Two individuals with severe mental retardation, participants in a supported employment program, were taught to use self-instruction in combination with multiple exemplar training to solve work-related problems. Use of the combined strategy resulted in generalization of self-instruction statements and correct responses to untrained problem…

A. M. Gentile's four-step, cognitive process approach to skill acquisition is proposed as preferable for learning movement skills, when compared to the traditional behavioral approach. Five positive outcomes of the cognitive approach are identified, focusing on opportunities for students to engage in skill analysis and creative problem solving.…

Two representations useful in teaching transmission genetics are described. Details of the representations and problem solving using these instructional aids are discussed. The importance of developing representations which help remedy specific difficulties that students commonly encounter is stressed. (CW)

Described is an approach to teaching algebra in a meaningful context by using problem solving to motivate students and increase their retention. Examples of this approach are given. (CW)

Presented is an analysis of think-aloud protocols of graduate students solving several different tasks in organic chemistry. The systems used by these subjects were classified. It was reported that the methodological system was most often used. (CW)

Eighth graders (N=85) participated in a study that manipulated the content and form of students' lecture notes. Matrix notes were found to be relatively effective for learning concepts. Girls recorded a greater number of notes than boys on tests involving recall and recognition of factual items. (IAH)

Uses the philosophy of Taoism as a metaphor in describing the whole language approach to language arts instruction. The discussion covers the key principles that inform the whole language approach, the resulting holistic nature of language programs, and the role of the teacher in this approach. (16 references) (CLB)

Describes an experimental French foreign language program in one Italian region's primary schools. Discussion focuses on specific strategies used for developing proficiency at that age level based on the characteristics of French and the nature of language. (MSE)

Discussion of the effectiveness of learner control in computer assisted instruction focuses on a study of undergraduates at Cornell University using an interactive videodisc lesson on waterfowl identification. Opportunities for students to modify the delivery of the program are described, and the effects of student expectations of control on…

Presented are four research articles and staff development activities. Included are: an activity used to stimulate discussion of the issue of balanced science; a constructivist approach to teaching electric circuits; a science grading scheme; and a discussion of priorities in science education. (CW)

Describes four guidelines (needs assessment, focusing on strengths, organizing for the learning task, and modeling strategies for teaching and learning) which help content area teachers in inservice education programs develop skills to enhance students' content area learning. Includes a lesson plan using direct instruction. (RS)

Proposes directions to help researchers balance instructional technology goals with the performance of well-designed and scientifically sound studies. Issues concerning the external validity of studies, use of media replications, and learner control as a means of adapting instructional strategies to individuals are emphasized, and designs for…

Examines patterns in college students' text markings using texts from three content areas: history, political science, and sociology. Indicates little differential marking between various text-types. Concludes that students seem to have little idea how to mark text efficiently. (MG)

This paper contrasts active and passive learning environments, and describes efforts to create an active, critical learning environment in both "Introduction to Sociology" and "The Family System" typical lower division courses in sociology. There is a review of grade distributions, quantitative course evaluations, qualitative course evaluations,…

Investigated 48 preschool, kindergarten, and first grade children's use of perceptual and taxonomic memory organization strategies. Addressed age differences in qualities, coordination, and effectiveness of study and retrieval organization strategies, and age and individual differences in relationships between memory knowledge and strategy use.…