While researchers are examining the role of playing games to learn, others are looking at using game design as an instructional tool. However, game-design software may require additional time to train both teachers and students. In this article, the authors discuss the use of Microsoft PowerPoint as a tool for game-design instruction and the…

A human anatomy teacher-scholar is a scholar whose area of expertise includes content knowledge of the anatomical sciences (gross anatomy, histology, embryology, and/or neuroanatomy) and whose research interests and focus are centered in medical educational outcomes. The projects described in this dissertation represent endeavors I engaged in to…

Discusses three issues related to the use of positive and negative examples during instruction: sequence, quality, and quantity of examples. Some possible resolutions based on available research evidence and theoretical work in the field are suggested. Twenty-eight references are listed. (Author/LLS)

Provides a summary of research on the benefits and uses of subject-matter-related humor in instructional materials, and cites comments of five experts on how to use humor in the design of instruction. Thirteen references are listed. (MER)

A look at how mathematics for life insurance courses is currently being used in a nontraditional college environment. (Author/HB)

A description of the systems approach to designing of carrel experiences for science students is presented to provide a logical sequence and structure for instructional decisions. A brief historical discussion dating from 1961 and Postlethwait's work at Purdue University is given, and a rationale for the carrel approach is provided. The…

An overview of the research and design process that led to the creation of the Bank Street word processing program for children is reported. The decision to create a word processor for the classroom was based on the findings that commercially available programs took too long to learn, required the memorization of too many commands or rules, had…

This review of the research on the effectiveness of an instructional systems approach at both the micro- and macro-levels discusses progress made in the last decade in developing a knowledge base for the systematic design, development, and delivery of instruction. A 35-item bibliography is provided. (MER)

Describes examples of outstanding videodiscs, summarizes evidence on effectiveness of videodisc as a teaching tool, and discusses factors associated with design of effective videodisc for instruction. Such factors include interactivity, visual design, organization, active participation, metaphors and models, personality, and a team approach. (MBR)

This paper reviews an earlier study examining the variables affecting the success of distance learning programs. In 1995, Dr. Ellen Wagner developed a list identifying the following 16 variables which need to be considered if a distance learning program is to be successful: needs assessment; audience analysis; instructional design; course…

Litton Industries has been investigating methods for analyzing training problems and designing appropriate systems of individualized instruction to address those problems. This work can be referred to as the development of the Instructional Systems Analysis and Selection (ISAS) procedures. ISAS is a collection of questions, comparison matrices,…

A developmental project created and field tested a computer-assisted instructional (CAI) unit in dental diagnosis. The main objectives were to determine 1) if, after having received CAI, the dental student could determine whether a patient had a clinical need for space management and 2) if the dental student's attitude toward CAI and space…

Reviews current findings of empirical research on older adult learning, notes key differences in how older adults and young people learn, and suggests strategies that could be used to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of instruction designed for the elderly. (33 references) (Author/LRW)

The past decade has seen great strides in the design of new learning technologies that support learning aligned with standards-based constructivist and inquiry teaching practices. Though there is considerable evidence that these technologies can help students learn when used appropriately, they are rarely employed beyond the small-scale settings…

Explores why "learning" and "object" have been combined in the field of instructional technology. Examines why current definitions of these terms are lacking when looked at from a standards and interoperability point of view. Suggests a new definition with a rationale to satisfy needs of technologists for precise, practical…