Describes a study that was designed to demonstrate the effects of computer-based instruction (CBI) on undergraduates' achievement based on achievement status and mode of presentation. Treatments for experimental and control groups are explained, the alternating treatments design (ATD) methodology is discussed, and the personalized system of…

Defines the functions of windows that are used as visual display techniques in computer software systems, reviews research on the effectiveness of window environments, discusses knowledge structures, and presents principles for designing windowed environments based on research findings and individual differences and screen design research. (10…

Reviews instructional design techniques that are suggested for improving the quality and effectiveness of educational software. Three areas of instructional design are addressed: (1) instructional strategies, including provision, examples and active feedback; (2) screen display, including text style variety; and (3) human factors, including…

Describes a study of university students that investigated the effects of a variable unique to Internet-based learning, namely download delay of instructional materials. Discusses a simulated online teaching tool that measured the effects of download delay of images on test performance, time spent on the material, end-user satisfaction, and…

Discussion of the optimization of the instruction of concepts emphasizes theories of cognitive psychology. The development of instruments to record the mastery of concepts by fifth graders is described, variables of both instruction and learning are discussed, and a field experiment that compared the effectiveness of video directed instruction and…

Presents a meta analysis which examines results of 254 controlled evaluation studies that compared student learning in classes taught with and without computer-based instruction (CBI). Outcome measures are described, statistical analysis and effect size are discussed, and results are reported that show that CBI usually produces positive effects on…

Describes two programs that provided distance tutoring for sixth grade minority students enrolled in the Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow (ACOT) class at an inner-city elementary school. Bulletin board systems (BBSs) and teleconferencing are described, student and tutor attitudes are examined, and guidelines to improve the effectiveness of future…

Summarizes three research studies on text and screen density variables in a computer based instruction (CBI) lesson. The first two studies investigated the effectiveness of low density text on lessons taught in print and CBI modes; the third study examined learner preferences for different screen densities. (43 references) (Author/LRW)

Describes a study that examined the effects of an interactive video computer-aided simulation program on instructing preservice education majors in classroom management issues. Topics include student achievement, class rank, stages of concern, computer anxiety, learning modality, the Classroom Management Achievement Test, and student reactions.…

In an experiment designed to dissociate the effects of instructional approach and system interface on learning in computer-based instruction, 18- to 30-year-old high school graduates with low mathematics ability were tested before and after completing three mathematics practice modules. Found that low ability students may not learn from computers…

Discussion of hypermedia-based instruction focuses on studies of eighth-grade junior high school students that investigated differences in cognitive style during information-seeking behavior and learning, the effect of social context (collaborative versus individual study), and the effects of magnet school students' self-regulation of study time.…

Recent work in small-group computer-based training (CBT) reveals that the approach does not necessarily lead to higher achievement. Many of the studies, however, have methodological weaknesses. If proper guidance and structure can be provided to group members, using small group CBT should lead to higher achievement than individual CBT. (Contains…