminate the lack of systematic feedback in cooperative learning, this study used a 2 x 2 (Student Teams x Mastery Learning) factorial design to investigate the effects of student teams using mastery learning strategies on mathematics achievement of fifth-grade children. The results and their implications are discussed. (Author/MT)

Describes the Philadelphia Public Schools' formative testing program, used to diagnose students' difficulties under mastery learning, especially in mathematics. Discusses in turn the classroom, school, and district aspects of the program and summarizes the program's essential features. A full-page chart outlining aids and hindrances to formative…

This review focuses on recent research illustrating how performance goals show positive effects, similar to those of mastery goals. Many studies on students achievement goals and motivation have relied on two goal structures: mastery and performance. The mastery goal approach had the distinction of being preferred for its adaptive qualities while…

Explores whether the skills management systems, based on the mastery learning theory, can be used to foster creative reading--the highest level of skill development. (FL)

The Instructional Systems Development process and the application of a mastery learning strategy is used to train Marine Corps recruits. This method seems to hold promise in training widely divergent groups of human beings for high levels of performance. (Author/MLF)

Mastery learning, an approach originated by B. Bloom and based on formative testing to give the student feedback and correction, is advocated as an effective way to individualize instruction in a mainstreamed setting. (CL)