The roles of perceptions in instructional development and adoption processes were studied with regard to the attributes of three computer-based learning modules designed for use in weather-forecasting agencies as on-site training for forecasters. Twenty-nine forecasters were the potential adoption group studied as intended end-users. Seven…

Outcomes of a workshop to develop specific skills for observing and coaching classroom teachers in the Atlanta (Georgia) Public Schools are described in this report. The workshop was designed to train teacher leaders, mentors, peer coaches, and administrators in nonconfrontational communication skills for conducting teacher evaluation composed of…

This issue contains five articles that address environmental concerns. "Poverty and Environmental Decline" (Alan Durning) analyzes accelerating environmental decline and discusses the need for action at every level to reverse global deterioration. "Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Made Easy" (Cesar Galvan, Peter Kenmore)…

This report on a Systematic Teacher Training Model deals with the operation of a teacher education program in providing practice for preservice and inservice trainees. Chapter I describes major program components: (1) selection, diagnosis (of trainee's needs), and placement; (2) programmed or nonprogrammed training and practice; (3) evaluation;…

Mastering alternative models of teaching helps build competence and effectiveness in the repertoire of classroom teachers. However, because the attainment of new skills does not by itself ensure transfer to classroom use, teacher training programs should incorporate study of the transfer process itself, reinforced by team effort. Accordingly,…

To develop a profile of inhouse, company teachers of technical communication, a six-page questionnaire was administered to technical writing teachers. Of the 52 respondents, 24 offered both formal inhouse courses and informal training while 22 conducted only formal courses. Titles, course outlines, and other survey comments revealed that many…

The demand for skilled technical editors is growing as society places increasing emphasis on receiving accurate, concise, and complete technical data. Since many organizations do not have inhouse programs for training technical editors, a need exists to provide inexperienced people with basic editing skills. One organization has developed two…

A systems approach to effective instructional design that is equally applicable to educational and organizational settings includes six components: (1) needs assessment, (2) systems design, (3) curriculum development, (4) organizational development, (5) feedback and evaluation, and (6) outcomes. The last component, outcomes, provides a context and…

To lay a foundation for the design and effective use of low-cost, part-task and low-fidelity training devices, this report identifies dimensions of skill performance in terms of modern learning and behavior theory, and analyzes cognitive and motor skills as they relate to information processing. Cognitive processes discussed include task…

The purpose of this water treatment field study training program is to: (1) develop new qualified water treatment plant operators; (2) expand the abilities of existing operators, permitting better service both to employers and public; and (3) prepare operators for civil service and certification examinations (examinations administered by…

This packet contains materials, process guidelines, discussion questions, and suggestions that serve as a guide for a 3-hour training session on the topic of organizational culture for groups of from 7 to 21 (or more) adults. During the training session, participants simulate organizational behaviors following three different sets of cultural…

The use and training of graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) in higher education was evaluated via questionnaires mailed nationwide to schools and departments offering graduate programs. Usable questionnaires were received from 164 of 323 graduate school deans and from 470 of 1,112 graduate school department chairs/heads. The graduate deans survey…

This document synthesizes research findings to formulate a theory to guide relaxation training in educational settings, particularly rural schools. Young people experience many intense life events that require coping skills or relaxation. Family-related stress factors include instability in the home, lack of a support system, conflicting values,…

Underlying the research reported in this paper is a theoretical framework which defines the self-regulation of learning as the number and kinds of teaching tasks students perform themselves. Three studies are presented on individual differences in regulation-processes emerging from thinking aloud protocols. Protocols of good and weaker performing…

This report is designed to provide human resource development professionals and their managers with a framework to help justify the costs of structured on-the-job training (OJT). The report begins by defining OJT as the one-on-one process of providing the knowledge and skills to perform a specific task within a job. These five features of OJT are…