The author analyzes some of the conceptual problems which have prevented a direct test of the discovery learning hypothesis, provides an operational definition of discovery learning, and proposes an improved experimental paradigm. Appended are 38 references. (AA)

The Domain of Instructional Technology is charted, defined, and explained. (LS)

Discusses the implications of Unesco's latest report on the status of literacy, the significance of the change of emphasis to functional literacy, and the effects of the population explosion on literacy statistics. (MF)

Industrial Arts education is examined in retrospect and through current efforts to determine its identity. The three positions examined are: Occupational Oriented, Industry-Technology Oriented, and Technology Oriented. (GR)

Presents a typology for differentiating between varying definitions of educational needs. The typology is based on the assessment of learner competence, motivation, and the relevance of the learning activity. A case study to test the typology investigates the degree of interdependence of these elements in the assessment of learner needs.…

Offers examples of innovative approaches to teaching the new microcomputer vocabulary. (Available from: Modern Learning Publishers, Inc., 6517 Liggett, Oakland, CA 94611, $14.) (AEA)

This introduction to a special section on evaluation utilization decribes the charge presented to the commissioned authors: to clarify what is meant by evaluation utilization. The resulting papers are described as presenting a clear rejection of the term utilization and as providing substantial assistance in distinguishing between utilization and…

The authors review findings from research on definition, identification, characteristics, courses, and intervention programs for underachieving gifted students. Among conclusions cited is the need for a more commonly accepted and functional definition and for understanding that underachievement is a pattern typically set in the elementary years.…

The definition of learning disabilities (LD) by the National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities emphasizes severity and heterogeneity; focuses attention on the internal nature; eliminates exclusive focus on psychological processing disorders; stresses the cognitive, linguistic, and academic nature of LD; and denies direct causation to other…

The definition of learning disabilities is viewed as ambiguous, confusing, imprecise, and a waste of time. The author cites the possibility of backlash from regular education. (CL)

Formulates some important criteria of a comparative discipline--independent of whichever sphere of knowledge it belongs to--and measures the comparative historical sciences mapped out against criteria. Focuses on the following main points: method, subject, intention, forms, and point of reference or form of reference of comparison. (Author/AH)