Presents a scheme for comparing the text-learning outcomes derivable from study of either text or a summary of the text and considers some practical study strategies students might adopt when summaries are available and when they are not. The value of summaries in instructional situations is discussed. (MBR)

The existing literature on reading comprehension instruction is organized and reviewed. The authors question whether explicit training to improve comprehension or monitoring strategies should be offered, since these behaviors improve with maturity and experience and in the absence of any apparent training, but conclude that it is possible that…

The keyword method of vocabulary learning was compared with five methods designed to increase semantic processing of the definitions of vocabulary words. The method enhanced vocabulary/definition (associative) learning, but not definition (response) learning per se. In contrast, the semantic conditions tended to increase nonassociative learning of…

The self-reported use of surface and deep-level learning strategies by first-year student teachers at an Australian college of advanced education was studied. The consistency of strategies used by students implies that they use them prescriptively rather than creatively in given situations. These results are considered in light of recent theory of…

Describes study conducted using high school foreign language students to identify and examine effects on learning of three learning strategies--practicing, monitoring, and inferencing. Results suggest strategies have positive role in classroom, but their use is related to attitude not aptitude of language learner.

Three aspects of the learning strategies model are discussed: its philosophy (that intervention should be based on principles of cognitive psychology and learning); its major components (including identification, decision making, and cooperative planning); and its application to a 15-year-old LD student. (CL)

Discusses human performance technology and performance improvement. Topics include classroom and workplace performance; learner and performer supports, including reasons for learning, tools, and guidance; learner and performer constraints, including motives, capabilities, knowledge, skills, and attitudes; and instructional systems interventions…

Presents personal reflections on experiences in distance education and teaching practices. Kolb's experiential learning cycle is discussed; technological, facilitation, and learning confusions are examined; and constructivist learning and common sense are considered. (LRW)

Examines the subprocesses of reading, as identified in first- and second-language reading research, and the two types of input required, i.e., data from the text and learner stored data. It is argued that, through activities designed to work with each one of the subprocesses in turn, attention can be focused on the subprocess as well as the…

Explains the use of a card lab to demonstrate how a population bottleneck impacts genetic diversity and the survival of a population. Uses a standard deck of playing cards to show how age structure can magnify bottleneck effects. (DDR)

Presents a study which employed sociolinguistics perspectives to investigate the social context of two mathematics classrooms that differed in socioeconomic background and gender of students. Argues that as mathematical knowledge is being constructed in the classroom, student participants are being constructed by the teachers according to their…

Describes by vignette and analysis four primary instructional tasks necessary to develop inquiry skills in children. Such tasks are shown to be fundamental to the inviting classroom and to experimental science. Claims that inviting inquiry requires a tolerance of error, supportive environments that nurture intellects, and participation that…

Describes procedures for a demonstration of the focal length of spherical lenses and mirrors using an aquarium, a flashlight, and nondairy creamer. Enables nonquantitative three-dimensional observation of these phenomena. (DDR)

Addresses the initial understanding that advanced undergraduate mathematics students exhibit when presented with a new concept in an environment requiring self-generation and self-validation of examples of the concept. Concludes that students who used an example generation learning strategy were more effective in attaining an initial understanding…

Notes that Guided Design is a teaching strategy that can be used to increase high school and college students' comprehension when reading and studying. Describes implementation of Guided Design and a summary of one student's application of Guided Design to the comprehension of a difficult chapter in a cognitive psychology textbook. (RS)