Ziegler and Phillipson (Z&P) have provided a valuable discussion of the identification and development of giftedness under a systemic umbrella, including issues of differing theoretical approaches and efficacy. This commentary considers their discussion within a novel systemic framework that links also individuals and environment, but in terms of…

In this issue, Cavanaugh, Giapponi, and Golden (2016) have discussed the new prominent role of digital devices in the lives of students; the possible impact of these widely-used technologies on developing, learning minds; and the relevance of new cognitive neuroscience research and technologies for better understanding the potential effects of…

Neurological research has discovered much about how the brain works, Dr. Willis writes, but educators need to be cautious when applying this research to teaching. Following a brief explanation of the three most important technological advances in brain research (Positron Emission Tomography, Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Quantitative…

This paper attempts to clarify the meaning of using the computer as a tool for information processing. Provides spreadsheet and database examples of such use for high school geography. (JDH)

Discussed is the college teacher as lecturer. Three basic areas are looked at: attention mechanisms, information processing, and memory. Nine suggestions are presented which, if employed, will improve the lecture process. (KC)

It is suggested that most of the things people learn are not taught; they are learned by induction. Learning and teaching theories are analyzed with a focus on the induction theory and its implications. The symbol processing carried out by computers is used as a point for comparison. (JMD)

Argues that students and teachers should be matched according to similar learning and teaching styles in order to facilitate students' learning. (SRT)

Discusses where and when word processing training should take place, prerequisites to word processing training, modifying vendor training materials, building drills and repetition into lessons, which computer operations to include in word processing curriculum, beginning lessons with a review, and teaching the use of documentation. (CT)

This paper argues that in teaching educational psychology, different experts often compartmentalize theories in substantially different ways, and there is considerable disagreement within the field regarding the dividing lines that separate various "isms." The four main "isms" (behaviorism, information processing theory, constructivism, and social…

Discusses possibilities and dangers involved with using hypertext for learning; explains how it is similar to and different from other forms of information generation, organization, storage, and retrieval; examines its influence on the information it organizes; and explores problematic issues (including the potential for bias and distortion within…

Examines the implications of cognitive psychology for some of the fundamental components of instructional development. Behaviorism and information processing are compared in their relationships to instructional design, and potential changes for such ideas as objectives, evaluation, instructional taxonomies, content analysis, and instructional…

Personal computers and the many telecommunications options will have an important role in the facilitation of improved professional practice of adult educators. Three items are needed to set up for telecommunications: the personal computer, the modem, and a communications (software) package. Potential uses of personal computers by adult educators…

These papers presented at a symposium describe how tenth grade students would be taught the slope of a line in geometry using three different approaches to teaching theory: behaviorism, Piagetian cognitive development, and information processing. Analyses of each approach focus on manner of learner cooperation and differing teacher role. (MBR)

This paper argues that successful programs for students with learning disabilities provide ongoing, intensive, explicit, and direct instruction in learning strategies that enable students to become independent learners. It then describes SMARTER teaching, a method developed to help teachers shift their approaches to teaching to make them more…

Discusses the new automated office and its six major technologies (data processing, word processing, graphics, image, voice, and networking), the information processing cycle (input, processing, output, distribution/communication, and storage and retrieval), ergonomics, and ways to expand office education classes (versus class instruction). (CT)