Examines the advisability of public school adoption of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Topics discussed include computer networks; alternatives to ILSs, including stand-alone microcomputers and networks without ILSs; ILSs and theories of learning and teaching; turnkey systems; and ILSs and the profit motive of vendors. (17 references) (LRW)

Presents a prescriptive model for the instructional motivation of adults. The theoretical framework that combined adult learning theory with the ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction) model to create two motivational needs-assessment instruments is explained, and a study that surveyed adults to determine their perceptions of…

This article illustrates the theoretical and empirical basis of cognitive strategy instruction and compares this basis to major principles of constructivism. Illustrations of self-instructional and other cognitive strategy instruction models are presented in the areas of reading comprehension, written language, and memory. Maintenance,…

Reviews studies on the whole-language approach of pairing reading and writing courses to enhance the learning in both. Describes a study of 154 students enrolled in basic writing. Results suggest that simultaneous enrollment in a reading class will not significantly influence ability to pass basic writing. (PAA)

Several researchers' assumptions regarding social skills of individuals with learning disabilities are refuted as representing an "either/or" empirical view. A postmodern view is presented, contending that exceptionalities are differentiated by looking at the quality of behaviors and possible antecedents rather than comparing them quantitatively,…

The Learning Cycle Model presented is an attempt to build an articulated sequence of instructional activities that foster in-depth understanding of a complex natural phenomenon through many direct experiences that include student-generated inquiry, involve student-generated explanation and interpretation, and enrich the developed network of ideas…

Discusses some scaffolds or prompts for helping students to ask themselves better questions about science topics. Presents some teacher questions that test and develop some core thinking skills. (PR)

Reasons for not using generative learning or inquiry-oriented strategies in teaching include the fact that it takes too much time to develop appropriate materials and the instructional pace is too slow. This research studies the thinking of elementary teachers concerning a generative learning model of instruction as they developed unit plans for…

Describes the assessment of elementary-education majors' understanding of the learning cycle. Students displayed a high frequency of alternative conceptions even though the assessment was administered after they had received instruction and extensive modeling of the learning cycle. The data provided by the test can be used to improve instruction…

A study of the "silent period" in second-language learning focused on behavior of a 6-year-old Polish child shortly after immigration, in interaction with American children, bilingual Polish-American children, and another recent English-learner. Comparing play environments allowed identification of characteristics of interaction with…

Examines the role of educational technology from a constructivist perspective. Discusses the subset of computer-based technologies, especially the Internet, that are changing the way interactivity is defined, and examines how these technologies interface with constructivist approaches to pedagogy. Explores the place of constructivism as a…

Describes eliciting teachers' views on the nature of science, interpreting and understanding these views, and developing these views in the context of initial or in-service teacher education. Contains 28 references. (DDR)

Addresses some criticisms of the Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education (CASE) project. Offers a different description of the CASE teaching method and presents evidence from the program. Contains 20 references. (Author/WRM)

Discusses Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences (MI) and its integration in teaching English-as-a-Foreign-Language (TEFL) teacher-education programs. Four steps for introducing EFL teachers to MI theory are provided: introduce the basic theory; use an MI inventory; categorize familiar EFL activities; conduct a personal audit of…

Illustrates how the five cognitive levels--somatic, mythic, romantic, philosophic, and ironic--can be used to guide teaching and learning activities appropriate for engineering students. Uses the example of the concept of energy to demonstrate how educators might appeal to each mode of thinking for understanding a particular concept. (Contains 11…