Discussion of integrated learning systems (ILSs) stresses the role of the teacher and the necessity of adequate teacher training for successful implementation. Three implementation patterns are described: (1) using a group computer laboratory; (2) using an independent study laboratory; and (3) a distributed system. Problems with each method are…

Discusses how academic libraries and librarians in developing countries can contribute to the creation of self-directed learners and self-reliant researchers, especially among nontraditional students. The library role in independent learning programs and the collection size and library skills instruction required to meet learner needs are…

This interview brings out Susan Winebrenner's views on key concepts in her book on teaching gifted students in regular classrooms; the importance of appreciating diversity, utilizing flexible grouping, and allowing for varying learning styles; the administrator's role; the role of independent projects; and the special needs of gifted students. (DB)

Describes the Independent Study Program of Seekonk High School (Massachusetts), a program that allows students to leave school on a regular basis to volunteer within the community. Seniors choose a project and submit it for approval. Suggestions are given for implementing and sustaining such a program. (SLD)

All 50 exemplary private and public schools the author visited incorporated "best" educational practices: showing students how to learn; creating self-directed, independent learners; providing authentic learning experiences; increasing curriculum integration; using technology appropriately; equipping students with needed skills; and…

Clarifies the nature of second-language (L2) self-instruction involving the use of self-instructional broadcast materials, with particular reference to Japan, where such materials are widely used. Analysis of responses to an open-ended questionnaire administered to 138 university students reveals benefits and problems associated with this mode of…

Discusses the new version of "Information Power: Building Partnerships for Learning" published by the American Association of School Librarians and the Association for Educational Communications and Technology. Highlights include information literacy; lifelong learning; the role of school library media programs, including collaboration…

Examines how elementary school students improved their scientific discourse on a computer-networked database environment called Computer-Supported Intentional Learning Environments (CSILE). Results showed that system affordance specially designed for jointly written discourse in the discussion-note based (D-CSILE) configuration significantly…

Describes a complete, interactive, introductory German course on CD for adults. Designed for independent learning, the course emphasizes speaking and listening, though it provides a basis in reading and writing. Describes the role of contrastive grammar, proficiency-oriented teaching, the notational-functional approach, and word frequency counts…

Investigates the effects of preservice teachers working in paired-learning conditions versus working independently on a computer-based tutorial/simulation designed to teach users about an electronic-mail system. Findings support previous research on the positive effects of paired learning using computer-based instruction designed for individual…

Reports on a study of the views of teachers and staff on the introduction of individual investigative work into the precollege, advanced-level chemistry courses in Great Britain. Contains 21 references. (DDR)

Investigated incidental language-learning by subjects using multimedia as a self-study and mandatory component of an undergraduate module. Language items recalled and reused while subjects were engaged in a meaning-focused task were compared with those in two multimedia applications for evidence of incidental learning. Analysis compared language…

Describes the basic mechanisms of the SimQuest, an authoring system for designing/creating simulation-based learning environments. The functionality authors have in providing the learner with guidance and experiences on how authors use opportunities and learners employ the cognitive support are reported.(Author)

Presents results of a study on the use of learning activities in self-instructional materials by distance learners of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). It shows that learners make use of the activities extensively as they have positive perceptions about benefits of Self-Assessment Questions and Terminal Questions given in the…

A study was conducted at one of the study centers of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) to find out what extent material is self-instructional, and other factors related to print material and its effectiveness in distance education. Results are presented in this article. One major finding was that to a large extent, students were…