This paper briefly reviews relevant work in four areas: 1) quantitative models of memory; 2) regression models of performance; 3) automation models of performance; and 4) artificial intelligence. (Author/HB)

Discussion of the use of computers in instruction includes the relationship of theory to practice, the interactive nature of computer instruction, an overview of the Keller Plan, cost considerations, strategy for use of computers in instruction and training, and a look at examination procedure. (RAO)

Research on the characteristics of effective computer-based education (CBE) courseware suggests that content structure and levels of questions presented determine whether the deep cognitive processing requisite for learning takes place. A decision table of types of instructional questions covering Bloom's taxonomy is presented and discussed.…

Reviews several development and research activities that were an out-growth of using cognitive theory to design CAI programs in spelling. A psychological theory of spelling performance was used as the conceptual basis for developing several instructional programs illustrating how a cognitive approach can strengthen lesson design strategies in CAI.…

Investigates the effect of feedback delay in computer-assisted instruction on short- and long-term retention of mathematical material, by college students. Difficulty level of material and original learning are also considered. Results show that a delay in feedback may have a detrimental effect on retention. (Author/JJD)

Compares the effects on the knowledge structure of the learners of using two different Mindtools--semantic networks and rule-based expert systems--for representing the content of a course. Results showed that students in the semantic network class possessed more hierarchical knowledge structures than the other group. (Contains 29 references.) (JLB)

Discusses the relationship of fidelity and learning in computer simulation. Highlights include a review of previous research; a discussion of transfer of learning; a taxonomy for fidelity analysis with four different types of computer-based instructional simulations; and implications for instructional design and research. (41 references)…

Description of computer-based simulations focuses on the instructional functions of simulations and phases in the learning processes that should be activated by educational simulations. Highlights include a general model for simulation design; degree of learner control; complexity of the content; the role of the learner; and motivational…

Describes a study of 36 college juniors at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis to contrast how well students learn new concepts from working with a partner versus working individually on a computer-based lesson. Highlights include types of feedback chosen and an analysis of verbal interactions. (Author/LRW)

Evaluates an axiomatic approach to subject matter structuring in an undergraduate computer course in Italy. A comparison of structured and non-structured courses shows that the structured approach improves the learning process. (Author/JJD)

Discusses constructivist uses of production rule expert systems that may be used to support learning for secondary and higher education. Highlights include locus of control; and objectivist and constructivist applications of expert systems as intelligent tutoring systems, as feedback systems, as personal knowledge representation tools, and for…

Describes a study of Australian undergraduates that investigated the nature of learning experiences and quality of learning achieved when students organized information into a HyperCard program. Differences between the learning strategies of using HyperCard and traditional class tutorial presentations are discussed, and student attitudes are…

Describes study that examined the effects of presentation sequence of examples and example difficulty on undergraduate learning with computer-based instruction. Establishing example difficulty according to a generalization formula versus subject matter experts is discussed, and effects on time on task and the number of examples required are…

Describes study of fourth and fifth grade students which explained the effect of graphics on student motivation in a microcomputer-based spelling drill program. The role of feedback in instruction is discussed, the impact of graphics on computer software is described, and results are analyzed. (4 references) (LRW)

Discussion of hypertext structures focuses on three studies of preservice teachers that assessed the effects of different methods of explicitly mapping expert knowledge structures onto hypertext on the acquisition of structural knowledge. Topics addressed include time on task, semantic networking, cognitive limitations of browsing behavior, and…