Four types of fundamental structures are briefly described and illustrated: the learning hierarchy, the procedural hierarchy, the taxonomy, and the model. Then a theoretical framework is presented for classifying types of subject matter content, and some implications of these content classifications are discussed. (VT)

Discusses the current information processing conceptualization of memory, the process of learning by analogy, and the overall desired outcomes of their use to acquire and retain new information. Instructional implications of how to use analogies are discussed, and a set of prescriptive guidelines for using them is presented. (69 references)…

Explains three worlds of instructional design: the world of knowledge, including knowledge structures and instructional strategies; the world of learning, including learning processes; and the world of work, focusing on real life task performance. Discusses implications for future research, stressing the promise of mental models as a theoretical…

A synthesis is presented of the various rationales which predict the facilitative influence of instructional objectives on learning and retention. (Author)

Describes BACEIS (Behavior, Attitudes, Cognition, Environment viewed as Interactive Systems), a comprehensive theoretical model that includes internal and external factors affecting the development, retention, and transfer of thinking and learning skills. Uses of the model in instructional design, to guide research, and to critique existing…

Discusses the use of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) for foreign language instruction, and describes the development of a Foreign Language Instructional Design Environment (FL-IDE) that uses hypertext to organize the domain knowledge structure. The development of the original IDE as an intelligent tutoring system is also described. (20…

Examines some of the recent developments in cognitive theory and explores their implications for instructional design. Topics discussed include a shift from emphasis on behavioral theory to cognitive theory; task analysis; instructional objectives; learner characteristics; instructional strategies; metacognition; and the dynamic nature of…

Reports on a study of nursing education at the University of Southern Queensland (Australia) that sought to integrate-computer mediated communication, collaborative learning, and reflection on critical incidences to make the most of learning opportunities confronted by learners and practitioners in situ. Discusses learning and instructional…

Discusses the role of instructional design in the development of learning theory. Topics discussed include the acquisition of knowledge and skills; models of teaching; the teaching and acquisition of concepts; influences on retention; and the integration of procedures, principles, and concepts for solving problems. (20 references) (LRW)

Examines existing research and instructional design theories for guidelines that encourage a deep approach to learning, i.e., meaningful learning, critical thinking, or independent learning. Highlights include sequencing strategies and elaboration theory, linking concepts, student misconceptions, changing the attitudes of teachers, and projects…

Outlines Component Design Theory, which is based on the author's earlier Component Display Theory, and provides the instructional design guidance needed for experiential computer based instructional systems. Highlights include a contrast between tutorial and experiential instructional models, content structures, consistency rules, instructional…

New knowledge is made meaningful by relating it to prior knowledge. Although meaningfulness usually relates new knowledge to prior superordinate knowledge, arbitrarily meaningful knowledge, coordinate, subordinate, and analogic ideas, experiential knowledge, and cognitive strategy also facilitate learning. Optimization of prior knowledge is done…

Describes an instructional model, Strategies Program for Effective Learning/Thinking (SPELT), that was developed to translate cognitive psychological theory and research into a practical instructional program. The extent to which SPELT conforms to current instructional design principles is examined, and macro versus micro instructional sequencing…

Describes a study of undergraduates in the Open University that used qualitative research methods to investigate how students learn with educational television. Results of observations, interviews, and test data are analyzed to determine which program features are important, and the methodology is contrasted with the one used in other studies of…

Examines how different internal learner characteristics (prior knowledge, self efficacy, and interest) and different external constraints (learner control, instructional design, and level of control) influence the learning process. Discusses learning from multimedia environments (video, hypertext, kiosk, and other hypermedia) within a schema…