Computer-based virtual learning environments (CBVLEs) are potentially useful teaching tools for training nursing students in professional duties such as the mathematical tasks associated with medication processes. In this study, a CBVLE was designed with well-structured instructional activities such as interleaved practice and feedback.…

A range of evidence suggests that changing a person's pattern of behaviour is extremely difficult, with past behaviour being one of the strongest predictors of future behaviour. This is particularly evident in the university setting where students tend to use the same academic processes they have used throughout their schooling despite any…

The Internet has provided postsecondary institutions with many opportunities to offer online courses. The demand for trained instructors to teach online has risen concomitantly. This qualitative study investigated the pedagogical training needs of postsecondary faculty who teach online. Focus groups were used to identify the types of training, the…

A multimedia training concept was developed which aims at reducing misunderstandings and thus avoiding conflicts by fostering a more differentiated understanding of utterances. Based upon the principles of the cognitive apprenticeship approach, a tool--the multimedia learning environment "CaiMan"--presents video sequences of dyadic…

Examines the effectiveness of SIMNET (Simulation Networking), a virtual reality training simulation system, combined with a program of role-playing activities for helping Army classes to master the conditional knowledge needed for successful field performance. The value of active forms of learning for promoting higher order cognitive thinking is…

Describes a method for training technically qualified personnel to become competent instructors for corporate and industrial training programs. The method identifies 24 teacher behaviors that promote effective learning, and a copy of an Instructor Feedback Observation Form which includes these behaviors is provided. (two references) (LAE)

Summarizes recent military simulation and gaming applications, discusses trends that are affecting their use and development, and describes organizations that are involved with military simulations. Highlights include areas of application, including education and training, analysis, mission support, and evaluation; measuring simulation…

Staff development has been the focus of the Southwest Educational Development Laboratory's Rural Small Schools Initiative (RSSI) since it began in 1987. The research literature and RSSI's own survey of staff development practices in southwestern rural schools indicate that current staff development delivery systems are content rich and process…

Two studies evaluating a video-based instructional package for training 12 respite care providers found that performance during simulated situations improved in 5 of 6 skill areas, with no differences whether videotapes were viewed alone, with a partner, or with structured group training. Correct responding was generalized and skills were…

Early childhood intervention service providers (N=242) in Louisiana reported that their inservice training experiences were primarily of a passive nature, and few received support following training. More dynamic training strategies such as teacher modeling, small-group discussions, and opportunities to practice targeted skills were felt to more…

Describes the case study method as a form of simulation and presents guidelines for their use in professional training situations. Skill development in problem solving is highlighted as a reason to use case studies; steps in creating a case are outlined; and the effectiveness of case studies is discussed. (LRW)

This article describes the results of the VIISA Outreach Project, a well-received in-service training model for personnel who work with infants and young children with visual impairments, which has been in existence since 1991 in 23 states. The program combines home study with on-site courses taught by experienced instructors. (Contains 11…

A thesis project was conducted to design, develop, implement, and evaluate a job aid used by shipping department employees in a dental laboratory. The job aid was developed in preference to training to solve the organization's performance problem. Task analysis was performed to identify the shipping clerks' duties. These tasks were stated in the…

Discusses variables that affect the success of distance education programs in elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education or corporate training environments. Topics addressed include needs assessment, audience analysis, instructional design, course selection and reconfiguration, instructional delivery systems, adapting media and other…

Describes a study conducted by the U.S. Navy that compared training effectiveness and user acceptance of live instruction and six different alternative instructional television (ITV) technologies that had differing levels of audio and video communication. The ITV laboratory configuration is explained, and instructor preferences and skills are…