The television screen under computer control is seen as a very compelling focus of attention that can be harnessed and used to good educational effect. It is stated that the most vital and difficult task in curriculum development is to make useful material accessible to teachers. (MP)

This study conducted to determine the effectiveness of using the Instructional Strategy Diagnostic Profile to revise self-instructional materials that teach abstract concepts examined three sets of materials: the original set, the set with improved consistency rating, and the set with improved consistency and adequacy ratings. Forty-six references…

Twenty-six Saudi Arabian students underwent a two year program at San Jose State University to learn how to individualize vocational training programs in their country. Each student completed a portfolio which contained a record of his competencies and individualized instructional packages for his future use. (MER)

Describes three systems for teaching foreign children German along with their native language. Concludes that teaching various subjects in the foreign language aids in learning the language. Discusses the use of films, cassettes, etc. in a bilingual teaching approach to natural sciences, mathematics, and other subjects. (IFS/WGA)

Considers the elements of organizational effectiveness, the relationships between ends and means, and the nature of inputs necessary to the organization's survival. Presents hypotheses for industrial, educational, and military organizational planning processes and training technology, and suggests changing planning focus from inputs to outcomes.…

To what extent is it possible to produce materials centrally that meet the nonformal learning needs of distant communities, and how might local community groups use them? Experiences in Great Britain, Canada, Colombia, and rural education programs worldwide provide some insight. (Author/MSE)

Summary and evaluation of a simulation game developed for a second-year undergraduate international politics course at McMaster University, Ontario, Canada. Purpose of simulation was to provide students with insight into nature of national relations through their own participation in a similar process. (ND)

Through a series of five tests, a slide-tape instructional presentation on the identification of beef quality was developed. It was determined that the slide-tape instruction can enable consumers to score more accurately characteristics of raw beef in relation to the characteristics of cooked beef. (Editor/TA)

ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers must keep several things in mind when preparing materials. Linguistics is still a major descipline to turn to for insights. Recent language research too is valuable. Teachers should be aware of the many good materials already in existence which can be adapted. (CFM)

Discussion of integrating Internet resources into the curriculum focuses on designing an online resource guide. Procedures for developing a set of bookmarks, putting the bookmarks on a Web page, the Netscape bookmarks file, and creating a districtwide resource are explained. (LRW)

Discussion of HTML (HyperText Markup Language) focuses on its use for developing CD-ROMs. Topics include the World Wide Web; cross-platform compatibility; the incorporation of text, graphics, audio, and video; learner control over display characteristics; and limitations of HTML for designing instructional materials. (LRW)

Describes the use of concept maps as a metacognitive tool to help chemistry teachers and learners improve teaching and learning. Concept maps were used in response to changes in the conceptions of the nature of scientific knowledge and in how learning occurs. Concept maps are valuable in documenting and exploring the restructuring of conceptual…

Describes the simultaneous development of paper-based and digitized versions of a textbook and related instructional material used in an undergraduate, independent study, distance education course at Athabasca University (Canada). Used break-even analysis as an initial evaluation measure to determine cost-effectiveness, and discusses the next…

Describes the stages of project management and instructional design. Outlines and compares the roles of project managers and instructional designers, and discusses how designers need to use a systematic approach which combines the stages of each process to remain detail-oriented while being cognizant of the entire project. (AEF)

Educators must prepare social work students to use computers in practice, develop practice-relevant software, and protect and empower those who might be victimized by information technology. Issues and tasks associated with each of these areas are discussed. (Author/MSE)