Discusses why step-by-step educational processes are ineffective and discriminate against certain population groups. Describes how one engineering science and mechanics department addresses certain elements of this problem. (MLH)

If animals receive inescapable electric shocks, their subsequent avoidance-escape learning is poor. This phenomenon, which can be called "the interference effect", was studied in four experiments. (Editor)

Examines the central characteristics of interlanguages that distinguish them from all other natural language systems. It is proposed that, since permeability presupposes an interlanguage norm which is relatively stable, we are forced to gather enough data to establish the overall level of linguistic competence of the learner. (Author/POP)

The present research represents an initial attempt to compare the results obtained using artificial information with results obtained in a typical semantic memory experiment. (Editor)

The study suggests that developing greater facility in linguistic skills may well produce greater cognitive differentiation and enhance the process of objectification. (Author)

Comments on Maier and Seligman's research (EJ 138 911) on learned helplessness, specifically on their analysis of alternatives to the learned helplessness hypothesis. (Author/RK)

In a Virginia school grounded in Gardner's multiple-intelligences theory, K-12 students flock to the think tank, a hands-on discovery room, to explore their varied abilities. This well-equipped room synthesizes many ideas and theories, such as Socratic questioning and John Dewey's discovery-learning ideas. Because multiple ways of smartness are…

Uses a phenomenographic perspective to interpret and integrate the results of relational research in analyzing the experiences of teaching and learning in higher education. Describes conditions associated with two qualitatively different approaches to teaching that are associated with differences in the quality of student learning. Argues that…

Discusses the use of graphics in instruction and concludes that cosmetic and motivational graphics can be more realistic and detailed for affective goals, while schematic graphics may be best for the more cognitive functions of focusing attention and presenting actual content. Domains of learning, mental models, and visualization are examined.…

The Interactive Learning Model illustrates how we process information (cognition), perform learning tasks (conation), and develop a self when performing difficult learning tasks (affectation). Individuals approach learning tasks with varying degrees of sequence, precision, technical reasoning, and confluence. These ingredients are embedded in the…

Cites a relationship between the quality of classroom environments and literacy-related behaviors and learning. Presents four effective design concepts for literacy classrooms which affect learning: presence/absence of literacy tools; space arrangement and placement of literacy tools within that space; social interaction using literacy tools; and…

In a response to Halliday (1993), Gee (1994) discussed the analogies between learning a language and learning in general. The article presents two of his proposals and discusses an empirical method for studying them. The article focuses on identifying the units acquired during language learning and the relevance of the concept of an innate…

Investigates procedural and conceptual aspects in preservice elementary school teachers' understanding of the Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic. Participants' responses indicated that a possibility of alternative prime decompositions was often not overruled, and this influenced students' ability to make inferences regarding factors and divisors of…

Discusses the acquisition of foreign languages closely related to the learner's native language. The article argues that the transfer of elements from the native language plays a crucial role in the learning process. Results indicate that the native language hinders the learning process and that the lack of contrast blurs the linguistic structures…

Graduate students in two human resource development courses (n=35) answered critical incidents questions each week and evaluated the critical incidents method. Critical incidents increased students' understanding of evaluation and instructional design, raised consciousness of assumptions and beliefs, and highlighted communication issues affecting…