Medical education research is becoming increasingly concerned with the value (defined as "educational outcomes per dollar spent") of different teaching approaches. However, the financial costs of various approaches to teaching anatomy are under-researched, making evidence-based comparisons of the value of different teaching approaches…

Background/Context: Despite the surge in efficacy studies, a recent meta-analysis indicates that the relative effectiveness of any two math interventions is largely unknown (Nelson & McMaster, 2019). Additionally, policy makers rarely choose educational programs based on an assessment of costs and cost-effectiveness (Hollands et al., 2016;…

In an ongoing study, RAND researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of Carnegie Learning's Cognitive Tutor Algebra I (CTAI) curriculum, a technology-based curriculum that combines classroom instruction with individualized instruction by a computer-based tutor. While the effectiveness of the curriculum in raising student achievement is the main…

Digital games have the potential to create active and engaging environments for learning, supporting problem-solving, communication and group activities, as well as providing a forum for practice and learning through failure. The use of game techniques such as gradually increasing levels of difficulty and contextual feedback support learning, and…

Increasing the effectiveness of e-learning has become one of the most practically and theoretically important issues within both educational engineering and information system fields. The development of information technologies has contributed to growth in online training as an important education method. The online training environment enables…

There is intense interest in computer games. A total of 65 percent of all American households play computer games, and sales of such games increased 22.9 percent last year. The average amount of game playing time was found to be 13.2 hours per week. The popularity and market success of games is evident from both the increased earnings from games,…

Cost estimates for computer assisted instruction depend on the assumptions made about the components of the system to be included in the costs, the expected lifetime of the system and courseware, and the anticipated student utilization of the system/courseware. The cost estimates of three operating systems are examined. (Author/IRT)

Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) has not been cost-effective, despite its instructional effectiveness. This financial failure can be attributed to many factors, including: oversell of CAI capabilities, poorly authored content, expensive and unreliable hardware, an educational bureaucracy resistant to innovation, and the decentralized nature of…

The considerable expense of computer hardware and computer language complexities are limitations to the use of computer assisted instruction in higher education. The use of microcomputer systems is suggested as an alternative. Advantages, limitations and a recommended system are discussed. (JMD)

Initiated in 1959, Project PLATO has attempted to identify and promote technical innovations that improve computer based education and make it economically viable. Three successive systems (PLATO I, II, and III) displayed the potential of the computer to deliver high quality instruction, including programs emphasizing student autonomy and…

Problems of cost stall substantial implementation of computer-assisted instruction, (CAI) particularly for dispersed populations. This paper examines the problems inherent in providing CAI to scattered groups so that accurate estimates of the costs of different technologies (including satellites) which could deliver CAI to dispersed populations…

Offers a definition of electronic performance support systems (EPSS) which is evolving to a systems approach. Highlights include strategic issues, including improved quality, retention of corporate knowledge, and responsiveness to business change; and cost factors, including increased productivity, reduced training costs, and development costs.…

Discusses economic issues that affect the portability of educational software. Topics discussed include economic reasons for portability, including cost effectiveness; the nature and behavior of educational computer software markets; the role of producers, buyers, and consumers; potential effects of government policies; computer piracy; and…

The attitudes of medical school administrators toward six cost factors relevant to the production of sophisticated clinical programs in schools which offer, expect to offer, or do not expect to offer CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction) were identified and compared. The six cost factors were: (1) authorship, (2) incentives, (3) distribution, (4)…

Examines two key considerations related to the question of whether computer-based training is justified--training objectives, and costs of developing computer-based programs. Questions on training content, skills to be performed by trainees, specific training objectives, development and revision costs, salaries, and cost estimates are presented to…