Reviewed are studies which support direct training of reading skills, with a focus on behavior modification techniques, for use with all categories of exceptional children. (SBH)

University of Oklahoma Libraries conducted a cost study of circulation service-desk operations. Using percentages of staff time occupied in particular tasks, pay rates, indirect costs, and overhead, total costs were computed on task-by-task basis. Information served as basis for reorganization of work assignments and revision of staff scheduling.…

Argues that research and development (R&D) methods should be utilized to develop new technologies for training and retailing and describes useful research tools--critical incident methodology, task analysis, performance recording. Discussion covers R&D applications to interactive systems development in the areas of product need, customer…

This article first disconfirms the use of traditional evaluation procedures, and then focuses on direct assessment of academic performance. The interactive nature of learning and the use of a task analytical approach to treatment-oriented assessment are emphasized. (LMO)

Discusses rationale for distinguishing between task analysis and instructional analysis, contributions they make to instructional design, and why they are dependent on each other. Major functions in the instructional analysis process are described, examples are provided, and benefits of using this approach to achieve effective and efficient…

Discusses two ways in which task analysis can be integrated with instructional design--substantive integration, where the type of task analysis is determined by design type, and temporal integration, where analysis activities are interspersed with design activities. Flowcharts, examples of and procedures for instructional analysis, and references…

Focuses on the relationship between storytelling and organizational socialization. Examines the form, subject matter, and functions of stories and concludes that stories serve as a means for members of an organization to express their knowledge, understanding, and commitment to the organization. (PD)

Describes two approaches to teaching vocational English as a second language: (1) describing work activities in terms of processes and procedures and (2) describing work activities in terms of specific human behaviors. Suggests a goal analysis as an initial step before deciding which approach to take in any training project. (SED)

Applies a socio-psychological approach to social systems to examine the community mental health center (CMHC) movement, traces the historical evolution of the task mandate and the professional and organizational structures of the CMHCs to their legislative origins and considers possible future directions of the CMHC movement. (Author/JM)

The author presents a step-by-step procedure for home economics teachers to follow with their students in gathering information in their own communities about what homemakers do. The information can then be used in planning a program to prepare young people for the occupation of homemaking. (AJ)

This digest discusses using scaffolding instruction to optimize student learning by providing a supportive environment while facilitating student independence. It begins by identifying the following eight essential elements of scaffolding instruction that teachers can use as general guidelines: (1) pre-engagement with the student and the…

This document addresses how well ARC's computerized placement tests (Compass) assist individuals in reaching informed decisions about enrolling in selected courses, including English composition, reading, mathematics, and ESL. The document addresses the question of whether Compass scores add any relevant information in the decision-making process…

This paper describes the creation and evaluation of a World Wide Web-based courseware module, using conceptual models based on constructivism, that teaches novices how to use the Internet for searching. Questionnaires and interviews were used to understand the difficulties of a group of novices. The conceptual model of the experts for the task was…

This paper provides guidelines for the use of videotape recordings for systematic instruction in functional skills for students with moderate to severe disabilities. Four examples illustrate use of videotapes to teach community skills (e.g., crossing a street) to secondary students with moderate disabilities; self care skills (e.g., zipping a…

Described is the approach to evaluating student progress in the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School which is based upon observable behaviors in all subject areas from kindergarten through grade 12. (MC)