Discussion of research on computer-aided instruction (CAI) focuses on a set of questions and hypotheses that form the basis for research on the effectiveness of CAI. Four factors are highlighted: (1) the medium (including interactive videodisc); (2) the environment; (3) student characteristics; and (4) topic of instruction. (38 references) (LRW)

Describes a microcomputer-based simulation for educating teachers in classroom planning and decision-making. The conversion of a card-based simulation to microcomputers is discussed; variables involved in preinstructional decisions, classroom objectives, and managing student behavior are described; and teachers' observed policies are compared with…

Discusses the results of measuring the in-class effectiveness of a computer-controlled instructor workstation (IWS) that was developed at the Air Force Academy. Treatments for the experimental and control groups in an introductory physics course are described, and effects on student performance, student attitudes, and instructor attitudes are…

Describes study that examined text density levels as a design variable in print and computer-based instructional presentations. The six treatment groups are explained, including low density, high density, and learner controlled density; attitude surveys and achievement posttests are described; and implications of the findings for instructional…

Discussion of changes in learning as a result of computer-assisted instruction focuses on a study that compared interactions between at-risk high school students and teachers. Use of two different integrated learning systems with interactions between the same students and teachers during traditional classroom instruction was examined. (Contains 26…

Describes a study conducted in a Hong Kong primary school that compared the effects of learning LOGO programing with a process-oriented approach and a content-oriented approach to problem-solving skills. Transfer of training to nonprograming problem solving is discussed, and instruments used to assess students are explained. (33 references) (LRW)

Describes a study of undergraduates studying genetics that compared the effectiveness of a computer simulation used before and after formal instruction. Treatment of the experimental and control groups is explained, and results are reported which support the theory that the effectiveness of the simulation is dependent on the sequence of…

Describes a study of novice and advanced preservice teachers that explored the effect of a computer simulation on decision-making training for planning lessons. Treatments of the experimental and control groups are described, results of pretests and posttests are analyzed, and further research is suggested. (14 references) (LRW)

A computerized presentation explaining how to use the library online catalog (NOTIS) was produced at Texas A&M University. A study using students in first-year composition courses verified that students who viewed the presentation were able to use the online catalog more effectively than those who did not, especially for subject searching. (12…

The effects of teaching with analogies on students' conceptual understanding and explanations of educational computing were examined with three groups of preservice teachers in a computer literacy course. Students who were taught using complete analogies were found to have a better grasp of computing concepts than those taught using undeveloped…

The effects of variations in learner control were examined for an interactive lesson presented as a videodisc visit to an art museum. The 101 first and second grade subjects were assigned to program control, learner control, and learner control with advisement conditions, or to a control group. Data on achievement and curiosity were analyzed. (28…

Describes a research project which examined HyperCard technology in terms of its effectiveness in enhancing research strategy instruction for high school students. Comparisons are made between lectures and computer-assisted instruction, and implications for instruction are included. (EAM)

Discussion of student assessment in online learning focuses on a study conducted at the Center for Excellence in Education at Northern Arizona University that examined assessment of student's performance in Web-based and Web-enhanced coursework. Compares assessment in online courses to assessment in traditional courses based on results of a…

Discussion of distance education, developments in communication technology, and communication theory focuses on the results of a study of university students that compared the dynamics of a traditional classroom with a virtual classroom facilitated by two-way audio-video technology. Considers email use, student interaction and collaborative…

Compares computer-assisted instruction in an online library tutorial with the traditional classroom approach to bibliographic instruction. Results of pretests and posttests were compared with students who did not participate in instruction and it is suggested that further research is needed in the area of confidence levels and library use.…