Examines congruence between science content structure of instructional materials and students' structural representations before and after science instruction. Eighth-grade science students (N=30) were given concept-structuring tasks before and after studying instructional materials to assess changes in student structural representations.…

Five methods for analyzing data from pretest-post-test research designs are discussed. Analysis of gain scores, with pretests as a covariate, is indicated as a superior method when the assumptions underlying covariance analysis are met. (Author/GDC)

At Texas A&M University, a diagnostic pretesting system has been developed for use in the Freshman Biology Program. The system provides a profile of student competency levels for students, instructors, and the course coordinator that indicates where the curriculum of methods needs to be altered, and identifies students who need remedial help.…

Studies concerning the impacts of electronic calculators on mathematics-related achievement and attitudes were reviewed. Results showed support for the computational benefits due to calculator use, but support for conceptual benefits was minimal. Hypothesized changes in general attitudes toward mathematics for those using calculators was…

Whether text comprehension strategies could be taught to children with poor decoding and reading skills was studied with 428 fourth graders (poor readers) and 167 students from schools for the learning disabled. Clear benefits of training were apparent at posttesting, but maintenance test performance did not show prolonged benefits, suggesting a…

Describes a study that examined potential predictor variables and their relationship to computer aversion among preservice teachers. It was hypothesized that prior experience, ownership of a personal computer, and critical thinking ability would be negatively related to computer aversion, and that an introductory computer literacy course would…

A study assessed the effectiveness of a satellite training program developed for the United States Postal Service and compared it with traditional classroom training for the same courses. Results show slight but statistically significant differences between the two methods of instruction for learning job-related skills. (Author/LRW)

This aptitude-treatment interaction (ATI) study was designed to clarify the relationship between the aptitude variable spatial visualization and two modes of presentation of linear absolute-value inequalities. The modes of presentation include computer-enhanced instruction (CEI) and traditional. (Author/KR)

Discussion of interaction in computer-based tutorials (CBT) focuses on a study that compared the performance of adult learners from training with three CBTs that varied the level of interactivity. The degrees of learner control, system control, and domain control are discussed, and the Lotus spreadsheet tutorials used are described. (24…

Describes study of high school students that was designed to determine the relative effectiveness of color, graphics, and animation in computer assisted learning (CAL) of a mathematical rule. Three CAL modes, in color and in black and white, are compared; pretests and posttests are explained; and further research needs are suggested. (13…

Describes a microcomputer-based procedure that used a digitized graphics tablet to teach letter formation skills to moderately and severely retarded students aged 8-19. Handwriting instruction is discussed; modeling of the letters, corrective feedback, and reinforcement techniques are explained; and results of pretests and posttests are…

Presents a theoretical rationale for the idea that computer programs simulating written conversation, and using natural language, could be effective in language teaching and remediation, and reports empirical studies of its potential. Studies with 10- to 14-year-old language-impaired children are described, software is explained, and future…

Describes study that was designed to determine the feasibility of using computer simulations as realistic training for undergraduate education students learning behavior management techniques in educational psychology courses. Treatments for the control and experimental groups are described, including extended instruction and group problem…

Uses a post-test-only control group study to evaluate the effect of three different types of simulation games used to teach traffic safety to kindergarten students. Results suggest that games including role-playing/group dynamics and modeling/training can change attitudes and modify behavior with this age group. (FMW)

Describes study that examined text density levels as a design variable in print and computer-based instructional presentations. The six treatment groups are explained, including low density, high density, and learner controlled density; attitude surveys and achievement posttests are described; and implications of the findings for instructional…