Examines (1) how students evaluate information obtained in the science laboratory; (2) the effects of use of microcomputer-based laboratory; and, (3) the effects of explicit instruction on critical evaluation skills. Discusses results in terms of students' propensity to accept incorrect graphs and in terms of the effect of the enhanced instruction…

Identifies specific science skill activities and discusses how they can be enhanced using the microcomputer in a laboratory setting. Highlights the benefits, advantages, and applications of microcomputers in physics laboratories. (ML)

Describes the use of simulations in teacher education from 1960 to 1979, which was audiovisually based, and from 1980 to the present, which is computer based. Examples of several simulation strategies are presented and evaluated, and factors that will shape future developments are discussed. (67 references) (CLB)

Traumatically head-injured individuals who reach the higher stages of recovery typically exhibit cognitive communication disorders. Patient management requires, among other considerations, a focus on functional communication competency, an ecologic-systematic perspective, and use of compensatory techniques. A case study applies this management…

Learning-disabled sixth through eighth grade students (n=25) received vocabulary instruction involving matching negation prefixes to root words. The students used an instructional computer game or a computer program that operated identically but without game features. Both programs produced equal gains in task skill, but the game produced higher…

The computerization of the campus has had a profound effect upon the way in which students, faculty, and administrators work and interact with each other. Some of the unexpected changes in human interactions are described, and theoretical considerations, managerial concerns, and implications for planning are addressed. (Author/MLW)

The development of reading ability among adults is compared with that of children. Discussed are the characteristics of adults at each developmental level, instruction for skill enhancement, difficulties experienced at various levels, a historical overview of literacy needs and standards, and the growing recognition of dyslexia in adults.…

A longitudinal study of the acquisition of telephone skills among five preschool children analyzed play telephone interactions and real telephone conversations for similarities and changes in performance. (MSE)

Examines effective ways of practicing reading that facilitate the development of efficient reading skills in beginners. Indicates that increases in reading efficiency depend largely on the amount of independent, computer-aided practice with speech feedback, a method that seems promising as a means of improving reading skills in beginners. (JK)

School-based training programs for personal and social coping skills have shown evidence of effectiveness in primary prevention of substance abuse. Early intervention programs for students most at risk are also needed, such as peer intervention, student assistance, and behavioral self-management programs in the areas of smoking and alcohol/drug…

Describes a strategy for query negotiation, based on a sense-making approach, which enables librarians to understand queries from users' viewpoint. The results of tests of the neutral questioning approach in workshops for librarians are discussed along with participating librarians' responses to this technique. (MBR)

A study of high school students learning computer programming was conducted to determine the impact of programming on particular mathematical and reasoning abilities, the cognitive skills or abilities that best predict programming ability, and what students actually understand about programming after two years of study. (MBR)

Cites limited meanings derived from a film, "The Shooting Gallery," by both eighth grade and library school students to support argument that students are not using critical analysis skills in responding to works of art. Developmentally-sound literature-based programs are recommended as one way to help students develop critical thinking skills.…

Describes students' perceptions of their studies in the Preacademic School at the Hebrew University and discusses their attitudes, expectations, and opinions with regard to a desirable preacademic preparatory program. Students expressed concern about deficiencies in learning skills. (ML)

The need to include specific training in administrative skills is addressed. An informal survey of ten faculty members from four Boston area colleges examined their perceptions of the role of the department chair, and their experiences with this role. The questionnaire is appended. (MLW)