Explores the utility of mental models as learning outcomes in using complex and situated learning environments. Describes two studies: one aimed at eliciting mental models in the heads of novice refrigeration technicians, and the other an ethnographic study eliciting knowledge and models within the community of experienced refrigeration…

Outlines why organizations need to learn. Discusses communication embedded in the following: the preconditions for becoming a learning organization, the indicators that a firm is a learning organization, and the disciplines necessary to maintain learning in organizations. Presents an organizational case study of an organization that used…

This study of 90 kindergarten children examined gender differences in learning interest from different designs of multimedia interfaces. Results indicate a significant difference between boys and girls in the influence of the design of interactive multimedia stories on time on task and on level of satisfaction with the interfaces. (Author/LRW)

Although neuroscience has much to offer teaching and learning conceptualizations, educators must be cautious about applying lab research to classrooms. Brain research seems hazy, confusing, and contradictory because it is new. Myths about synapses, low-stress learning, memorization, enrichment, and learning styles are debunked. (MLH)

Striving to meet a diverse community's learning needs, the Federal Way (Washington) Public Schools leverages technology to help students acquire world-class skills while reaching to achieve grade-level standards. A laptop-based learning program and a statewide Internet academy give students new learning options. (MLH)

Reports on controversy surrounding Portland (Oregon) State University's nationally renowned, interdisciplinary general education program. Critics feel the four-year curriculum, which focuses on learning processes rather than content, has resulted in a watered-down curriculum that doesn't teach enough writing, math, literature, science, art, and…

Discusses agent technology within educational settings and describes two information systems, SMILE (Solution, Mapping, Intelligent, Learning, Environment) and AIMS (Agent based Information Management System) that use concept mapping to address issues including adaptive learner support, problem solving, information navigation, information…

Discusses the practices of three teacher educators--what they know about teaching teachers to be learners and instructors of literacy. (PA)

Describes development of CD-ROM and print materials designed for learners with low literacy levels. Explains the importance of group work, incorporation of different learning styles, and the benefits of flexible delivery. (SK)

Describes action research conducted at two universities in the United Kingdom to discover how students learn in different disciplines. Results of questionnaires and focus group interviews are presented that discuss how learning takes place; different learning outcome demands of different disciplines; and differences in knowledge structures,…

Discussion of the integration of educational technology focuses on Internet integration in classrooms and its effect on students' learning and teacher-student relationships. Describes results of a study of Internet use among undergraduates, including positive and negative influences on student learning and the effects of Internet use on classroom…

Effective grading practices grow from a teaching/learning philosophy that respects student differences and reflects individual growth. To help individual students succeed, teachers must grasp the curricular landscape, figure out what students know and care about, and design powerful learning experiences to guide them through the next learning…

Investigated degree to which two shape dimensions were represented categorically by children and adults when learning object names. Found that adults accepted names more often to objects that fell within proposed shape boundaries than to objects that crossed boundaries. Children were just as likely to generalize names to novel objects that fell…

Explores the theoretical underpinnings relating to self-regulated learning and considers how classrooms can be structured as self-regulated learning environments. Topics include assumptions about learners and learning processes; design principles; and components of self-regulated learning environments, including learners, teachers, learning tasks…

Introduces a role playing activity that actively engages students in the learning process of mitosis. Students play either chromosomes carrying information, or cells in the cell membrane. (Contains 11 references.) (Author/YDS)