Attacks the precept that students should choose and direct their own learning activities according to what interests them. Indicates that the notion of personal responsibility in learning is vitally important, but is misunderstood by advocates of "open" education. (GS)

Describes grade 9 student responses to instructional materials constructed on objectives derived from Piaget's balance and inclined place problems. Concludes the presence of a hierarchy only in the balance objectives. Indicates implications worthy of further studies. (CC)