This article takes a contrarian position: an "instructional design" or "teacher training" model, because of the sheer number of its interconnected parameters, is too complex to assess or to compare with other models. Models may not be the way to go just yet. This article recommends instead prior experimental research on limited…

This study combined the concept of self-control with Keller's ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction) model of motivational design to determine whether students could be trained to make instruction relevant to themselves by using metalearning strategies. Results suggest students can be trained to do this and that this training can…

Guidelines presented for the design of instruction using interactive technologies are based on theory and research in learning, instruction, and/or media development. Also explained is a meta-model, ROPES, which highlights retrieval of information, orienting activities, presentation, encoding in the cognitive structure, and the sequencing of…

Discussion of computer conferencing as a collaborative learning strategy and a group-oriented decision-making process highlights a study of undergraduates at the University of Delaware who participated in a computer conference. Technical responsibilities, strategy development, debate advancement, and user temperament are examined; and the value of…

Summarizes the findings of a two-month case study of Edmonds Cyberschool (Washington), a resource center for homeschoolers. The study focused on the impact of technology on students' learning as indicated in three areas: attitude toward technology, the use of technology, and value of technology versus other available resources. (Author/LRW)

Describes two experiments on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) interaction in which interactional analysis is utilized to provide information on the interaction of students with microcomputers. It is suggested that interactional analysis is the key to improving the design and application of CAI materials. (MBR)

Discusses the distinctions between formative and summative evaluation as they apply to instructional products (materials) and people (learners). Various terms for these four types of evaluation are mentioned, and their characteristics are described through examples from both educational and corporate instructional settings. (11 references)…

Describes a feasibility study designed to investigate interactive video and the balance of student versus program control with respect to the sequence of content presentation, the choice of how many practice exercises to do, and the strategy for alternating between the modes of receptive and active learning. (MBR)

Third-grade children were studied to determine whether (1) children can apply a cognitive strategy learned in language arts to television programs, (2) training improves comprehension of videotaped material, and (3) these skills generalize to other settings. Thirteen references and descriptions of the 10 videotapes and film used are provided. (MER)

Description of a microcomputer-based instructional strategy used to adapt computer assisted instruction (CAI) to individual learners' needs highlights its use with elementary school arithmetic classes to solve work problems. Experiments with a control group that received conventional problems are described, and applications for undergraduate…

Describes study of undergraduates that compared the effects of different small group sizes on learner achievement using computer controlled interactive videodisc. The results of pretests and posttests are reported, learning achievement and instructional time are used to calculate an instructional efficiency index, and further research is…