This study examined the effectiveness of a computer algebra system in teaching secondary school mathematics. Pre- and posttest results and time on task were compared for students receiving conventional instruction and those receiving computer-assisted instruction using an enhanced version of muMath, a standard computer algebra package. (four…

The eight chapters of this theme issue discuss recent research and theory concerning computer-based integrated learning systems. Following an introduction about their theoretical background and current use in schools, the effects of using computer-based integrated learning systems in the elementary school classroom are considered. (SLD)

Describes part of a research project in France involving the second-language acquisition of young children that focuses on the use of a computer augmented with a voice synthesizer. Topics addressed include written versus spoken language; multiple sources of information; self-correction; self-esteem; memory; and speed in the learning process.…

Study investigated a preservice physical educator's methods of improving his monitoring skills during gymnastics to improve students' on-task behavior. He had to make decisions about data collection and design future lessons using the data. Results indicated he improved his positioning skills, but at the price of neglecting other pedagogical…

Discussion of learning styles and learner control focuses on a study of college students that paired field-dependent and field-independent learning styles with different instructional control treatments. The use of interactive video lessons and a printed self-study guide is described, and treatments for the experimental and control groups are…

Examines differences between maternal verbal teaching interactions that facilitate adult transfer of task responsibility as demonstrated by children's improved task performance after a teaching session among low- and high-risk mother-child dyads. (Author/BB)

Presents a meta analysis which examines results of 254 controlled evaluation studies that compared student learning in classes taught with and without computer-based instruction (CBI). Outcome measures are described, statistical analysis and effect size are discussed, and results are reported that show that CBI usually produces positive effects on…

Discussion of computer-based instruction and animation focuses on a study of undergraduates that investigated the effects of two computer-based instructional strategies, visual display and feedback type, on teaching how to troubleshoot electronic circuits. Time spent on various components of the program is also examined. (35 references) (LRW)

Preservice teachers observed 288 elementary students during language arts instruction. High achievers spent twice as much time as low achievers completely involved in work, although low achievers spent three times as much time as high achievers definitely not involved in work. The effectiveness of curricular tasks in promoting expected behavior is…

Discusses library staff training for microcomputer use. Topics discussed include size of training groups; trainer qualifications; length of time of instruction; resources; evaluation; media format, including audiocassette tapes, videocassette tapes, slides, and software programs; written documentation; and in-service training programs offered by…

This study implemented a physical education curriculum focusing on positive social skills in two urban elementary schools. Results showed an immediate increase in student leadership and independent conflict resolution, increased class time devoted to activity participation, and decreased time spent off task or on organizational tasks. Similar…

This study, with 4 parent-child dyads in which the children (ages 9 to 11) exhibited substantial homework problems, found that goal setting and contingency contracting produced significant improvements in children's homework accuracy. Two of the subjects showed substantial improvements in on-task behavior. Parents rated the procedures highly.…

A hypothetical case study is presented to show how a teacher might incorporate choice-making opportunities for a student with emotional and behavioral disorders who is failing math. Practical strategies are suggested that special and general educators may use in their academic curricula to encourage students to make appropriate choices. (Contains…

The authors used the Fagan Test of Infant Intelligence (J. F. Fagan, L. T. Singer, J. E. Montie, & P. A. Shepherd, 1986) to examine preferences for novelty and to evaluate several indicators of attention (off- and on-task indexes and durations) in 6- and 9-month-old infants who had been prenatally exposed to cigarette smoke only or to cocaine plus…

Secondary vocational-technical education programs in Mississippi are faced with many challenges resulting from sweeping educational reforms at the national and state levels. Schools and teachers are increasingly being held accountable for providing true learning activities to every student in the classroom. This accountability is measured through…