Describes the process of problem-based learning (PBL), discusses the history of the movement, and analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of PBL. Explains the advantages of PBL in developing desirable attributes in biochemistry graduates which include being able to generalize, being able to interpret data, and possessing knowledge of relevant…

In a University of Central Lancashire (England) program, upperclassmen support learning of peers through small-group peer tutoring in study skills, earning academic credits for doing so. The program targets courses with difficult content, predominance of lectures, and low rates of teacher-student interaction. Evaluation indicates reduced course…

Argues the archaeologist/anthropologist approach motivates and engages students, and teaches interpretive and problem-solving skills. Outlines a role play for intermediate grades in which students observe, describe, and make inferences about the contents of a suitcase packed by someone known to the students. Lists objectives, materials,…

This article is a case study of two distance education graduate courses offered by means of computer-mediated communications at The Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. Topics discussed include adult learning; student interactions; teacher's roles; student achievement; student attitudes; small groups versus learning partners; and…

Describes study that was designed to explore the verbal interaction and problem solving behaviors occurring within small learning groups of fourth graders working cooperatively on a computer-assisted problem solving task. Ability groupings are described and factors relating to the successful completion of the task are discussed. (28 references)…

Discussion of the effectiveness of combining instructional strategies to produce methods of group instruction that are as effective as tutoring focuses on a study of undergraduates that assessed the cognitive, affective, and sociometric outcomes of an instructional system combining cooperative learning, enhanced student participation, and advance…

Harvard University's new dental school curriculum, and the changes mandated for its implementation, are discussed. The curriculum is characterized by small tutorial groups, student-centered instruction, and clinical treatment teams. The innovations have required significant institutional revitalization efforts and financial investment, with…

Contends that an important goal in history instruction is helping students understand the complexity of events. Describes the use of "Escalation," a commercially available computer simulation, in a high school U.S. history class. Includes excerpts from student journals kept during the activity. (CFR)

Describes an instructional strategy combining cooperative learning in small groups with questioning techniques designed to encourage creative and critical thinking. Asserts that creativity and the ability to work cooperatively are the two workplace qualities most identified by corporations and organizations as essential for future employees. (CFR)

Asserts that linking music ensemble programs and cooperative learning strategies often has been overlooked. Describes the benefits of cooperative learning techniques for music performance preparation. Concludes that the small-group approach can enhance traditional music programs by offering students the chance to make their own decisions. (CFR)

Maintains that undergraduate sociology students often are intimidated by course requirements in statistics and research methods. Describes course content and instructional strategies used to enhance student understanding and motivation. Reports that student evaluations of the course were uniformly positive. (CFR)

This paper describes (1) the role of reflection in learning and teaching as presented at a Philippines-Australia Science and Mathematics Education Project training program; (2) the use of writing as a tool for reflection; and (3) examples of teacher reactions to the training on reflection. (25 references) (MDH)

This study examined computerized classwide applications of curriculum-based measurement (CBM) to improve teachers' math planning within large group instructional settings, using a mathematics operations curriculum in 10 sixth grade classes. Preliminary findings suggest CBM increases teachers' abilities to incorporate students with disabilities…

This study examined the effects of five variables--student grouping at the computer, keyboarding status, academic discipline, student gender, and gender of partner--on student social behavior, both verbal and affective, in microcomputer classrooms in a public business high school. The effect of these variables on teacher behavior was also…

Discusses methods of improving the performance of integrated learning systems (ILSs). Topics addressed include the theoretical basis of ILSs; appropriate level of instruction; academic learning time; motivation; quality of instruction; a study of elementary students' use of ILSs; individualized and homogeneous group activities; mixed-ability…