More than a dozen CAI modules which teach the uninitiated user how to use the interactive Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) are described. The modules are based on the principle of incrementally increasing difficulty, self pacing, and student involvement. The first half of the set introduces the student to interactive computing,…

It is conjectured that some skill entering into problem solving in physics courses might be responsible for making these courses so difficult. This might be the case if one or more basic problem-solving skills could not be mastered in the time and practice available. In order to test this hypothesis, a model of the way in which students solve…

This paper describes the development at Evergreen Valley College in San Jose, California, of a vocabulary mastery program using a multisensory approach. It includes a detailed outline of the development of the program, the procedures students follow for self-instruction and self-pacing, and the results of the program for the first 12 participants.…

The effectiveness of a Keller and Bloom mastery learning program for high school science students was examined by comparing remediation strategies of both programs and that of a traditional strategy. The data gathered in the experiment in chemistry were from a pre- and post-achievement test. Cognitive achievement was statistically different (p…

This document reviews the Phase Achievement System (PAS), a mastery-oriented instructional method, being utilized to teach biology at Iowa State University. The system is designed to reduce student failures from competitive, nonrepeatable examinations and presents course content material in a modularized form. A comparison with traditional lecture…

The purpose of this study is to describe and compare the performances of students in a beginning course in educational statistics. Modified mastery learning strategies such as the use of a pretest, diagnostic tests, parallel midterms, and an extended time allowance to master the content were employed during the course. Data was available on 359…

Mastery Learning produced a limited short-term enhancement of academic achievement, regardless of whether staff or student instructors were used. The use of student instructors with non-mastery audio-tutorial teaching seemed to be the least effective. All test groups showed marked long-term retention of knowledge. (Author/MA)

In this interview, James Block explains the model of mastery learning, developed by himself and B. Bloom, according to which individual differences in academic ability are lessened by appropriate teaching methods. (GW)

Two proponents of the precision teaching approach to teaching the handicapped discuss such principles as: the problem of partial application of the method; relationship to behaviorism; relationship to experiential learning; and the importance of fluency in task performance, mastery learning, and recordkeeping. (DB)

Investigates the cognitive and affective student learning outcomes of 16 semesters of a mastery learning approach in teaching business and distributive education classes. Concludes that mastery learning does produce successful learning experiences for at least 80% of the students. Provides mastery learning teaching strategies. (SRT)

Discusses R. Slavin's best-evidence synthesis method as an alternative to traditional meta-analysis and review techniques. Explains the inherent weaknesses of the technique Slavin uses and how the techniques can be misused. (RB)

In response to an interviewer's questions, internationally recognized educator Benjamin S. Bloom states his beliefs about the effectiveness of proposed educational reforms and argues for increased experimentation, greater stress on higher mental processes, the adoption of mastery learning, new research efforts, and more effective commitment to…

Specific procedures for assessing a handicapped student's mastery level within a continuum of mathematics skills are described, and analysis of error patterns discussed. (CL)

In this study social work instructor and student reactions to a behavioral instructional method called mastery learning were examined using qualitative methods. Mastery learning utilizes additional learning time and repeated testing opportunities to increase student learning. Students rated how helpful seven instructional elements of mastery…

Urges accurate assessment of program implementation and the determination of student performance in areas not measured by achievement tests. Offers indicators of hard-to-measure levels of achievement in teachers and students, as they have been developed in the Johnson City, New York, Public Schools' mastery learning approach. (JW)