Psychological testing can serve as a prototype on which to base a data-generated approach to instructional design. In "testing batteries" tests are used to predict achievement. In the proposed approach batteries of prescriptions would be used to produce achievement. In creating "test batteries" tests are selected for their…

Surprisingly few empirical studies address how computational thinking works "in the wild" or how games and simulations can support developing computational thinking skills. In this article, the authors report results from a study of computational thinking (CT) as evinced through player discussions around the collaborative board game…

This design case (Boling, 2010) includes the challenges, considerations, and decisions associated with the design and development of a learning space/place (Dourish, 2006; Harrison & Dourish, 1996) focused on innovative, creative, and imaginative ways to transform teaching and learning with technology. The T.E.C.H. Playground in the College of…

Data-informed instructional methods offer tremendous promise for increasing the effectiveness of teaching, learning, and schooling. Yet-to-be-developed data science approaches have the potential to dramatically advance instruction for every student and to enhance learning for people of all ages. Next steps that emerged from a recent National…

Learning technologies are now commonplace in education, and generate large volumes of educational data. Scholars have argued that analytics can and should be employed to optimize learning and learning environments. This article explores what is really meant by "analytics", describes the current best-known examples of institutional…

A recent literature review by Smith and Boling (2009) critically examines the received view of instructional design in educational technology. Smith and Boling conclude that the foundational literature characterizes design in a way that leads to a constrained understanding of design, especially by novices. They suggest that as a field we move…

Design, including instructional design, is one of most complex and ill-structured kinds of problem solving. Historically, instructional design has been conceptualized as a linear set of phases (e.g., analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation) that a designer progresses through. Silber (2007) has provided an alternative perspective…

The authors describe the steps in the ethical decision-making process and show how employers and educators are addressing ethical gray areas using innovative simulations in order to better prepare employees and other personnel to face ethical challenges head-on. The model outlined in this article can be used as a teaching and training tool to…

Author believes that the application of the Decision-Making Model to the removal of "discrepancies" allows the teachers and other school agents to proceed with changes in an orderly and rational manner. (Author)

A brief look at Planning-Programing-Budgeting Systems, which are sound principles of decision-making and problem-solving, with illustrations of their application to persons serving in various roles throughout the school system. (Author/HB)

A discussion of the Flexible Grading System, whereby the student decides, within certain restrictions, what relative weighting is to be placed on each of his examinations. (Author)

The model outlined here described sociological, political, economic and educational interactions in an urban school system in order to describe how the system is performing and might be amenable to change and reform." (Author)

Basic to the viewpoint developed in this article is the belief that educators are committed to advancing their insights into creative and effective planning processes. Educators, committed to the process of problem-solving, can then advance knowledge and redesign educational environments. (Author/HB)