New users learning to use text-processing systems, especially those who are using self-study materials without expert supervision, must often make sense of actions and events in situations where they have little basis, in prior knowledge or current information, for inferring what is happening or why. Many cases have been observed where learners…

Four items of software are described and reviewed in this first of a projected series of articles. (CRH)

Computer users need not form a mental model to describe what is happening during a tutorial. Rather, users need to form text schemas, and tutorials should be thought of as a communication medium. Tutorials should be considered to be like books, and hypertext may be the best structure for them. (Contains 40 references.) (JLB)

A futuristic design for foreign language learning is suggested using a video telephone, that is, a telephone with video and computer components included. Some introductory information is provided on ways the computer is being used today to organize and transmit information, and on models of individualized instruction which can be adapted to a home…

This paper outlines a proposed procedure for using an interactive computer-based approach to assist students in composing text on a word processor. It is suggested that the computer could provide the stimulus for writing, assist students during the writing process, and help the student to revise and edit the text. The first section explains the…

Children's instructional play and adults' self-education are activities characterized by learning without conventional teaching and by interactional variables. Because both child and adult perceive that they have learned "on their own," play as a form of "curriculum" may serve as an important simulation for later, self-directed…

Makes suggestions for how to choose computerized instructional materials based on the belief that if the subject matter is not inherent in what the student must do, it is not likely to be inherent in the student's thinking. (Author/JM)

Endorses the view that environmental concerns should feature prominently in the content and activities in science education at school level. Proposes a multidisciplinary approach to biology education and reports on a self-instructional skill training course on methods for teaching environmental education. (CS)

The efficacy of using graphic representations of concepts, which are more readily generated on a computer than in traditional texts, was studied. The study, which involved teaching computer programming, is described. The necessity of further research is discussed. (JL)

Suggests that correspondence education can be used to benefit students in regular schools by enriching curriculum, accelerating gifted pupils, making up work that has been failed or missed, resolving schedule conflicts, introducing adult education, individualizing learning programs, and providing adult evening programs. Outlines responsibilities…

The first of two parts, this article provides an overview of the factors affecting continuing education and the emerging technologies that are changing the kinds of resources used to support and enhance instruction. Satellite and video technologies, teleconferencing, cable television, and computer-based systems are discussed. Thirty-six references…

Defines multimedia didactics and notes instructional aids they offer. Highlights include interactivity within learning programs; the visualization and presentation of learning contents; the effectiveness in information programs; and the challenge of multimedia didactics for research and teaching. (AEF)

A self-instructional slide/tape program entitled "Idiopathic Scoliosis: Guide for Teaching Parents, Children and Health Care Personnel" was created for an audience of nurse-trainees, physicians, and laypeople in British Columbia, Canada. Designed to assist these groups in understanding the nature, history, and treatment of the disease,…

The second language learning methods of Southern Baptist missionaries in Zambia are described. Instead of studying the new language in a school setting, the student receives a week of orientation and is then placed in the community and expected to practice communicating with the native speakers at every opportunity. The student follows a course…

Discusses how the John Paul II Cultural Center is an example of how Catholic educators have begun taking advantage of new teaching resources to help students understand their personal faith. Center contains hands-on and interactive journey to learning about Catholicism and the faiths of other people. (MZ)