Discusses two studies in Italian which (1) used texts that varied along a number of stylistic dimensions and (2) tested the generalizability of the recent research which suggests that recognition memory for verbatim material depends in part on the role played by a given form in the discourse as a whole. (NKA)

An evaluation of two inservice courses in human relations for teachers obtained data from structured diaries kept by participants before, during, and after the course, and follow-up interviews. Results indicate that teaching is a stressful activity, and the two experiential courses enabled participating teachers to alter behavior and reduce…

Suggests a method of integrating user performance and attitudes toward the computer system into quality control procedures (QCP) and describes an application of user attitudes to the QPC in a class of novice computer users receiving instruction in BASIC programing language via formal classroom lecture with computer assisted instruction tutorials.…

Describes two experiments on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) interaction in which interactional analysis is utilized to provide information on the interaction of students with microcomputers. It is suggested that interactional analysis is the key to improving the design and application of CAI materials. (MBR)

This study analyzed social interaction ratings of field independent and dependent students in a Personalized System of Instruction course. Field dependent student pairs rated themselves as having interacted more than field independent students. There were no significant differences in ratings of field independent student pairs or mixed pairs. (MBR)

Describes a study which explored the effects on kindergarten children of a LOGO computer programing experience lasting one month (20 classes). Results indicate a positive effect as seen in greater gains by treatment group in dependent school readiness variables and no significant effect on creativity or self-concept. (MBR)

In a study of elementary children required to read factual or fictitious passages with or without relevant pictures, recall performance revealed a pictorial facilitation effect which differed according to passage type. Pictures with story passages enhanced recall of illustrated text while pictures with factual passages enhanced illustrated and…

Summarizes information processing models of the mind based on a literature review; describes a prototypical model of college learning; examines links between mental models and cognitive errors; reviews cognitive science students; and identifies six factors contributing to cognitive error production. (104 references) (Author/MBR)

Describes a study that factor analyzed questionnaire data and compared factor scores of good and poor college-level readers to determine the text-learning strategies of each group. Results, which indicate poor readers rely heavily on study strategies without an understanding of the text to be studied, have implications for remedial reading…

To determine characteristics of and opinions about undergraduate student research in psychology at small liberal arts colleges, 337 schools were surveyed via questionnaires. The return rate was 81 percent. Eighty-four percent of the respondents support such activity. A student research program is not related to number of students per faculty. (RM)

The authors contend failure to confirm Weiner's theory is a result of shortcomings inherent in his model. They argue that cognitive theory has been properly represented and tested, and that the study of achievement behavior is enhanced by the addition of motivational, noncognitive assumptions to their theories. (Author/DWH)

Describes an automated microcomputer system that can present precise stimuli and record accurate responses and discusses its use in studying and training retarded and psychotic children. It is noted that training procedures that require the children to utilize visual, auditory, and bimodal stimuli can be automated with the system. (MBR)

Prospects for improving social policy affecting families are brighter now than they have been in several years. For psychologists to contribute significantly in this area, they must form a broader coalition of children's groups as well as a lobby encompassing both political parties and representing the interests of all children and families. (GC)

Attempts to enrich civic learning should consider recent psychological studies. Changes must begin with teacher education and should be focused on: (1) changing classroom climate, where teachers' attitudes toward use of democratic or authoritarian processes can exert great influences; and (2) understanding students and teachers as developing…

According a more important role in the socialization process to the games children play, this study examines sex differences in childrens' playtime activities. A large body of new empirical data on fifth grade school children suggests that play and games equip boys with the social skills needed for occupational careers while equipping girls with…