Optimization procedures for a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) system were developed using iterative development and tests of a series of instructional decision models (IDM). The result was a total systems effort in which the instruction was carried on by a dialogue between a computerized tutor and the student. A profile of the student, student…

This one-semester course of study in psychology for grades 11 and 12 is designed for teachers who are knowledgeable in the field of elementary psychology. The over-all course objective is to improve the student's ability to adjust to an increasingly complex and changing society. Among the teaching techniques suggested are case studies, class…

A system of appraising teachers that is acceptable to the teaching profession, the public, and school management is needed. To meet this need, Project D developed a diagnostic system of appraisal whose aim was to pinpoint areas in which teachers might reasonably be expected to improve their performance. The procedures adopted included the…

The conference intended to stimulate dialogue between psychologists and educators for the purpose of developing "creative propositions" that address the functions of schooling with the most relevant and advanced psychological knowledge. Most broadly, the papers and critiques are concerned with how psychology could be used to improve: (1)…

Invaluable for anyone looking to understand young children's thinking, this essential textbook helpfully combines introductions to theories about thinking with observations from real-life practice. The book explores underlying theories behind topics such as: (1) the relationship between nature and nurture; (2) models of cognitive development, with…

This study researched how the characteristics of higher learning institutions affect the persistence and learning of college students. The author examined the extent to which perceptions of students' academic, personal, and career development and their satisfaction with their educational experiences in the two-year college are related to measures…

This study analyzes examination questions and papers in 12 academic departments and seven faculties at a Kenyan (Africa) state university between the 1989-1990 and the 1994-1995 academic years, charging that the findings reveal impoverished university training. The paper argues that the emphasis in most examinations is on the lower mental skills,…

Provides summaries of 1981 science education research. Categories include cognitive style; Piagetian studies; student characteristics and learning; teaching strategies and learning; teaching use of instructional materials and learning; instructional technology; evaluation (instrumentation and methodology); curriculum research; teacher education;…

Status-based social rules associated with race, gender, and ability were studied for 216 fifth and sixth graders, evenly male and female and white and African American. Questionnaire responses indicate that respondent approval ratings are strongly affected by the status of the target student. (SLD)

Examines the impact of children's attendance at preschool on teaching and learning in 77 low-income Hawaiian families' homes. Data from the families (18 participating in a year-long series of interviews) illustrate the development of 2 parental scripts, 1 for skills used in the home, and 1 for preparation for school. (SLD)

This document presents an annotated listing of articles, conference papers, book chapters, papers, and books published in 1995 as a result of investigations carried on at the University of Pittsburgh's Learning Research and Development Center (LRDC). The publications are organized alphabetically by author and chronologically within each author's…

This document covers approximately 500 publications developed by the University of Pittsburgh's Learning Research and Development Center (LRDC) from 1985 through 1991 and constitutes a record of LRDC's commitment to research that can strengthen educational practice. An abstract is provided for most entries. Each publication summarized addresses…

This collection of nine papers addresses theory and research in higher education. The papers include: (1) "Student Learning at Metropolitan Universities" (George D. Kuh and others); (2) "Applications of Generalizability Theory in Higher Education Assessment Research" (Gary R. Pike); (3) Policy Models and Policy Instruments in…

Patterns of assistance in parent-child dyads were examined by developing measures that could be used to explore the nature of assistance and learner action sequences. A microgenetic approach was adopted in a teaching experiment that may be regarded as a variation of the double stimulation method of L. S. Vygotsky. A second goal was to explore the…

The Metropolitan Educational Trends and Research Outcomes Center conducts Improving Programs of Schools Serving Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Student Populations, a survey to identify programs that have successfully addressed the needs of ethnically, linguistically, and culturally diverse students. This report presents a cross-sites…