Describes the NETg (National Educational Training Group) approach to instructional design where training products and content are developed to meet clearly defined learning objectives. Illustrates how "instruction" is more than "information." Discusses implications of learning in the Information Age and what is in store for the…

Reviews the evolution of instructional systems design and computer-based learning environments, focusing on the effects of technological advances. Classification of learning environments is discussed in the context of the dimensions of scope (macrolevel or microlevel), user activity (generative or mathemagenic), educational activity (goal-directed…

This paper addresses the concept of blended learning, an approach that has been gaining popularity in recent years with the advancement of computer-mediated training solutions. It begins with an effort to define blended learning and a description of its historical context. A discussion of blended learning as a learner-centric approach follows,…

The purpose of this study is to examine how technology, namely virtual reality (VR), can be developed as a critical pedagogical tool. More specifically, the study explores whether the use of VR can challenge the traditional lecture format and make the classroom a more student-centered environment. In this instance, VR is defined as a set of…

Current issues in educational communications and technology are addressed in this collection of 47 conference papers in which research reports predominate. Topics discussed include factors related to the learner, e.g., learning strategies, information processing, spatial ability, cognitive style, and cognitive strategies. Presentation format and…

Illustrates how computers can assist teachers in preventing impulsivity and foster the cognitive and metacognitive development of students. Discusses theoretical aspects of impulsivity and learning difficulties; software for improving self-regulated learning, in particular the VISPRO (Visualizing Processes) project; and teacher education needs,…

This paper presents a framework and model for design of open-ended learning environments (OELEs). First, an overview is presented that addresses key characteristics of OELEs, including: use of meaningful, complex contexts; provision of tools and resources; learner reflection and self-monitoring; and social, material, or technological scaffolding.…

The introduction of communications and information technologies in the area of education tends to create a totally different environment, which is marked by a change of the teacher's role and a transformation of the basic components that make up the meaning and content of the learning procedure as a whole. It could be said that, despite any…

Describes a software shell, STAR.Legacy, designed to guide attempts to help students learn from case, problem, and project-based learning. STAR.Legacy supports the integration of four types of learning environments: learner-centered, knowledge-centered, assessment-centered, and community-centered. Describes how a STAR.Legacy constructed for an…

The purpose of the research reported in this paper was the development of a learner-centered instructional model for the teaching of reading and writing skills. Specifically, the 14 APA (American Psychological Association) learner-centered principles were used as the conceptual framework for the development of the model. There are seven iterative…

This paper describes the University of Montana's efforts in migrating an undergraduate instructional media course from a traditional stand-and-deliver model to a World Wide Web-based electronic classroom. The rationale is presented, including the background for the decision making move and a description of similarities and differences of both…

This volume contains 57 papers and 1 symposium, consisting of an introduction and 4 papers. The topics discussed range from the instructional effectiveness of various presentation formats and media to the social foundations of educational computing and school restructuring. Cognitive theory and several design theories are also addressed. Research…