Examined how task design influences the effectiveness of peer collaboration in facilitating students' conceptual change in physics. Subjects were 8- to 12-year olds studying heating and cooling. Results showed the general superiority of collaborative tasks that both facilitate critical testing and require rules; task designs deploying one feature…

Identified factors associated with learning mathematics in groups with computers. Subjects were 8 groups of 6 students, ages 9 to 12 years, using LOGO. Analysis of learning measures indicated positive gains resulting from groupwork, with no differences across gender or ability; analysis of process factors pointed to explanations for the differing…

An epistemological questionnaire assessing students' beliefs in fixed ability to learn, simple knowledge, quick learning, and certain knowledge was administered to 288 high school students (of which 72 were gifted). Differences were found between gifted and nongifted students at the end of high school and between males and females. (Author/DB)

Perspectives on reality monitoring and sociocultural learning were integrated in four studies of children's memory of contributions to the outcomes of collaborative exchanges. Findings suggested that reality-monitoring judgments reflect at least two cognitive processes, appropriation and attention to source of information, and may provide clues to…

Considers new roles for information technology in educational transformation. Topics discussed include the rise of digital information; school restructuring and outcome-based education; changing the role of teachers; changing what and how students learn; and changing the management of student assessment. (LRW)

Examines the long-term implementation of learning cycle science curricula introduced in National Science Foundation sponsored institutes delivered in 1985, 1987, and 1988. (LZ)

According to futurist/educational technology expert Chris Dede, new technologies will revolutionize education only when used to support new models of teaching and learning. Grafting technological solutions onto antiquated structures and learning approaches is misguided. Sidebars explain schools' technology access problems and review Clifford…

Presents 12 principles for "brain-based" learning that can serve as guidelines for defining and selecting instructional programs and methodologies. Discussion includes implications for education, suggestions for teaching information literacy skills, individual differences in the learning process, and the use of multimedia technologies. (AEF)

Describes the use of simulation games in cross-cultural training, noting that participants in these programs are usually adults. Highlights include a history of cross-cultural training; diversity training; learning processes; motivation; practice; shared experience; examples of simulation games used for cross-cultural training; and trainers who…

Reports a study that examined how preschoolers interacted while learning fundamental motor skills. Researchers observed children over a six-month period during their daily motor skills program and found gender differences in the way children interacted in that context. Girls and boys learned from different types of interaction among themselves.…

Examines how problem solving in the domain of Mendelian genetics proceeds in situations where solvers' mental models are insufficient to solve problems at hand (model-revising problem solving). The study addressed the heuristics characteristic of successful model-revising problem solving and other aspects of student model use. (LZ)

Describes an artificially intelligent multimedia computerized instruction system capable of developing a conceptual image of what a student is learning while the student is learning it. It focuses on principles of learning and adaptive behavioral control systems theory upon which the system is designed and demonstrates multiple user modes.…

Reviews the literature on the relation between early memory development and corresponding changes in brain development of infants. Finds that an adult-like form of explicit memory emerges between 8 and 12 months of age, drawing heavily on limbic and cortical structures. Offers theoretical perspectives for studying the ontogeny of memory. (JW)

In an authentic learning setting, technology has the power to support students and teachers in obtaining, organizing, manipulating, and displaying information. According to an Office of Educational Research and Improvement case study, reformed classrooms begin with an authentic, challenging task; have all students practice advanced skills; and…

The performance of a 3-year-old with Rett Syndrome in a Contingency Intervention Program using head and hand switches and adapted toys was assessed over 18 months. Learning contingent control of the stimuli positively motivated the child, promoted attention to toys and objects, and generalized to the classroom. (SW)