Paradoxically some "extreme" didactic needs, such as those of students who are unable to attend normal education regularly (e.g., hospitalized and/or homebound students), have shown themselves to be ideal for the development of a teaching style aimed at stimulating the active role of the student, at fostering a learning process based…

Evidence collected on the effectiveness of four educational technologies is briefly reviewed. The authors conclude that there is reasonable evidence that computer-assisted instruction can have at least a modest effect on improving learning and probably more when its instructional approaches are properly matched to instructional objectives, that…

Reviews findings from the behavioral sciences which are related to the referential, informational, demand, relational, and image-of-the-other characteristics of instructional presentations. The need for research which would extend knowledge about these items is also discussed. Five references are appended. (Author/LLS)

The process of diagnosis in education is basically a process of needs assessment and of finding ways of meeting the needs of the learner thus identified. The model described suggests that the basis for this process is three elements: (a) the needs of the students; (b) structure of the learning program; (c) placement data regarding the individual…

Discusses the need for increased emphasis on client relations in instructional technology programs of study and describes a graduate course that was developed to meet that need for experiential learning and practice. Explains the model of cognitive apprenticeship learning environments used which includes the sociology, methods, content, and…

Presents a four-step conceptual framework for designing workshops to teach educators software infusion (SI), i.e., the use of computer software to enhance instructional effectiveness in school academic areas. Suggestions for implementation and sample worksheets accompany the discussions of each step. (MBR)

Discusses engagement theory (students meaningfully engaged in learning activities through interaction with others and worthwhile tasks) and the three components, collaboration, project orientation, and authentic focus, and outlines research questions to establish its efficacy. (PEN)

Presents four stages of learning together with teaching techniques appropriate to each stage. The role of the media specialist in meeting the needs of students and teachers at each stage is discussed, and the four stages of media library services are outlined. (5 references) (CLB)

Argues that the tendency to focus on the technical aspects of distance learning contributes to the infrequency of distance learning methods usage in education and training. Discusses the technical and human dimensions of distance learning, resistance to change, user perspective, and inertia and entropy. Outlines 10 human dimension principles…