This paper explores and discusses arguments for the use of virtual environments and interactive avatars in supporting the achievement of student learning goals within conventional educational contexts. It describes and evaluates arguments promoted by some authors (eg, van den Brekel, 2007; Deuchar & Nodder, 2003; Dickey, 2003; Facer, 2004; de…

Evidence suggests that engineering education shares the same needs and objectives as other programs concerned for the career capabilities of their graduates, especially development of liberal arts abilities. Some programs in engineering that have made advances in addressing a broader array of outcomes including the liberal arts categories are…

This study was performed to develop a competency-based professional education sequence (termed "spiral curriculum") which would provide pre-service and in-service training for new vocational instructors hired directly from trade and industry. Specific objectives were (1) to identify a comprehensive list of professional education…

An inservice training program was implemented at the Erie County Technical School in Pennsylvania to familiarize school shop teachers with the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) so they could use it as a tool to develop relevant competency-based vocational education (CBVE) programs. Addressed during the inservice were the following topics:…

This booklet is designed for developing performance and competency-based student materials (PACs). The PAC, an instructional tool that focuses on helping students master a specific objective, lends itself to vocational instruction. The first nine sections of the guide, consisting of information to assist teachers in gathering background materials…