The author describes and gives examples of his Optional Assignments Method (OAM) system of individualized instruction for postsecondary basic drafting courses. The OAM system allows students to begin and complete the course at any time and to work at their own pace. (MF)

Discusses eighteen minicourses developed from material contained in BSCS biology yellow, green, and blue versions. (BB)

One example is given of the success and feasibility of specially designed teaching toys that are really mini-computer terminals connected by telephone lines to a minicomputer which transmits individualized, daily programmed instruction to children. (MN)

Describes some ways to make mixed ability teaching more relevant for slow learning students and to relieve some of the apprehension experienced by classroom teachers. (Author/RK)

Presents some principles and techniques to help vocational instructors in working with handicapped students in both classroom and lab, including special techniques for different kinds of handicaps. Special education teachers and consultants are suggested as offering valuable assistance. (MF)

The Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) required for all handicapped students by P.L. 94-142 is described. The implementation process set forth in the legislation is summarized, and the time line requirements are discussed. Finally, guidelines for the participants in the process are presented. A sample IEP form is also included. (BM)

A shop instructor with 25 years of teaching carpentry and cabinetmaking shares his philosophy on running a productive shop, tying his theories to accepted principles of individualized instruction. (Editor/HD)

Describes the Elastically Structured Teaching (EST) method of instruction employed at West Virginia University which gives students more freedom than does traditional lecture, but which is not totally self paced. (SL)

Describes a curriculum model designed to clarify some issues involved in individualized instruction. Its intent is to sort through the vast array of programs developed for individualization and to achieve a better understanding of the concept of individualized learning. Based on informal and formal approaches, the model contains: goals and…

The Automated Instruction Shorthand System is a multi-sensory instructional program that conditions the rapid recall of Gregg symbols. The system is designed to allow students to succeed at a speed that is most comfortable to his/her abilities in the expectation that individualization will increase motivation and reduce the rate of attrition in…

Describes an introductory individualized physics laboratory system for science and engineering students. (SL)

Reports on an investigation in which topics in genetics and probability were taught to students divided along the Piagetian dimension of field-indepent (FI) and field-dependent (FD) ability. Two teaching strategies, inductive (IND) and a deductive (DED) approaches, were used. Retention scores revealed that regardless of strategy experienced, FI…

Reports on adverse side effects in an organic chemistry course taught by the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI). (SL)

The author recounts his experience in dealing with a child of normal intelligence but an unusually short attention span and physical restlessness. (JD)