Discusses interviews of third- and sixth-grade students and their teachers regarding their perceptions of what makes a student a successful responder in classroom interaction. Findings reveal that students designated by their teachers as "effective responders" could articulate behavioral and content features of effect response, whereas…

Presents techniques to use in stimulating interest and effective learning outcomes in large classes, based on experiences at California State University, Los Angeles. Topics include active learning; collaborative learning; interactive learning; and use of the Web for student motivation and engaging in in-class discussions. (Author/LRW)

Observed speech and interactive behavior of American Hmong students who were attending a northern California high school indicate that Hmong student responses to teacher-generated questions were often influenced by culturally-based predispositions. Because of these differences, Hmong students often provided answers considered "wrong,"…

Discusses the use of MOOs (Multi-User Dimension/Dungeon Object Oriented), text-based virtual reality environments, in education. Highlights include connecting to a network; exploring several MOOs to determine which is most appropriate; and familiarizing students with the MOO's interaction and behavior policies, as well as how to operate in the…

Reviews research that focuses on the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and suggests implications for limited English proficient (LEP) students, both native and nonnative speakers. Highlights include narrative and meta-analytic research; reduction in learning time; attitudes toward computers; self-esteem; and the interaction of…

Examines the components of learner control, self-regulation, and the continuing motivation to learn as possible requirements and benefits of effective interactive instruction. Research literature is reviewed that addresses the interdependence of these three components, and suggestions are made for future research. (76 references) (LRW)

Examined student behaviors during laboratory activities and the amount of time involved in each behavior. Approximately 89 percent of the student time was spent interacting with others. The amount of time spent on various activities appeared to be dependent on the nature of the activity and on the make up of the laboratory group. (YP)

Discussion of the effects of group aptitudes on achievement during small group learning highlights two studies that examined the effects of group composition on high and low aptitude college students. Heterogeneous and homogeneous aptitude groups are described, and an individual mastery contingency in the second study is explained. (21 references)…

Issues connected with knowledge acquisition through the development of complex computer programs--Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITSs)--are discussed. The components of such a system and its applications are considered, including: elicitation of knowledge, tutoring with incomplete/uncertain knowledge, self-improving tutoring systems, and…

Identifies how well immigrant students can communicate among themselves. This research consists of eight steps: (1) identifying the problem; (2) investigating suitable research methods; (3) defining terms; (4) reviewing the literature; (5) doing preliminary investigations; (6) hypothesizing; (7) realizing outcomes for learners; (8) reporting. (12…

This interview with Seymour Papert discusses literacy, computer literacy, and information fluency; problems with education; how children learn; the use of LEGOs and computers as constructive mediums; the movement for alternative schools; problems with curriculum; the role of government and corporate America; learning technology; interactivity; and…

The spoken language occurring when primary school children work in groups at the computer was examined. Findings suggest that discourse accompanying highly structured software conforms well to the initiation/response/follow-up (IRF) structure, with the computer often taking the initiating role. The more open-ended the program, the more…

Examined sociocultural influences on mathematics achievement. First generation Chinese American and Caucasian American mother-father-daughter triads were audiotaped as the fifth- and sixth-grade girls solved a spatial puzzle. Chinese American triads were quieter, more respectful, more serious, and more orderly, whereas Caucasian American triads…

The effects of disability, age grouping, and adult involvement on interactions of preschool children with disabilities (n=16) and children without disabilities (n=32) were studied in sessions of free play or adult involvement. Children with disabilities spent more time passively nonengaged. Even when controlling for developmental age, intergroup…

Significant increases in college faculty productivity will require fundamental restructuring of faculty members' work, which will meet with resistance. It will mean maximizing essential faculty-student interaction, integrating new technology fully into student learning processes, and enhancing learning through peer interaction. (MSE)