This paper presents a model for mastery learning. The framework for this model overlays the cognitive and knowledge dimensions from Krathwohl's revision of Bloom's Taxonomy, the Revised Taxonomy, with Polanyi's theory of personal knowledge. A simplified framework integrates Polanyi's concepts of subsidiary and focal awareness with the Revised…

Math fact fluency involves the quick, accurate retrieval of basic arithmetic combinations and the ability to use this fact knowledge efficiently. Math fact retrieval is typically considered fluent when performed accurately within 2 to 3 seconds, and "efficiency" refers to students' ability to apply fact knowledge to more complex…

Adaptive learning is a computerized learning environment in which software evaluates how well students learn course content. Students read textual materials, view videos and listen to audio files. The software then creates an individualized learning path for the student based on how well they perform in quizzes embedded in their lessons. As such,…

A problematic, yet common, assumption among educational researchers is that when teachers provide authentic, problem-based experiences, students will automatically be engaged. Evidence indicates that this is often not the case. In this article, we discuss (a) problems with ignoring motivation in the design of learning environments, (b)…

As the demand for online education continues to increase, institutions are faced with developing process models for efficient, high-quality online course development. This paper describes a systems, team-based, approach that centers on an online instructional design theory ("Active Mastery Learning") implemented at Colorado State…

More than a dozen CAI modules which teach the uninitiated user how to use the interactive Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) are described. The modules are based on the principle of incrementally increasing difficulty, self pacing, and student involvement. The first half of the set introduces the student to interactive computing,…

Examines the historical background of mastery learning, discussing computer assisted instruction (CAI), cooperative learning, and constructivist learning as related to mastery learning. CAI is described as a tool to help teachers when using mastery learning. Comparisons between cooperative and mastery learning are made, and support for research…

Many colleges and universities have adopted e-learning platforms to utilize computers as an instructional tool in developmental (i.e., beginning and intermediate algebra) mathematics courses. An e-learning platform is a computer program used to enhance course instruction via computers and the Internet. Allegany College of Maryland is currently…

Describes the use of microcomputer demonstrations as a motivating tool in a college psychology course that uses a mastery-based Personalized System of Instruction (PSI). The eight modules that make up the course and the 14 computer-oriented programs associated with them are explained, and an appendix includes student instructions. (eight…

Describes a self-paced, computer-managed course on internal medicine for medical students at the University of South Dakota. The rationale for using a computer-based system is outlined, and the program is evaluated for cost-effectiveness, currency of information, curriculum goals and objectives, and student attitudes. (EAO)

This personal account of the development of computer-based learning from the 1960s to the present argues that the 1960s were a period of gestation. Instructional applications of computers at that time included efforts to simulate physics experiments and the debut of the PLATO system, which already had the ability to deliver interactive instruction…

An inexpensive computer-based system supporting mastery instruction is described. Components include an optically scanned card accommodating scores for hand-scored portions of examinations, software for making objective items and scoring, and software for reporting total test scores and designated subscore sets. Subscores can be provided for…

Considers new modes of course organization that are based on computers, videodisc players, compact disk players, and other components of interactive technology. Topics discussed include student control of content and pace, ways of learning, mastery courses, learning cycles, hypercourses (non-linear courses), and student organized courses. (17…

Identifies problems with much of the early drill and practice software, and describes the development of a software package designed to assist with mastery learning in chemistry. The discussion covers features of the different programs and their effect on student performance. (CLB)

Discusses the use of multimedia techniques in computer-assisted learning (CAL) to help dyslexic children with spelling. An evaluation study that tested rule-based versus mastery-based approaches to spelling remediation is reported; problems that dyslexic children have with traditional CAL are discussed; and software that uses synthesized speech is…