Describes a one-year experiment in self-directed learning for intermediate English students at the School of Mining Engineering of Nancy (France). Analyzes students' responses to a questionnaire and teachers' observations in an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach as compared to traditional second language courses. (MES)

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional methodology placing primary emphasis on students solving realistic problems in a team-oriented environment. In this article, authors discuss using PBL to integrate a language for specific purposes (LSP) track into an undergraduate biological engineering curriculum as a way to prepare students for an…

A unit on adult learning with an exercise based on the theories of Malcolm Knowles and Allen Tough is described. After students in the class see that they actually planned and directed much of their significant adult learning, they are eager to join in the process of modifying course objectives. (MLW)

Describes a prototype of computer-assisted language learning software, "BUSCA," that attempts to bridge the gap between commercially available, but pedagogically unsound, Spanish Foreign Language learning programs. The article notes that "BUSCA" is designed to be integrated into a formal course to assist students to become…

In this discussion of ethics instruction in a distance education course the question is raised of how to develop a "fit" between the objectives of a course and the strategy for instruction, interaction, and evaluation. The paper discusses specific problems confronting distance education course planners. First, while the objectives of…

The Department of Nursing of St. Anselm's College undertook a project designed to improve the curriculum and instructional design of the nursing program. The general objective was to develop and revise learning packages by providing supportive and technical assistance to the faculty. The following tasks were accomplished: development of learning…

Discusses mixed ability teaching within the British comprehensive foreign language educational system. Findings reveal that the British system will not soon return to selective modern language teaching (MLT) focusing on grammar and translation, and it is concluded that differentiation is the key to successful MLT for the next century. (CK)

Encourages those whose use of technology now extends no further than the language laboratory to examine what can be done with some of the simpler computer-based technologies inside and outside the classroom. The article argues that the computer is the best tool available for taking tedious grammar drills out of the classroom while keeping them in…

Six independent study projects are offered to students in an introductory psychology course at the University of Houston. The projects include a term paper, book critique, independent research project, audio and/or visual demonstration, research assistance to a faculty member, and a community service option. The most popular of these projects is…

A prototype for the development of an auto-tutorial course in anatomy and physiology for adult learners in Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) was implemented in the fall semester, 1980, at Waukesha County Technical Institute in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. The format of the two-semester course consists of two hours of scheduled lecture time and three hours of…