Educators have long sought for ways to improve student learning. With the introduction of technology to the instructional setting, possibilities for finding new strategies to improve learning have been, and continue to be, explored. To make the leap to student-centered, technologically-mediated instruction requires exploration of both change in…

Focuses on learner verification and revision (LVR), a systems approach to the evaluation of instructional materials in which materials are tested with students. Using this method to adapt internationally available materials to local needs is discussed. A flow chart of the LVR adaptation process and 31 references are included. (JJD)

The development, content, and implementation of a space model at the University of Minnesota are detailed. Its objectives were to (1) obtain a management tool for assessing current space utilization and projecting facility needs; (2) assess quality of existing facilities; and (3) identify and assimilate the university's unique space needs.…

Sedimentary patterns and hydraulic effects can be studies in model streams which are not to scale. The "Western River" is such a model which is being used effectively at Western Carolina College. Construction of the model, student exercises, and observations made when using the model are discussed. (Author/JN)

A comparative design for the evaluation of educational programs employing both quantitative and qualitative methods gathers information about program characteristics and consequences. The dual-track design provides separate results that are compared and produce a complete evaluation effort. (Author/CM)

Presents a theoretical and practical exploration of issues in teaching psychology of women. The eight articles in this special issue deal with the faculty, issues, courses, teaching methods and resources in the field, values and tensions in teaching psychology of women, related research, and the women's movement. (JAC)

Three treatments based on the model of memory proposed by R.M. Gagne and R.T. White were compared in their effects on eighth- and ninth-graders' learning and retention of geographical facts and skills. The first treatment had an active excursion, the second had a passive excursion, and the third had no excursion. (Author/PN)

Suggests an eight-step approach to student teacher observations to increase students' professional growth including simulation, peer-reaction, video review, practice teaching, audio review, real teaching, tape review, and post-observation conference. (RC)

Describes a humanistic approach to in-service education called colearning, where participants are actively involved in the learning process. Colearning suggests that designers of adult learning experiences consider the relationship between adult development, life events, and resulting changes in learning patterns. Describes use of the concept in…

Describes a short-term group counseling approach to use with physically disabled clients that combines assertion-training with attitude clarification and information approaches. Discusses rationale for the program and describes the coping skills group model. Details purposes and activities for each of 10 sessions. (RC)

Argues for a scientific philosophy that views theory not as absolute truth but as a model that attempts to explain reality and promote inquiry. Proposes that science teachers build upon students' existing knowledge by first presenting simple, less accurate but more comprehensive models and later discussing the weaknesses. (DC)

Describes the initial evaluation phase of family therapy, which clarifies the circular interaction maintaining the symptom, the family structure, and its relationship to the therapist. Suggests using first sessions to collect data and organize it meaningfully. Presents phenomenological and mythical models of family functioning as guides for…

Stressing the importance of systematic planning for field experiences in teacher education, the authors outline the appropriate functions and instructional modes of the school-based component of teacher training. They present a matrix design for integrating the functions and modes of university-based and school-based instruction. (SJL)

The need for social work professionals to remain current is addressed. The study, using a panel of 121 social workers and others, achieved a level of consensus relative to theories, methodologies, and content areas and then projected a functional model useful for intermediate and long-range program planning. (Author/MLW)

Reports on research into the pedagogical uses of Andrew Wilkinson's writing evaluation instrument. Shows how Wilkinson's scale of cognitive development can be used both to classify writing students and to suggest strategies for helping students mature as writers. (RL)