The point of Choi and Clark (2006) was that after many well-designed studies, they have no evidence for either the learning or the motivational benefits of pedagogical agents. In their study, they found compelling evidence that when agents are found to enhance learning, a less expensive and less distracting pedagogical method has equal or greater…

Choi and Clark (2006) argue that learning is attributed to the instructional method rather than the specific medium used to deliver instruction (i.e., the pedagogical agent). Additionally, they consider pedagogical agents as unnecessarily expensive tools, whose instructional affordances can be replicated by less expensive options. In this response…

Discusses the impact of computer programing instruction on cognitive skills and suggests two mechanisms of transfer--low road, from practice, and high road, from generalization. Previous research that tried to measure transfer from programing is reviewed, six categories in which transfer might occur are presented, and 71 references are provided.…

Argues that classroom microcomputer use should be examined within the process of classroom instruction and describes several dimensions that the teacher instructional decision-making perspective suggests as criteria for evaluating whether classroom instruction using microcomputers is pedagogically sound: teacher instructional goals, curricula,…

Examines changes which have occurred in the development and evaluation of intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs), speculates on future directions, and proposes a conceptual model for the development of ITSs. Topics discussed include the effectiveness of ITSs; the need for multidisciplinary efforts; and internal and external evaluation. (Contains 78…

Discusses epistemological issues involved in the use of qualitative methods to assess classroom-based microcomputer programs, specifically Apple Computer's "Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow." Six models of qualitative data design and use are examined: anecdotal, structured observations, case study, multisite case study, ethnography, and…

Presents a theoretical framework for designing computer-based systems that guide students in learning strategy selection; compares theories for determining when system-assigned strategies will promote knowledge and skill acquisitions; reviews relationship between learning and instructional strategies; and outlines potential applications of…

Discussion of performance assessment focuses on a study that was part of the International Evaluation of Achievement of computer education that tested students in grades 8 and 11 on word processing performance tasks. Results are examined to determine the useability, reliability, and validity of the process. (eight references) (LRW)