Second graders taught by the whole language approach produced better writing samples, for content and meaning, than did second graders taught by the traditional approach. No differences were evident in the use of mechanics. Sixth grade samples evidenced no difference between the two approaches. (IAH)

Discusses student support systems in distance education based on experiences at the Open University (United Kingdom). Topics addressed include distance education versus traditional education; changes in the learning process; management theory; student support as a service industry; course production; resource allocation; and decision-making…

Discusses the implementation and use of computer-assisted learning in a traditional university physics course at Keele University (England), its effect on traditional course structure, and the effective use of academic staff time. Highlights SToMP (Software Teaching of Modular Physics), based on distance learning principles that permit self-paced…

Investigates the nature of foreign-language learning using CD-ROM packages and presents case studies that explore cognitive processes and alternative learning experiences which contrast with conventional delivery modes in foreign-language teaching. Concludes that CD-ROMs can promote vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, and independent learning.…

Science lessons were created to promote scientific and technological literacy (STL) among Estonian students. Teacher interviews (n=20) and student responses (n=470) to open-ended questions were analyzed based on process, attitudinal, and instructional domains. Outcomes emphasized the need for in-service guidance for teachers' better understanding…

Reports on the use of a computerized simulation integrated within a preservice methods course for early-childhood majors. Compares the difference in response to importance, knowledge, and attitude related to computer utilization in the course between the computer-simulation group and a control group taught by traditional means. (Author/LRW)

Reports on findings of a joint Sino-Japanese study comparing conventional and television-based higher education in China, examining student satisfaction and student expectation of higher education, relative to the resourcing of conventional and radio and television universities ("universities without walls") in China. Reports on a…

Compares the effectiveness of multimedia and traditional classes. Results show that (1) students in both classes did not differ on abilities before enrollment; (2) students in the multimedia class averaged higher examination scores; and (3) there are no consistent patterns between learning preferences and final examination scores in either case.…

Summarizes an experiment in web-based political science education that compared two sections (traditional and web-based) of a U.S. Government course. Evaluates the experiment from the viewpoints of the student, faculty member, and institutional administration. Concludes that educators should not view web-based instruction as a means to replace…

Compares online instruction and traditional classroom instruction at Macon State College (Georgia) in terms of both student perceptions and student performance as measured by grade distribution. Considers student gender, age, and employment status and reports the results of course evaluations. (LRW)

Examines the differences faculty experience in teaching online courses versus traditional courses. Discusses distance education; results of faculty interviews; reliance on text-based communication and a lack of visual cues with online courses; advantages of online classes; threaded discussions in Web-based classes; and differences in…

Considers how to reform on-campus teaching of large classes by using and adapting distance education methods relying mainly on technology and educational media. Topics include student access to media; skill development needed by students and teachers to use the new technology; and cost effectiveness. (Author/LRW)

Results from 53 classes of Dutch lower secondary school students (over 1,000 students) supported the effectiveness of a traditional course in German for grammar and vocabulary achievement. In comparison, a communication-oriented course was more popular with students and more effective in promoting communication skills. (SLD)

Describes a study that compared two formats, traditional and distance education, for a case analysis/case writing model in a graduate course in professional development. Discusses media theory; media attributes of realism, interactivity and feedback, and interface; knowledge acquisition; skill development; confidentiality; and networking.…

Discussion of distance education versus traditional instruction focuses on courses being converted at the Naval War College to Web-based courses. Explains equivalency theory, which aligns the learning experiences of online learners with those of on-site learners so that either scenario should yield the same outcomes. (LRW)