This short paper describes a situation where one technique appears to teach more effectively than the other but where the conclusion drawn is different." (Author)

Reviews recent educational research that establishes the relationship between effective schools and student performance. School policies can lead to higher educational achievement, regardless of family background. (Author/WD)

The author, who changed her French class from a traditional, teacher-directed format to independent study, explains the benefits she found in this new system, particularly in the change of her own role. (SJL)

Attempts to evaluate the effect of various combinations of traditional instructional methods (TM) and personalized instruction (PSI) on final exam scores. It is hypothesized that groups which received PSI combined with enrichment provided by TM will score significantly higher on their cumulative final exam than students who receive instruction by…

Explores how to evaluate an existing self-study training course and determine whether it is better suited to an instructor-led format. Discusses determining the need, converting to an instructor-led format, benefits of instructor-led training, and evaluating the training. (LRW)

Discusses conflicts between traditional versus innovative instructors and the need to focus on the learning activities that tutor and student engage in, based on experiences at Staffordshire University (United Kingdom). Suggests that staff developer and tutor need to work together to maintain the authenticity of learning activities. (Author/LRW)

Describes a team research project that explored and compared students' satisfaction with course delivery methods (blended distance learning with a remote site and an on-campus site, and a traditional section) based on the students' learning preferences. Explains research methodology used and results from the current study, and provides…

This retrospective study presents a comparison of assessment results achieved by distance learning students undertaking the same module in a degree course to compare the quality of distance education versus conventional instruction in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. Identifies educational, cultural, and personal factors to explain higher scores…

Discusses online learning and the possible impact on classroom-based courses. Highlights include profits and online courses; problems with classroom learning; hybrid courses; potential for interactivity; adult learners and online courses; policies regarding the implementation of online learning; and a sidebar on the nature of interaction. (LRW)

Discussion of instructional technology in the university highlights new demands on the structure of the university, different assumptions about the definition of knowledge versus information, the role of the university in an information-oriented society, and the difference between supplementing media and comprehensive planned instruction. (LRW)

Describes the form of whole-class teaching found in Japanese and Chinese classrooms and points out the benefits of this type of classroom organization and teaching when lessons are conducted by well-prepared, skilled teachers. Information was obtained from the authors' visits to East Asian classrooms and from a large observational study involving…