Designers of interactive learning environments face the issue of managing the learner's cognitive load, reducing irrelevant sources while optimizing useful sources of load. I propose a conceptual framework aimed at organizing the contributions of the papers presented in this special issue. The framework identifies three main dimensions, namely…

Several key principles for planning an early literacy curriculum are discussed, including finding and using children's "funds of knowledge," building democratic communities in early childhood settings, honoring diversity among children and teachers, and finding strategies that effectively engage children. Finally, above all else, the…

Examines the need for integrating assumptions about learning processes with the decisions typically made when designing instructional systems. The relationships between learning theory and instructional design are discussed, and suggestions offered for improving the design process. Extensive references are included. (Author/BK)

Much of the extensive diagnosis, testing, and data collection that now occur in reading clinics is time consuming and unnecessary. Private and university-based reading clinics, however, need to provide worthwhile activities that support students' literacy learning while they consider the important relationship of instruction and evaluation. After…

Content area reading instruction includes two elements: the information presented in subject matter text, and the plan that teachers use to help students understand the content. According to research and interviews with social studies teachers, there is a high failure rate in the social studies content area because children have problems…

Review of recent literature on learning-to-learn focuses on how to improve learning activities. Highlights include criterion variables that influence learning activities; prerequisites of learning, including prior knowledge, intellectual capability, environmental factors, and motivation; learning strategies; how to teach learning strategies; and…

J. D. Bransford's tetrahedral model of learning considers four variables: (1) learning activities, (2) characteristics of the learner, (3) criterial tasks, and (4) the nature of the materials. Bransford's model provides a research-based theoretical framework that can be used to teach, model, and have students apply a variety of study strategies to…

A new integrative learning model has been designed to help corporate educators facilitate employee learning transfer and on-the-job performance. The model's components are as follows: (1) access new information, ideas, experiences, and/or perspectives; (2) identify relevance and value based on integrated life experience and wisdom; (3) engage in…

Discussion of the dominance of males in technology-oriented fields focuses on sex-related differences in conjunction with the use of computers in education. Topics discussed include the attitudes of parents and teachers; lack of female role models; previous experiences with video games; and cooperative versus competitive learning activities. (11…