Sixty-three studies which investigated cognitive achievement effects following interactive video (IV) instruction were integrated through a meta-analysis technique. Overall, mean achievement effect for IV was .530 (corrected for outliers), indicating that IV is an effective form of instruction. The effect is similar to that of computer-assisted…

This qualitative study focused primarily on career women, managing learning, and the application of lifelong learning concepts. The main purpose of the study was to discover how lifelong learning concepts may have been instrumental in influencing the vision, attitude, and goals of the 20 career women included in this inquiry (two women were…

This digest examines the basic tenets of Self-Directed Learning (SDL) and discusses the findings of recently conducted research which are germane to SDL's application in K-12 classrooms. Self-directed learning has its roots in adult education and has been investigated and discussed for many years. The digest surveys the literature to identify…

Examines changes in the "supersystem" of instructional systems design (ISD) that indicate the need for a paradigm of training and education based on learning instead of sorting students. Emphasizes the necessity of developing initiative, teamwork, thinking skills, and diversity, as well as new learning-focused instructional theories and…

Considers the characteristics of a radical syllabus type in communicative language teaching known as the Process or Negotiated syllabus. The Negotiated syllabus model's difference from other types, its potential difficulties in implementation, and the degree to which the model might contribute to an eclectic approach in syllabus design are…

Computer users need not form a mental model to describe what is happening during a tutorial. Rather, users need to form text schemas, and tutorials should be thought of as a communication medium. Tutorials should be considered to be like books, and hypertext may be the best structure for them. (Contains 40 references.) (JLB)

Argues that personalized system of instruction (PSI) and other contingency managed methods of instruction are effective for teaching higher order cognitive skills. Answers critics claims that instructional delivery system is not responsible for course content. Notes that PSI has been used in courses requiring higher order skills. Reports that…

This fourth in a series of edited transcripts based on a conference at Utah State University compares Gagne's Conditions of Learning with Merrill's Component Display/Design Theory, and suggests a merging of the two. Topics discussed include content structures, learning hierarchies, learning theories, learner control, problem solving, cognitive…

Studied effects of instructional method (cooperative vs. individual) and learner control of options on achievement, option use, attitudes, and interactions of college students during computer-based instruction. Achievement benefits of cooperative learning may not apply when students are provided with an instructional environment with many…

In this exploratory study, university students were given the choice of two forms of course participation. One involved structured instructor support using the World Wide Web, including regular feedback; the second made the same possibilities available but did not require or structure their use. Includes a cost benefit analysis. (Contains 21…

The usefulness and application of andragogical assumptions has long been debated by adult educators. The assumptions of andragogy are often criticized due to the lack of empirical evidence to support them, even though several educational theories are represented within the assumptions. In adult online education, these assumptions represent an…

This article explores Web 2.0 in interactive learning environments. Specifically, the article examines Web 2.0 as an interactive learning platform that holds potential, but is also limited by learning styles and cultural value preferences. The article explores the issue of control from both teacher and learner perspectives, and in particular the…

This paper reflects a collaborative effort between the New Media Consortium (NMC) and the JISC Innovation Support Centres, CETIS and UKOLN. The research underpinning the report makes use of the NMC's Delphi-based process for bringing groups of experts to a consensus viewpoint, in this case around the impact of emerging technologies on teaching,…

This study examined the way children learn about and use the novel features of videodiscs. Nine 9- and 10-year-old students in a progressive private school in New York City participated in the study. None had prior experience with videodisc technology. The two videodiscs which served as test materials--"The First National Kidisc" and "Fun and…

Describes having ninth-grade English students work on independent studies units for the final six weeks of class, in which students choose, plan, and schedule their topic, assignments, and evaluation. Describes implementation, and notes pitfalls and how to avoid them. (SR)