Contrasts aptitude by treatment interaction (ATI) and hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) methods for making cross-level inferences between individual-level and group-level factors in school effectiveness research. Recommends HLM when intraclass correlations are high. ATI is suitable when intraclass correlations are low, but partitioning the…

A study examined the effects of two factors--learner ability and modifications of instruction through increased feedback and reduced size of instructional units--on the time required for learning and the retention of fourth-grade male students. While instructional modifications best predicted the time needed for learning, learner ability best…

Variables which affect students' academic motivation, and thus, school learning, are discussed. Recent research has built on the model presented by Carroll in 1963. Research on the following concepts is reviewed: active learning time; academic motivation, significant others; sex of student; context of learning; and affective factors. (GDC)

Factors which appear to affect learning are reviewed: student characteristics of age, ability, and motivation; amount and quality of instruction; home and classroom environment; peer influence; television; school and principal effects; and financial expenditures. (GDC)

An attempt is made to consolidate some of the existing knowledge about important school variables and to propose new studies that will build upon that knowledge. The focus is on providing instruction to students from the orientation of educational psychology and in the context of elementary schools for students from low socioeconomic status…