Since "external differentiation" (grouping by ability) has created difficulties, especially in larger schools, comprehensive schools, and orientation courses, a trend toward individualized instruction has arisen. The difficulties in implementing this are discussed here. Improving the external differentiation is advocated as preferable to…

A central problem area in bicultural education lies in the determination of the methods and techniques that will prove most effective in enabling the Spanish-speaking child to make optimum use of educational opportunities. (MM)

Discusses how one U.S. Army school has been successful in increasing student motivation and decreasing training time through the use of self-paced instruction. Important components of this type of instruction are outlined. (SH)

An argument that teaching introductory economic analysis can be made more effective with self-paced instruction using appropriately designed materials such as films, cassettes, and programmed learning units. (Author/AV)

This paper describes an extension and application of complex artificial intelligence methodology combined with computer technology applied to the area of education. (MM)

Several models of learning contracts designed to match the process-rather than product-oriented learning patterns of gifted students are presented. (RW)

Describes the basic components of the Individually Guided Education (IGE) system of individualized instruction, and reviews some evaluation studies that show IGE to be a success. (JG)

Argues that, under certain conditions, allowing students to select their own learning experiences results in optimum experiences for both instructors and students. Suggests that the optional approach to learning can be equally valuable for elementary students and college students. (JG)

Describes content of a university program aimed at developing older adults' self-concept, competency, and achievement, leading to a certificate in personalized education. Addresses concepts, abilities, and values to be developed and the integrating principle that is the cornerstone of the course. (SK)

A questionnaire completed by 453 preschool teachers and three focus groups examined how preschool teachers planned classroom activities and individualized instruction for children with disabilities. Results indicated that teachers spent between 1 and 5 hours per week planning, used some procedures that conflicted with recommended practices, and…

Provides one method for dealing with students' comprehension breakdowns by proposing a comprehension checklist. Explains that this checklist is designed to give struggling writers a starting point for fixing their own comprehension breakdowns by suggesting strategies and helping them self regulate their learning. Notes that the key to its…

Discusses what a quality curriculum should look like for a student with severe disabilities, who should determine curricular content, the basis for selection of curricular content, and how individualized curricular content can be appropriately addressed in a classroom where students without disabilities are pursuing different curricular content.…

Principles of educational interventions for students with attention deficit disorder (ADD) include: (1) giving complete and thorough directions; (2) individualizing in-class and homework assignments; (3) motivating students; (4) promoting active responding and monitoring understanding; (5) employing content enhancements; (6) offering learning…

Explains how teachers in the Freeport, Illinois School District began teaching to individual learning styles to ensure that all of their students performed well in school. Notes that the teachers insisted that students learn differently from one another. Concludes that once students understood what they were required to learn and could work…

The reading practices of four inmates were analyzed, showing very distinct approaches to reading. Standardized tests proved inadequate for assessing their learning needs. Other assessment formats such as miscue analysis and individualized instruction and materials were recommended. (SK)