Compares outcomes in developmental mathematics classes that used lectures with classes that utilized computer-mediated instruction. Finds that the results showed no significant differences on common exams. States that course satisfaction levels, however, were higher in computer-mediated classes, partly because students wanted greater control over…

This proceedings document focuses on research and program development in developmental education and instruction in mathematics, reading, and writing. Papers are: "Down in the Trenches: Tutors Learning about Learning" (Jace Condravy); "Expanding the Role of Developmental Education in Research Institutions" (Patricia Dwinell and others);…

The first section of this paper notes the tremendous number of approaches to teaching writing, the agreement among experts that writing involves developmental stages specific to each student, and the need for writing programs that challenge individuals at their various levels of development. The paper then describes a newly revised writing course…

This discussion asserts that there is no significant difference between traditional instruction and remedial/developmental instruction in improving the academic achievement of skill-deficient students. Because the cognitive style of each learner reflects how learning tasks are approached and completed, matching strategies are needed that deal with…

The Advanced Studies Program (ASP) at Southeastern Community College (Whiteville, North Carolina) is a developmental studies program that offers freshman courses in English, biology, and psychology to approximately 75 students. Learning activities are individualized and self-paced, and each ASP course has behaviorally stated objectives.…

Presented is an evaluation of a program providing mentally retarded students in two occupational training centers who were two or more years retarded in reading and/or mathematics with individual or small-group instruction supplementing the basic program. It is noted that 110 participants were given 2 hours, 15 minutes a week instructional time by…

One purpose of this paper is to describe how the concept of statewide minimum standards has been used in other states and to suggest precisely how it should be used in New Jersey. Current New Jersey law requires districts to establish pupil proficiency levels in basic skills, to identify children who fall below them, and to provide those children…

Procedures to help prevent academic failure are discussed: (1) peer tutoring; (2) the Adaptive Education Learning Model; (3) Direct Instruction and Behavior Analysis; (4) Strategy Training; and (5) other cognitive behavioral techniques and self-management. Potential barriers to implementing prevention programs are discussed. (SLD)

Successful college instruction programs have two features that are associated with increased grade point averages and retention: (1) they are comprehensive and meet student needs, and (2) they are better institutionalized into the academic mainstream of the college or university. Several program characteristics are crucial to learning improvement,…

The paper reports an attempt to evaluate instructional practices in compensatory education by looking at both costs and effects associated with the practices. The study covered some 300 Chapter l projects over a three-year period, focusing on project settings and instructional approaches used in the projects. Results of the study indicated that…

This journal is intended for teachers of reading on the two-year college level. Articles included in this issue are: "A Competency Based Approach to College Reading Improvement Programs,""Drumming Up Trade for College Reading Programs,""Instructional Techniques for Developmental Reading,""College Reading W.A.R." (on the image of college reading…

Following a literature review on the subjects of the decline in student writing abilities and increased student writing apprehension, this paper offers teachers information on a basic writing program that reduces writing anxiety and improves writing skills through large doses of positive reinforcement. The second section of the paper discusses the…

One of four reports describing the basic skills programs in writing, reading, English as a second language, and mathematics at the City University of New York (CUNY), this volume describes the reading programs--including administrative structure, course structure and content, and faculty--for nine senior colleges and eight community colleges in…

Focusing on helping teachers to understand and help children who have reading disabilities, the 13 papers in this volume were prepared by practitioners at various levels from public school, community, and university settings. The papers included in part one offer insights into the concomitant aspects of reading difficulties. Specific topics…

The traditional method of teaching writing to students in universities by correcting their errors supposes a generally well-developed sense of written language structure and formal English language discourse. The new population seeking higher education does not always possess such a background. An alternative instructional method is to use the…