Discusses the application of spelling research findings to the design of computerized instructional spelling programs. The need for individualization is stressed; lesson size, content, and time devoted to instruction discussed; three cognitive models with appropriate instructional strategies for each are presented; and further research needs are…

Describes a university project to increase academic learning time in two rural Nebraska school districts. Outlines the use of teacher triad observation teams to increase teachers' awareness of time use in their classrooms and to provide teachers with objective information on which to base instructional process decisions. (SV)

Describes a study of 80 undergraduate foreign language learners that compared the use of a hyper-reference source incorporating an electronic dictionary and a conventional paper dictionary. Measures of consultation frequency, study time, efficiency, and comprehension are examined; bilingual and monolingual dictionary use is compared; and further…

While there appears to be widespread agreement that schools need to use time more effectively to improve learning opportunities, education research is needed on the cost and results of using time differently. Presents a cost-simulation model to determine the relative costs of a year-round program. (MLF)

Discusses writing instruction in elementary and secondary schools. Writing reforms are suggested, including increasing time spent on writing and encouraging process writing; writing across the curriculum is discussed; the use of technology is considered; and sidebars give examples of writing improvement programs. (LRW)

Discussion of various types of feedback used in computer-assisted instruction focuses on a study of low-ability eleventh graders that compared the effectiveness of answer until correct (AUC) feedback with knowledge of correct response (KCR) feedback. Achievement data on posttests as well as time data are analyzed. (11 references) (LRW)

This study examined the effectiveness of a computer algebra system in teaching secondary school mathematics. Pre- and posttest results and time on task were compared for students receiving conventional instruction and those receiving computer-assisted instruction using an enhanced version of muMath, a standard computer algebra package. (four…

The eight chapters of this theme issue discuss recent research and theory concerning computer-based integrated learning systems. Following an introduction about their theoretical background and current use in schools, the effects of using computer-based integrated learning systems in the elementary school classroom are considered. (SLD)

Describes part of a research project in France involving the second-language acquisition of young children that focuses on the use of a computer augmented with a voice synthesizer. Topics addressed include written versus spoken language; multiple sources of information; self-correction; self-esteem; memory; and speed in the learning process.…

Study investigated a preservice physical educator's methods of improving his monitoring skills during gymnastics to improve students' on-task behavior. He had to make decisions about data collection and design future lessons using the data. Results indicated he improved his positioning skills, but at the price of neglecting other pedagogical…

Discussion of learning styles and learner control focuses on a study of college students that paired field-dependent and field-independent learning styles with different instructional control treatments. The use of interactive video lessons and a printed self-study guide is described, and treatments for the experimental and control groups are…

Examines differences between maternal verbal teaching interactions that facilitate adult transfer of task responsibility as demonstrated by children's improved task performance after a teaching session among low- and high-risk mother-child dyads. (Author/BB)

Presents a meta analysis which examines results of 254 controlled evaluation studies that compared student learning in classes taught with and without computer-based instruction (CBI). Outcome measures are described, statistical analysis and effect size are discussed, and results are reported that show that CBI usually produces positive effects on…

Discussion of computer-based instruction and animation focuses on a study of undergraduates that investigated the effects of two computer-based instructional strategies, visual display and feedback type, on teaching how to troubleshoot electronic circuits. Time spent on various components of the program is also examined. (35 references) (LRW)

Preservice teachers observed 288 elementary students during language arts instruction. High achievers spent twice as much time as low achievers completely involved in work, although low achievers spent three times as much time as high achievers definitely not involved in work. The effectiveness of curricular tasks in promoting expected behavior is…