Block-based visual programming tools are widely used in elementary education. Nonetheless, these tools alone may not ensure the spontaneous and efficient acquisition of concepts and skills in computational thinking (CT). Using mind mapping as a form of scaffolding to facilitate the visualization of abstract thinking processes may enhance the…

Outlines the importance of testing in the Mastery Learning process. Points out that as students demonstrate mastery, the amount of paperwork lessens for teachers. (MD)

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…

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)

Presents a four-step process for staff members interested in designing their own mastery learning program. (Author/JM)

The author's adaptation of a mastery learning program to a Beginning Algebra course is described. Test score averages clearly increased. (MNS)

Addresses the questions of why and how school learning activities might be made more playlike. Suggests that the concept of flow and of mastery learning are linked. While this relationship must be tested empirically, it offers the possibility of improving teaching techniques. (CB)

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)

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)

The Mastery in Learning Project is helping teachers and administrators overcome the isolation of their traditional roles to become professional collaborators. (Author/TE)

The article outlines a strategy called repeated reading which aids educable mentally handicapped and learning-disabled students in gaining mastery of reading skills. Repeated reading focuses on reading passages rather than single words and emphasizes reading rate. The article discusses the method's theoretical basis, empirical evidence, contextual…

Examines recent research to show that group-based mastery learning programs have consistently positive effects on student learning outcomes, including academic achievement, material retention, involvement in learning activities, and student attitudes. These programs also affect teachers and have considerable potential for implementation in regular…

Describes an individualized chemistry course based on mastery learning. The course uses the CHEM Study inquiry approach and textbooks with students proceeding at different rates, according to their individual abilities and interests, through a prescribed set of learning activities involving readings, sound pages, films, experiments, problem sets,…

The development of mastery learning theory is traced as a teaching-learning strategy and its application in five steps is discussed. Practical classroom concerns are considered and the implications for the teacher's changing roles are examined. (CL)

Discusses the planning, development, implementation, and course management required to use the Personalized System of Instruction in the basic speech communication course. (PD)