Raymond B. Cattell's research has produced many conceptual, methodological, measurement, and data analysis tools for identifying and studying interindividual differences and similarities in intraindividual change patterns. Additional Cattell contributions to lifespan developmental research include personality and ability concepts and their…

Addresses the question of the degree of importance which accuracy of form has for the second-language learner. Effective techniques for focusing on form and correcting errors are discussed. The techniques are based on a grid that matches learner variables and instructional variables. (SED)

Reports results of studies with an unsupervised learning paradigm called competitive learning which is examined using computer simulation and formal analysis. When competitive learning is applied to parallel networks of neuron-like elements, many potentially useful learning tasks can be accomplished. (Author)

Describes some of the current views in semantics and semantic development and discusses the implications for vocabulary instruction. Explains the major theories of word meaning acquisition in children and lists researched variables of word meaning development. Offers examples of instructional strategies for effective vocabulary development. (ML)

Provides methods teachers can use to help remedial readers attack both monosyllabic and multisyllabic words they do not recognize. (FL)

Explains why structured composition assignments produce better writing than nondirectional writing experiences, explores the reasons for this, and establishes hypotheses based on these reasons for developing a theory of composition instruction. (HOD)

Provides historical perspective on the contributions of learning and instruction to instructional theory and discusses some major obstacles currently inhibiting its growth. Suggestions for future development of this discipline are provided. Emphasis is placed on the process of theory construction perceived by philosophers of natural and social…

An examination of the origin and content of general systems theory is followed by identification of the major characteristics of systems and brief discussion of use of models. Two ways of applying a systems model are identified and their appropriateness is assessed in relation to particular training circumstances. (55 references). (Author/MBR)

Reaffirms the relationship between classification and reading and supports the emphasis on the substrata factor theory on classification and superordination in particular. (FL)

Reports on the reading processes of seven research physicists using data gathered from a series of interviews and observations. Reveals reading processes permeated with individual purposes and schema. (FL)

Describes dialogue journals, which provide natural, functional experiences with both reading and writing. Suggests guidelines for both their classroom implementation and for teachers' responses to children's journal entries. (FL)

Disproves two assumptions about the development of written language by examining the spontaneous writing of a young child. Expounded primarily by James Britton and associates, the assumptions are (1) children's early writing is relatively undifferentiated in function, and (2) the primary starting point for young writers is writing stories. (HTH)

Reviews theories on cognition and perception as they relate to language and the arts and presents research supporting an arts-centered curriculum as beneficial to language and reading development. (FL)

A classroom floor plan, conforming to theoretically equable features (line of sight bearings, expanding/concentrically diminishing wave forms, vectors proportionate, "time") is presented to show that an equable state exists but is entirely theoretical and as a reminder that different options can exist without diminishing the basic human…

Briefly explores the philosophical underpinnings and point of view of several instructional theories/positions (behavioral, cognitive information processing, cognitive inquiry, and humanism) by examining goals, instructional procedures and strategies, and assessment and evaluation methods. A way to maximize the strengths of these theories for…