Following months of pressure from states and education groups, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings has announced a pilot program that will let some states use what are known as growth models to evaluate the success of schools and districts under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. Growth models track the progress of youngsters over…

Identifies techniques for the formative and summative evaluation of intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) based on ITS research, expert systems design, computer-based instruction, education, and psychology. Highlights include criterion-based evaluation, expert knowledge, certification, sensitivity analysis, pilot testing, domain knowledge, student…

Describes reading-textbook evaluation and selection processes and argues that improved basal readers are likely to be developed if textbook adoption procedures improve. States that basal reader evaluation criteria and procedures should be developed and applied by those professionals most directly responsible for the teaching of reading. (Author/NH)

Discusses the Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) and describes a pilot project at the Open University (United Kingdom) that introduced credit for APL in one course. Steps in the assessment process are outlined, including constructing a student portfolio; and workload, staff development, and costs are considered. (LRW)

Describes the development of a hypertext-based library instruction program at Algonquin College (Ottawa) that used a shareware program called Simply Help! for developing help screens. Topics include a prototype program; pilot testing the library instruction, including faculty response and student surveys; and evaluation after full implementation.…

Describes an evaluative study of the use of interactive video in elementary and secondary school mathematics in the United Kingdom. The "Stepping Stones" game is described; and issues for the design of interactive media are discussed, including high quality sound and visuals, interactivity and pupil support, and activity off the…

This report documents the second phase of Yale University's Project Open Book, which explored the uses of digital technology for preservation of and access to deteriorating documents. Highlights include preconditions for project implementation; quality digital conversion; characteristics of source materials; digital document indexing; workflow…

Discusses interactive videodisc technology (IVD) development and potential; education and training capabilities specifically related to developing countries; costs; technical capabilities; likely applications which justify IVD's initial programming expenses; specific IVD applications relative to remedial mathematics and science education, job…

Studies suggest that the traditional technique of one-way lectures used most often by teachers results in about 42% retention after class, and 17% a week later. To improve both student learning and institutional effectiveness, colleges should support faculty development programs that expose teachers to two-way teaching and learning processes.…

Describes the implementation of a telefacsimile plan used for interlibrary loan messaging and document delivery, and evaluates the system in terms of volume and quality of transmissions, turnaround time, costs and human resources, and equipment operation. The benefits and potential of telefacsimile for interlibrary loans are summarized.…