This special issue includes four articles that address issues concerning conceptual change. Topics include analogical reasoning and a case study of Johannes Kepler; conceptual change and wine expertise; the role of extreme case reasoning in instruction for conceptual change; and dynamic science assessment: a new approach for investigating…

Explains the origin and goals of cognitive flexibility theory and discusses new directions being explored. Topics include hypermedia systems; multiple knowledge representations; interconnectedness; context-dependency; digital video cases; experience acceleration; and bridging knowledge and practice, cognitive, individualistic practices and…

Describes case-based, problem-based learning (CBPBL), a student-centered approach that uses tightly focused minicases to help students demonstrate their ability to identify their information needs. Topics include the role of the instructor; uses of CBPBL; librarian as facilitator or liaison for a CBPBL session; examples of minicases for library…

Reports on a pilot study conducted to determine whether the benefits of the case study method as a training framework for change initiatives in academic libraries could successfully transfer from traditional instruction to a virtual Web-based format. Presents results of a survey that evaluated the study and showed positive feedback. (Author/LRW)

Explains the evaluation procedure of extended matching multiple-choice questions (EMQs) which are problem-oriented, case-based questions. (Author/YDS)

Use of fictional or "virtual" families in problem-based learning scenarios was assessed by 17 first-year and 14 third-year nursing students. Virtual families enabled longitudinal study of health care and family dynamics, a holistic approach, and integration of learning across the curriculum. (Contains 20 references.) (SK)

Graduate students (n=11) collaborated on a case study using either synchronous voice, asynchronous voice, or synchronous text communication system. Participants kept a log, wrote reflections, and were interviewed. Analysis reveals that each group strategically supplemented the system that had been assigned to them with additional communication…

Describes a study in which two groups of students read the same case study presented either in paper form or on a computer using visuals and decision paths. Concludes that the students using the computer version performed somewhat better at choosing the correct final memo paragraph but that neither the computer nor the traditional method was…

Defines and describes virtual reality technology and differentiates between virtual learning environment, learning material, and learning tools. Links learning rationales to virtual reality technology to pave conceptual foundations for application of virtual reality technology education. Constructivism, case-based learning, problem-based learning,…

Investigates the effects of case-based instruction, compared to traditional instruction, on students' ability to activate, assemble, and incorporate different knowledge sources in memory. Finds that activating and expanding knowledge through the use of thematically organized and cross-disciplinary self-selected cases facilitated students' ability…

Evaluates the use of actual patients in a required clinical applications course at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy. Patients discuss their illness and how it affects their lives with the first-year students. On 12 of 13 items, students scored significantly higher on an attitude survey following the first patient presentation than…

Discusses the need to teach cultural awareness and reduce cultural hostility with culturally homogeneous college classes. Recounts use, in a class of graduate business students, of the case of Salman Rushdie being placed under an Iranian death threat for his writings. Explains the six-step process used to structure reading and discussion of the…

Presents the learner-generated case study as a teaching/learning technique that focuses on learners' current developmental needs. Cases, generated by learners, are real, current, and involve international challenges. Explains the technique's main features and use in graduate international management courses and corporate training programs.…

Presents a case study for use in business communication classes to help students understand and learn both the context and the strategies for communication with business and management. Deals with multiple problems caused by the rapid expansion of an insurance brokerage, including gender issues, clarification of responsibilities and roles, and…

Presents a case study for use in business communication classes to help students understand and learn both the context and the strategies for communication with business and management. Deals with dilemmas of moral and ethics within a company that has gone through downsizing and is considering relocating. Includes two assignments. (SR)