Examines how well students remember information presented through computer-assisted instruction as a function of a self-reference strategy. Memory test scores and student confidence levels were significantly higher for self-reference students. Confidence level had a relatively high correlation with the total memory test score. Amount of time spent…

Notes that with evidence suggesting self-efficacy is correlated with writing performance, this study focuses on identifying other variables related to self-efficacy. Concludes that such information proves useful because it may help instructors gain a better understanding of their students' performance throughout the semester and may better explain…

Asserts that the field of discourse processing offers some solutions to the challenge of promoting deep comprehension during learning. Sketches the salient components of discourse processing mechanisms and points out how such mechanisms can be recruited to improve deep comprehension. (EV)

This study explored the contribution of two working memory (WM) systems to reading performance in younger and older children. Results showed significant age-related differences in verbal and visual-spatial WM performance were maintained when articulation speed and short-term memory were partialed from the analysis and that WM predicted age-related…

Argues that diagram interpretation is largely text-dependent and is also dependent upon the use of particular diagram-processing skills which may be very difficult to develop. Discusses some interpretation difficulties and advances strategies to help teachers make more effective use of diagrams. (Contains 20 references.) (Author/WRM)

Outlines the approach of a study that aimed to observe young children as they constructed meanings for randomness in computer-based setting. Provides a snapshot of two children working with the tools made available in that setting. Uses this picture to begin the formulation of a theoretical framework for the construction of meaning in one…

Examines how computer labs in elementary schools should be designed to create an information-rich environment that lets students easily interact while learning new skills. Stresses computer lab designs that result in flexible multiple-purpose spaces that encourage students to collaborate. (GR)

Presents a case study that examined communication patterns, participation, the epistemological character of interactions, knowledge construction, and learning processes of college students who used two forms of computer mediated communication to discuss class topics: an asynchronous electronic bulletin board, and a synchronous text chat…

Problems encountered in teaching function in introductory math for social science majors were solved using a learning cycle approach for the construction of math knowledge. Teaching strategies were directed at two goals: motivating and developing through modeling and applying and evaluating through instrumentation. (SK)

This qualitative case study focused on the nature of science learning through open-ended problem solving with eighth graders. Discusses results of interviews and observation that suggested students only partially derived accurate mental models, and makes recommendations for improving student understanding in open-ended environments. (Contains 95…

Introduces a "cafeteria-style" grading (CSG) approach in science instruction which allows students to decide on the course components and their weight in evaluation. Considers student success, motivation, and self-awareness for the evaluation of CSG. Uses portfolios, writing assignments, web page development, and traditional evaluation methods for…

Discusses the use of portfolios to evaluate student work, evaluates a Web-based learning portfolio, analyzes its impact on students' learning processes, reports on the validity and reliability of the questionnaire used in the evaluation study, proposes suggestions for revisions, and recommends future research. (LRW)

Calibration concerns (a) the deviation of a person's judgment from fact, introducing notions of bias and accuracy; and metric issues regarding (b) the validity of cues' contributions to judgments and (c) the grain size of cues. Miscalibration hinders self-regulated learning (SRL). Considering calibration in the context of Winne and Hadwin's…

Schools are currently receiving increased funds for multimedia software for classrooms. There is a need for good software in the schools, and there is a need to know how to evaluate software and not naively rely on advertisements. Evaluators of multimedia software for education must have the skills to critically evaluate and make decisions not…

This article discusses the relation between narrating a story and experiencing a learning process--for both the research subjects and the researcher--as an inherent feature of narrative biographical research. It is argued that in order to do justice to the particularity, the interpretation and the agency of the research subjects and thus to the…