This paper was triggered by the confusion in learning institutions where most teachers and their students cannot distinguish between curriculum and syllabus. In a preliminary informal discussion with seven seasoned teachers and five pre-service student teachers at one of the secondary schools in Masvingo Rural the writers established that most…

This paper examines the role of learner motivation--elements that arouse, sustain, and direct behavior--as the pivotal factor in education, and urges researchers to consider the motivational state of the individual learner in interaction with the instructional method. It is emphasized that a thorough understanding of the learner's personality, as…

Continues an earlier paper which dealt with the basic concepts concerning the learning process that should be used as a starting point for the instructional design process. Instructional decisions that should be taken at the macro design level are discussed. Twenty-five references are listed. (LLS)

Examines the need for integrating assumptions about learning processes with the decisions typically made when designing instructional systems. The relationships between learning theory and instructional design are discussed, and suggestions offered for improving the design process. Extensive references are included. (Author/BK)

Reviews current research on different learning styles and capabilities of experts and novices which may guide software design: memory, cognitive processing, and performance differences; automatization, and coping strategies. Procedures which may enhance expert and novice performance when built into software are outlined. (MBR)

Describes a taxonomy of computer user modes in distance education and identifies three major learning and behavioral processes that are extended by computers: (1) information processing; (2) interaction; and (3) communication. Highlights for each process include the relationship to other media, pedagogical functions, hardware and software, and…

This discussion of distance education needs from the point of view of the adult student focuses on learner needs. It is suggested that these needs will be met through improvement in program design procedures, increased student support through advising and guidance, and greater cooperation between existing educational agencies. (LRW)

Explores some recent theory and research developments on the role and character of television, and its impact on learning in distance education. The implications for learning of distributional and social, control, and symbolic (audiovisual) characteristics of television are discussed. Fifteen references and an outline of television applications…

To investigate the effectiveness of three variables in machine mediated small-group instruction, a three-year study is being conducted with 90 undergraduate and graduate students divided into groups of 15. Forms of media presentation, levels of learning and forms of feedback are varied among the groups, and their interactive as well as independent…

To determine whether student achievement could be improved by matching cognitive style to instructional mode, a study was undertaken with 184 high school sophomores and juniors. Students were tested for reading and listening ability and preference and assigned to instruction based on reading and audio presentations. Ability was also tested.…