Animated models explicating how a problem is solved and why a particular method is chosen are expected to be effective learning tools for novices, especially when abstract cognitive processes or concepts are involved. Cognitive load theory was used to investigate how learners could be stimulated to engage in genuine learning activities. It was…

Animated models explicate the procedure to solve a problem, as well as the rationale behind this procedure. For abstract cognitive processes, animations might be beneficial, especially when a supportive pedagogical agent provides explanations. This article argues that animated models can be an effective instructional method, provided that they are…

Low (conjunctive), medium (disjunctive), and high (biconditional) level concept attainment problems were used to assess whether high level versus low and/or medium difficulty concept rules yield less positive transfer for observers than models. Direct learning and transfer of models was compared with vicarious learning and transfer of observers.…

Studied were the effects on observational concept learning of the experimenter as his own model, versus the experimenter plus a separate model, versus a nonmodeling (control) procedure, as well as the provision of favorable versus neutral outcome-expectation. (Authors/CB)

This investigation examined the effect of model similarity on girls' acquisition, retention, transfer, and transfer strategies of a novel motor task. Forty girls (mean age = 10 years) were randomly assigned to conditions in a 2 (model skill level) 3 2 (model sex) factorial design using four treatment groups: (a) male skilled, (b) male learning,…