A study examined the extent to which various individualized instructional methods were utilized in Navy "A" and "C" courses. During the study, questionnaires were mailed to instructors involved in teaching a random stratified sample of 623 Navy "A" and "C" school courses (a sample that represented 25 percent…

Summarizes educational research on four aspects of learner feedback--function, timing, schedule, and type--and discusses implications of the findings for software development. (MBR)

Investigated effects of computer assisted instruction (CAI) on learning efficiency, defined as either higher passing percentage or less time on task. Subjects (N=24) were college mathematics students who either were lectured or had a CAI tutorial on the lowest common denominator. The CAI group took less time, but solved more problems incorrectly.…

Examines educational tasks in general computing, including computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction, word processing, secretarial and business applications, time sharing, and networking to larger computers. (CT)

Presents ideas to help teachers make one-computer classrooms work. Suggestions include making sure the teacher masters the computer, managing computer time, using keyboarding strategies (such as photocopied keyboards for practice), and using time-saving techniques (e.g., previewing programs, pooling resources, and treating computers with care).…

Discusses standards developed by the Educational Computer Service of the National Education Association that incorporate technical, educational, and documentation components to guide authors in the development of quality educational software. (Author/MBR)

Describes a Wisconsin program that successfully computerized the libraries of the entire school system, making them more efficient and enabling better use of professional staff time. (MD)

Meta-analysis of 34 comparative studies on conventional vs. individualized instruction (II) found most favored the latter but with small-moderate overall effect. Pacing had significant effect, with teacher-pacing more effective than student-paced learning. On average, II required less time than conventional teaching. Additional research on this…

Describes four computer program features to avoid when using microcomputers for instruction: (1) fill-justified text, which may slow reading rate; (2) drill randomization, which may increase learning time needed; (3) timed pauses, which are based on averages that are seldom realized; and (4) flashing text, which may create negative attitudes among…

A recent cost-benefit analysis was made of reduced class size, increased instructional time, computer-assisted instruction, and peer or cross-age tutoring. Tutoring turned out to have the greatest effect on student learning and to be the most cost effective. Implementation of a successful tutoring program is described. (MT)

Provides suggestions for using live demonstrations of online searching to promote dynamic interaction in online instruction. Equipment for live demonstrations is described, including a microcomputer, modem, communications software, and computer projection system; search demonstration techniques are discussed; audience dynamics are considered; and…

A computer-assisted instruction program was used to teach spelling words to 5 learning-disabled or educable mentally handicapped students (ages 11-12) using a time delay procedure; manage content presentation based on individual student responding; and collect performance data. Four students learned the words, though maintenance varied.…

This study examined two approaches to self-instruction by hearing-impaired students through use of instructor-developed science modules. Subjects were 24 students (ages 18-28) enrolled in allied health programs at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. The first approach involved the reading of science modules and writing answers on study…

Describes a study that was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) through a comparison of the achievement and study time of students taught by the PLATO system and those taught by the traditional lecture method. Data support the PLATO system as a viable learning option. (ML)

Reviews educational applications of artificial intelligence and presents empirically-based design variables for developing a computer-based instruction management system. Taken from a programmatic research effort based on the Minnesota Adaptive Instructional System, variables include amount and sequence of instruction, display time, advisement,…