It is often hypothesized that prior knowledge strongly predicts learning performance. It can affect learning positively mediated through some processes and negatively mediated through others. We examined the relation between prior knowledge and learning in a meta-analysis of 8776 effect sizes. The stability of individual differences, that is, the…

In this review of literature we examine empirical research of individual differences in younger readers' knowledge and use of expository text structures. The goal of this review is to explore the influence of reader and text characteristics in order to better understand the instructional needs of elementary school readers. First we review research…

Explores the relationship between mathematical concepts and the circumstances of learning as they relate to within-individual variation. Analyzes previous results on mathematical concepts in and out of school in terms of their similarities and differences. (RJC)

Educational psychology has indicated that prior knowledge is a potentially important educational variable. Recent and earlier research in educational psychology has shown that 30 to 60% of the variance in study results could be explained by this variable. Insight into these factors should influence the return on education. A common theoretical…

This statement signed by 52 researchers outlines conclusions regarded as mainstream among researchers on intelligence, especially on the nature, origins, and practical consequences of individual and group differences in intelligence. The survey from which the statement was developed is described. (SLD)

The article identifies areas of critical knowledge (i.e., conceptual, content, practical, and metacognitive) and skill competencies (diagnostic, teaching and managing atypical learners, setting academic and behavior standards, and motivating students) needed by general educators to effectively address individual differences. (Author/DB)

Proposes five generalizations on existing knowledge, learning, and their interaction, and discusses evidence for these from recent research on children's learning, memory, conceptual understanding, and problem solving. (Author/AOS)

The question examined in this paper is: what is known exactly about variables that affect long-term retention of knowledge learned in school? U. Neisser (1982) asserts that "it is difficult to find even a single study, ancient or modern, of what is retained from academic instruction." Further, popular belief holds that much of the knowledge…

Maps or graphical browsers of structural knowledge allow the user of a hypertext system to navigate from node to node through the structure as they portray the links between concepts spatially. This study examined the results of using two different graphical browsers that provide different amounts of information about the structure of the…

Aptitude-treatment interaction research is reviewed, with particular emphasis on the interaction of achievement and instructional method. Previous research has suggested that students with lower prior achievement require maximal instructional support. Recent research on this relationship is reviewed, as well as the relationship between…

Examines current theory and research about educating teachers concerning diversity, cultural pluralism, and equity. Explores how teacher educators attempt to transfer multicultural skills, beliefs, and knowledge in ways that help every child learn. Every teacher needs to incorporate cultural diversity to acknowledge the different needs and goals…

This paper examines a research paradigm that is particularly suited to experimentation-related computer-based instruction and integrated learning systems. The main assumption of the model is that one of the most powerful capabilities of computer-based instruction, and specifically of integrated learning systems, is the capacity to adapt…