This discussion of the contributions that cognitive psychology can make to the next generation of instructional design methods begins by comparing behaviorally-based and cognitively-based instructional design systems. Some possible improvements in instructional design are then presented, and it is argued that cognition, or student thought…

Discusses the problem of designing educational systems for the aged to maximize their potential for success. Suggests that complex changes in working memory occur with advanced age; by understanding the nature of these changes, educational materials can be designed which properly refresh memory and guide comprehension. (JAC)

Discussion of instructional systems development (ISD) focuses on recent developments in cognitive task analysis and describes the Integrated Task Analysis Model, a framework for integrating cognitive and behavioral task analysis methods within the ISD model. Three components of expertise are analyzed: skills, knowledge, and mental models. (96…

Focusing on the psychological processing of audiovisual materials by learners, this chapter presents and analyzes recent research on human perception, its relation to memory, and how perception is best represented in an information processing model. Topics discussed include pictorial and verbal memory, information system capacity, filtering and…

This review of the current status of the human information processing model presents the Stahl Perceptual Information Processing and Operations Model (SPInPrOM) as a model of how thinking, memory, and the processing of information take place within the individual learner. A related system, the Domain of Cognition, is presented as an alternative to…

In order for educators to plan for thinking skills in the curriculum, what is meant by thinking must first be determined. Drawing from current research, this report provides working definitions of thinking skills and practical models to explain the working relationships among different levels and different kinds of thought processes. These…

Describes an internal thought and control process which underlies an individual's ability to learn and apply specific instructional skills. Piaget's formal operation thought schema is discussed as a means of identifying the components of this process, and implications for instructional development trainers are presented. Sixteen references are…

This paper focuses on how people learn to help educators design curriculum that will enable students to successfully complete a distance learning class. Up-front organization, clear communication about performance expectations, outcome driven assessment, and imaginative learning strategies are critical to successful distance learning.…

Presents a two-phase instructional design model that focuses on optimizing step size in whole-task approaches to learning complex, mainly non-recurrent, cognitive skills. Step size in a multiple-step whole-task approach-needed for the process worksheets-is determined on the basis of estimated part-task complexity. A developmental study of the…

This paper describes the theoretical underpinnings and architecture of a new type of learning environment that incorporates features of microworlds and of intelligent tutoring systems. The environment is based on a progression of increasingly sophisticated causal models that simulate domain phenomena, generate explanations, and serve as student…

This monograph presents commentaries on the book "Dimensions of Thinking: A Framework for Curriculum and Instruction" (which organizes research and theory from several sources into a framework for teaching thinking), by four of its seven authors. The four articles are as follows: "The Development of 'Dimensions of Thinking'"…

Discusses the contributions that cognitive psychology can make to the development of instructional designs and systems. Instructional design models for training and educational applications are described, potentials of cognitive engineering are reviewed, and possibilities for improved instructional design are presented, including objectives, kinds…

This paper presents a model for systematic instructional design that includes mental model analysis together with the procedures used in developing computer-based instructional materials in the area of statistical hypothesis testing. The instructional design model is based on the premise that the objective for learning is to achieve expert-like…

Examines the need for integrating assumptions about learning processes with the decisions typically made when designing instructional systems. The relationships between learning theory and instructional design are discussed, and suggestions offered for improving the design process. Extensive references are included. (Author/BK)

Presents a decision model for planning learner feedback in distance education courses with emphasis on college-level teaching. Knowledge components in information processing models of learning are described, task analysis for learning from text is discussed in terms of comprehension, and criteria for designing learner feedback are examined. (LRW)