Reports on a study of university students that evaluated presentation styles in computer-assisted learning (CAL) and computer-based training (CBT) programs. Monochrome and colored textual presentations are compared, differences between computer-naive and computer-literate users are explored, and implications for the design of CAL and CBT programs…

A National Endowment for the Humanities report recommends a structured core undergraduate curriculum including two years of foreign language study and a year each of natural sciences, social sciences, and basic mathematics. It emphasizes Western texts but suggests two courses on other cultures. (MSE)

Discussion of the use of interactive video (IV) as an instructional medium focuses on its uses in the teaching of professional interpersonal skills. Topics discussed include the use of IV for tutorials and simulations; learning theories; a model of skill acquisition; hypothesis testing; and nine principles for interactive video designs. (33…

Reports the results of a case study of three elementary school library media centers (LMCs) that investigated the degree to which LMCs contribute to students' development of positive self-concepts. The relationship between self-concept and academic achievement is discussed, and research methodologies including interviews, observations, and written…

Describes an engineering course for graduate study in process control. Lists four major topics: interaction analysis, multiloop controller design, decoupling, and multivariable control strategies. Suggests a course outline and gives information about each topic. (MVL)

Stresses the usefulness of teaching the arts, especially drama, in classes for behaviorally disordered students. Discusses the problems created by a lack of time, money, trained teachers, and the demand for a back to the basics curriculum. Concludes that inclusion of drama in curriculum can reap many benefits for troubled youth. (KO)

A discussion of the Italian system for vocational and technical education covers the educational alternatives available to students, on-the-job and continuing education, enrollment rates and trends, educational attainment levels of workers in different age groups, and training content. Current concerns are outlined. (MSE)

Discusses reasons for failure in open learning, describes areas that can adversely affect student performance, and suggests possible corrective actions. Highlights include validation, or developmental testing, of courseware; the climate for learning; the role of local instructors; consequences of success or failure; course design; learning style…

An evaluation of an experimental problem-based medical education curriculum used with 18 first-year students at the Bowman Gray Medical School of Wake Forest University is discussed. The study, which included a matched group of students experiencing a traditional curriculum, provides insights into design problems in such evaluations. (TJH)

Examines the visions for the redesign of schools and the ways in which computers and communications technology have provided the means for these visions. Highlights include changes in instructional practices, including collaborative learning and interdisciplinary themes; change agents in the redesign of schools; and school organization and…

Discusses uses of technology in distance education and describes a study of college graduate students that illustrated the effects of two different instructional delivery technologies on the nature of interaction in online education systems: one used a synchronous video link-up and one used an asynchronous computer-mediated communication system.…

Asserts that elementary school art experiences are not always positive experiences. Discusses Eisner's model of art criticism which comprised six dimensions of critical judgments. Recommends a synthesis of subject-centered approaches based on four areas of activity: reacting; researching, responding, and reflecting. (CFR)

Asserts that World War II through its consequences still touches lives today. Presents suggested curriculum approaches and topics for teaching about the war to elementary school students. Includes recommended teaching resources and children's literature. (CFR)

Discussion of the educational needs of students who are both gifted and learning disabled focuses on terminology, definitions, characteristics, identification, and instructional programming. A study showing the effectiveness of systematic direct instruction in small groups for this population is summarized. (DB)

A study of the role of subject matter in shaping high school teachers' beliefs, curricular concerns, and instructional practices complements studies of the disciplines in higher education. Factors discussed include the "hard/soft" distinction between disciplines, curriculum sequencing, range of classroom techniques, breadth of course content, and…