The effects of 2 different kinds of descriptive models (metaphor and flow chart) on the learning of a computer command language were studied for 37 computer experienced and 47 nonexperienced undergraduates (57 females and 27 males). Results show that metaphor improves performance of most subjects on most transfer items, with inexperienced subjects…

A long-term instructional experiment involving 45 third graders learning LOGO demonstrated that LOGO fulfills some of its early promise when used in carefully crafted educational contexts. There was little evidence of boosting general problem-solving skills as a result of learning programing, but learning geometry appeared enhanced. (SLD)

Whether software-based mediated instruction reduces the incidence of misconceptions and errors by children learning the LOGO computer language was studied with 24 fourth and 46 second graders. Mediated instruction reduced errors and misconceptions compared to those detected in prior studies. The roles of working memory and true misunderstandings…