By the increase of e-learning platforms, huge data sets are made from different kinds of the collected traces. These traces differ from one learner to another according to their characteristics (learning styles, preferences, performed actions, etc.). Learners' traces are very heterogeneous and voluminous, so their treatments and exploitations are…

In recent years there has been a proliferation of research findings on CSCL at the micro and macro levels, but few compelling examples of how CSCL research has impacted actual classroom practices at the meso-level have emerged. This paper critically examines the impact of adopting a systemic approach to innovative education reforms at the macro,…

This study examines the interactions between problem solving and conceptual change in an elementary science class where students build system dynamic models as a form of problem representations. Through mostly qualitative findings, we illustrate the interplay of three emerging intervening conditions (epistemological belief, structural knowledge…

Artificial intelligence research on creative design has led to Structure-Behavior-Function (SBF) models that emphasize functions as abstractions for organizing understanding of physical systems. Empirical studies on understanding complex systems suggest that novice understanding is shallow, typically focusing on their visible structures and…

This paper presents a new laboratory-based module for embedded systems teaching, which addresses the current lack of consideration for the link between hardware development, software implementation, course content and student evaluation in a laboratory environment. The course introduces second year undergraduate students to the interface between…

Technology implementation research indicates that teachers' beliefs and knowledge, as well as a host of institutional factors, can influence technology integration. Drawing on third-generation activity theory, this article conceptualizes technology implementation as a network of planning and integration activities carried out by technology…

This study aims to be a contribution to a theoretical model that explains the effectiveness of the learning and decision-making processes by means of a feedback and mental models perspective. With appropriate mental models, managers should be able to improve their capacity to deal with dynamically complex contexts, in order to achieve long-term…

This article describes challenges and benefits of modeling learner variability in Computer-Assisted Language Learning. We discuss the learner model of "E-Tutor," a learner model that addresses learner variability by focusing on certain aspects and/or features of the learner's interlanguage. Moreover, we introduce the concept of phrase descriptors,…

As the demand for online education continues to increase, institutions are faced with developing process models for efficient, high-quality online course development. This paper describes a systems, team-based, approach that centers on an online instructional design theory ("Active Mastery Learning") implemented at Colorado State…

The systems approach involves defining the system, analyzing the context setting criteria, designing and choosing alternatives using prediction models. The approach can be applied to training (a conceptual model is presented) but further research is needed to develop predictive models. Instructional technology is becoming a reality in the forms of…

Curriculum designers have derived data for instructional purposes from 1) the subject matter, 2) society, and 3) the learner. The computer plays an instrumental role in individualizing the presentation of curriculum derived from these sources. Research on instruction has concerned itself with devising material for individual needs and adapting…

A look at the Air Force Advanced Instructional System (AIS), which is a proposed computer-based multimedia system for the administration and management of individualized technical training on a large scale. (Author)

A study was made to determine the feasibility, infeasibility, or deferred feasibility of adapting a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) system to an existing non-automated program for providing keyboard experiences to elementary school children. A systematic task-by-task approach was adopted for the study: learning objectives were assessed, the…

Presents eight responses to an article in a previous issue by Mitchell, "The Future of Educational Technology Is Past." Highlights include the theory of educational technology, the future of the field of educational technology, cybernetics, educational psychology, systems theory, the role of teachers, control systems, computer assisted…

As a result of a short study of the process by which training systems are improved, it is recommended that the Navy create a training improvement engineering function. This function would have the capability, responsibility and funding to design and implement improved training systems on the basis on need or as a result of new technology, this…