Describes the development of the VV-BOS (Visualizer/Verbalizer Behavior Observation Scale), a computer-based instrument for direct observation of students' preferences for visual or verbal learning material. Results of a study with second-language learners indicated a high degree of reliability as an alternative to conventional questionnaires.…

Discusses the importance of screen design in computer-based instruction (CBI), and presents a framework for screen design decisions based on the ROPES (Retrieving, Orienting, Presenting, Encoding, and Sequencing) meta-model for instructional design. Psychological, instructional, and technological foundations of screen design are discussed, and…

Discussion of instructional theory and the teaching-learning process focuses on implementation of the Structural Learning Theory. Topics discussed include learner models and approaches to intelligent tutoring; control mechanisms in information processing systems; human cognition; assessing individual knowledge; and designing intelligent tutors.…

Examines the functional characteristics of intelligent computer-assisted instruction (ICAI), proposes a structural model that defines expertise requirements for the development of an ICAI system, and discusses the requirements of a multidisciplinary cooperative effort for its development. Knowledge acquisition, learning needs, and instructional…

Focuses on three students engaged in a group task to develop a concept map on hypermedia-related concepts. Examines how each of the students--grouped together based on their learning style and cognitive control differences--influenced construction of the group concept map. Concludes that the "Assimilator/Field-Independent" student was the most…

Discussion of short-term and long-term memory in learning paired associates focuses on two microcomputer-based instructional design experiments with eleventh and twelfth graders that were modeled after traditional drill and practice routines. Research questions are presented, treatment conditions are explained, and additional research is…

Describes a study of fifth and sixth graders that investigated the effects of cooperative training and ability grouping on microcomputer learning. Results on four measures of achievement did not support the use of cooperative learning or ability grouping to enhance achievement in computer-assisted instruction. (Author/LRW)

Reports on a study that examined different learning strategies used by 63 Field-independent (FI) people and Field-dependent (FD) international college students in a hypermedia assisted language learning setting. Findings that describe the different types of media, tools, and learning aids chosen by FI and FD students are reported. (27 references)…

Formulates decision rules for adapting the appropriate amount of instruction to learning needs in intelligent-tutoring systems. Highlights include minimax decision theory (a minimum information approach), a binomial model, and a comparison of the Bayesian decision component in the Minnesota Adaptive Instructional System and the minimax strategy.…

Describes a study at the University of Leiden (Netherlands) that investigated whether students with different learning styles used different study strategies in a hypertext reading environment, the role of strategy regulation in strategy use, the consistency of strategy use over two different reading tasks, and use of the Inventory of Learning…

Minimalist design principles were used to test whether instructional intervention could decrease computer anxiety of subjects learning basic word-processing skills. Subjects were pre- and posttested on anxiety during each session. Findings indicated that the method as well as increased computer use decreased anxiety. (Author/AEF)

Describes the development of a computer club at an inner city elementary school in Chicago. Discusses the sense of community that grew; parent involvement; scaffold learning; self-control; community service; difficulties in creating a sustainable innovation; and possible future directions. (Contains 11 references.) (LRW)