Intended for individuals engaged in open and distance learning activities, this guide is designed with an applications focus that provides a "quick start" for immediate work needs. Built on an intuitive set of "How do I" questions, the book presents the foundation needed to teach from a distance. The format is a multimodel approach, combining…

This paper traces the development and maintenance of an introductory workshop delivered over the Internet, called the ALN (Asynchronous Learning Networks) Workshop on Internet Basics held at the Vanderbilt University Center for Innovation in Engineering Education (CIEE). The first section discusses creation and implementation issues, including…

This study introduced motivational strategies in the student support system of a distance education program, offered by the University of London (England) and implemented by the International Extension College in Cambridge (England). The program prepares international students for a diploma or masters degree in distance education. The study…

This paper examines how discourse analysis can be used as a methodology for understanding the mental models that influence how people navigate the Internet. Discourse analysis provides a methodology with which to articulate the relationships between language, social context, and the cognitive processes that underlie discourse perception and…

Two years ago the educational server, learn:line, of North Rhine Westfalia started at the State Institute of School and Further Education in Soest, Germany. A special pedagogical concept was put into practice and a platform for different types of schools was built--a platform for information, communication and cooperation among teachers as well as…

This paper focuses on the design of effective lesson plans using the Internet. Effective lesson design helps students to explore ideas, acquire and synthesize information, and frame and solve problems. The creative problem solving which depends upon context, interrelationships, and real-world activities is available through Internet projects.…

Examines the mastery learning model as proposed by Carroll and Bloom in the context of science instruction, addressing issues related to classroom application. Discusses expected results of implementing mastery learning and its impact on students and teachers, recognizing the additional burden on teacher time required by mastery learning…

When instruction is weak and inappropriate to a goal, only students with high intelligence and aptitude learn rules for problem solving. All students learn, when given time, help, and opportunity to practice problems. (RL)

Argues that developing writing activities, consulting with students as they work on a major writing project, and responding are important vehicles for teaching that fosters engaged learning. Central principles are to make assignments inquiry- or issue-based, to keep them focused but open enough for students to develop their own angle or interest,…

Discussion of cable television focuses on its use in the classroom. Topics include the learning environment; design, preparation, and delivery of instruction; teacher-learner interactions; examples of cable television use in the classroom; program development; equipment infrastructure; costs; and current trends and federal legislation. (LRW)

Maintains that cooperative learning produces higher achievement, more positive relationships among students, and healthier psychological adjustment than do competitive or individualistic experiences. Describes a cooperative learning core module complete with course content and assessment strategies. Discusses advantages, disadvantages, and student…

A study of teacher and student attitudes about instructional materials used in a university-level English-as-a-Second-Language course in South Korea found a low negative correlation between learner and teacher views on both the usefulness and the enjoyable quality of the materials incorporated into lessons. Questionnaires used for both teacher and…

In an experiment designed to dissociate the effects of instructional approach and system interface on learning in computer-based instruction, 18- to 30-year-old high school graduates with low mathematics ability were tested before and after completing three mathematics practice modules. Found that low ability students may not learn from computers…

Two studies focused on concurrent validity and instructional decision making in using alternative reading measures with elementary regular and special education students. The first study examined the relation of oral reading performance to several other reading measures; the second study investigated teacher decision making, using quantitative and…

To relieve reference staff meeting with 30 sections of undergraduates per year, the library at Western Michigan University designed a multimedia self-instructional tutorial to introduce library services and teach basic skills. Although considerable time and effort was expended creating the tutorial, little updating has been required. Included are…