Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) is attracting a great deal of attention at present (Stockwell & Sotillo, 2011). However, it is important that teacher and researcher exploitation of technological developments be guided by more than just enthusiasm. "Language Learning & Technology's" commitment to empirical studies is admirable but, for…

This paper argues that making computer games as part of a classroom project can develop a range of new media storytelling, visual design and audience awareness skills. This claim is supported by data from the evaluation of a six week game making project in a state funded primary school in which 11-12 year old learners made their own computer games…

Technology-supported education has become increasingly important and popular. Although it has long been claimed that a technology-enhanced learning environment is often more motivating than its traditional counterpart, not too many inspiring empirical studies have been carried out. In this article, the traditional approach in the motivation…

This paper is a response to "Challenges and Opportunities: Using a science-based video game in secondary school settings" by Rachel Muehrer, Jennifer Jenson, Jeremy Friedberg, and Nicole Husain. The article highlights two critical areas that I argue require more research in the studies of video games in education. The first area focuses on the…

Purpose: Today's technology supports the design of more and more sophisticated interactive learning environments. This paper aims to argue that such design should develop from first principles. Design/methodology/approach: In the paper by first principles is meant: learning theory and principles of course design. These principles are briefly…

Designers of interactive learning environments face the issue of managing the learner's cognitive load, reducing irrelevant sources while optimizing useful sources of load. I propose a conceptual framework aimed at organizing the contributions of the papers presented in this special issue. The framework identifies three main dimensions, namely…

In this rejoinder to Mazoue ("J Comput High Educ," 2012) article, "the deconstructed campus," we react to his arguments regarding the replacement of face-to-face teaching on college campuses with computer-supported approaches, including on-line learning, intelligent cognitive tutors, and open-ended learning environments where, rather than being…

Discusses the role of algorithms in the design of computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Structural and processing characteristics of algorithms are analyzed, instructional algorithms are explained, empirically based design rules are presented, and the use of instructional algorithms in artificial intelligence is described. (44 references) (LRW)

Reviews the historical evolution of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and discusses recent advances in intelligent systems. Intelligent tutoring systems are described from the system designer's and learner's perspectives, and possible future applications are considered. A list of existing intelligent CAI systems is provided. (14 references) (CLB)

Describes projects intended to integrate competitive strategies, develop research skills, increase problem-solving ability, and foster a closer link with the apparel industry: the design of children's wear using computer-aided design technology and a project using the Functional Design Process. (Author/JOW)

Expands on constructivist theories that were discussed in an earlier issue. Highlights include cognitive flexible theory; multiple knowledge representations; prespecification of knowledge; teaching content versus skill; and cognitive flexibility hypertexts (CFHs), including the kinds of knowledge domains for which they should be used and the…

Using the British "Index to Theses", we found forty-seven Ph.D.s relating to second and foreign language learning and/or teaching defended in English universities in 2006. Objective criteria led us to fourteen theses which had investigated both teaching and learning. Over half of these adopted a process-product research design with the…

Discusses how operant conditioning has not brought instructional designers any closer to using feedback effectively in computer assisted instruction they design, defines and describes types of feedback, presents guidelines for effective feedback use, and suggests use of templates to bring instructional design to a sophisticated level of…

Reviews the literature pertaining to the design of the layout of computer text screens as a means of maximizing comprehension in computer-assisted learning. The literature on the design of instructional text is also examined to extrapolate principles that may apply to screen design. (Author/LRW)

Outlines problems faced by software publishers in providing instructionally valid computer assisted instruction. A research design undertaken by Edu-Ware Services, Inc., directed at measuring instructional validity and utility of software offered to institutions and consumers, is described noting tests, evaluation, data submission and reduction,…