Discusses changes needed in the field of educational technology and recommends future directions. Topics discussed include instructional theories; descriptive versus prescriptive theories; analysis versus synthesis; a formative evaluation approach to research; the relationship of research and development; organizational methods for instruction;…

Proposes the use of procedural task analysis as a tool to assess a person's mental processes during problem solving in science education research. Uses transcriptions of videotape or audiotape problem-solving sessions to identify students' knowledge structures and misconceptions. (MDH)

Describes the design and delivery of an Internet course in using instructional systems design (ISD) software for workforce training offered by Southern Illinois University. Discusses ISD and hypermedia models for instructional design, computer-mediated communication for interaction and course delivery (e-mail, bulletin boards, discussion groups,…

A study examined the use of online computer resources by students and educators in journalism and mass communication programs. Heads of 200 journalism and mass communication programs at member schools of the Association of Schools of Journalism and Mass Communication were surveyed in February 1996. Of the 133 (67%) responding, the average…

Distance education's use of the instructional systems design model has been challenged by critics who suggest that the learner is passive and learning is superficial. A suggestion is that distance education should be structured so that learners assume a more active role in the development and use of autonomous and self-directed learning…

To determine the extent of changes being implemented in the middle grades in Wisconsin school districts, 532 surveys were mailed to Wisconsin middle level schools that include grades 7 and 8; the return rate was 81 percent. After reviewing the development and content of the survey, this document relates survey findings to the eight principles of…

This report is intended to assist curriculum developers, administrators, and teachers in the Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system in deciding if and when it is appropriate to introduce individualized systems of instruction in their programs. The first section explains what individualized instruction is and examines the reasons for the…

The Albuquerque (New Mexico) Public Schools conducted a three-year study of integrated computer-based learning systems, including WICAT, Dolphin, PLATO, CCC, and DEGEM. Through cooperation with the Education Consolidation Improvement Act Chapter 1 program, four large integrated learning systems (ILS) were purchased and studied. They were installed…

New instructional procedures for the competency-based curriculum for pharmacy education are examined by educators. The evolution of the competency-based program at the College of Pharmacy at the University of Minnesota is described, and information is presented concerning the classroom instructional model, the development of performance…

A study undertaken by a fourteen member consortium representing five schools each of medicine, dentistry, and nursing had as its objectives to: (1) generate, assess and collectively approve a comprehensive list of teaching skills and strategies that approximates observed and representative behaviors in clinical sciences teaching in medicine,…

Examining the transition from school to work in Europe, this speech focuses on a comparison of initial occupational preparation for young people in France, Germany, and Great Britain. The desired competencies in new entrants to the labor market are listed in four categories: basic cognitive skills; personal qualities and work attitudes;…

Instructional systems development (ISD) is a systems approach to curriculum development and instructional delivery. It is oriented toward occupational needs with an emphasis on what it is that students must learn to perform specific tasks, what facilities best provide a setting for the neccessary learning, and what instructional methods and media…

New forms of postsecondary education such as television colleges, contract learning programs, universities without walls, external degree programs, and education brokers have emerged to complement traditional adult and vocational education programs. New patterns and programs contribute to the open learning movement in higher education and offer…

Setting goals is not a new thing for schools. Most schools have devoted considerable effort to thinking through the outcomes they hope students will achieve as a result of their school experience. This training unit on setting goals is designed to sharpen school people's skills in deriving and refining instructional goals to reflect the current…

A proposal for cooperation in multimedia projects among European countries is advanced in a study sponsored by the Council of Europe. Projects that are now operating, such as the British Open University, are analyzed and the possibilities of extending them to other parts of Europe are assessed. Multimedia "first education", a cooperative…