The effects of LOGO programing and computer-assisted instruction (CAI) on children's behaviors indicative of cooperative problem solving and effectance motivation were compared for 12 fourth and 28 sixth graders. Results suggest that LOGO may foster cognitive growth through opportunities for resolving cognitive conflict and may enhance effectance…

The spelling performance of 22 male and 26 female first graders using a simultaneous oral spelling method was compared when students were writing the words, spelling them with letter tiles, or typing them on a computer keyboard. Results of two experiments indicate the superiority of handwriting in improving spelling acquisition. (SLD)

Three experiments in the framework of Activity Theory explored the relationship between the questions of 104 male and 88 female adult learners (college students) and subsequent comprehension in a tutorial learning session. Questions asked during knowledge implementation aid comprehension more than do those asked during acquisition. (SLD)

Two experiments using a script for learning concrete procedures examined cooperative learning, effects of learning about equipment in advance, and retention of information over six weeks. Results from 114 undergraduates support positive effects of cooperative learning and a script incorporating simultaneous use of planning, performance, and…

The history of research on college teaching is traced, and methodologies used are highlighted. Topics reviewed include (1) class size; (2) lecture versus discussion; (3) student-centered discussion; (4) independent study and peer learning; (5) evaluation of teaching; (6) teaching and technology; and (7) impact of cognitive psychology. (SLD)

Student satisfaction with 8 methods of collecting college student evaluations of instruction was studied by asking students in 32 classes (ranging from 20 to 110 students) to rate the methods. Students prefer interview methods at midterm followed by instructor reaction to traditional approaches such as standardized end-of-course rating forms. (SLD)

The underlying structure of student ratings of instruction was explored by using 3 units of analysis: (1) individual ratings from 42,407 college students; (2) class means; and (3) deviations from class means. Class means produce a different structure, calling into question the usual robust factor structure of ratings. (SLD)

The construct validity of 14 measures used in college faculty personnel decisions was evaluated through a multitrait-multimethod matrix for data from 89 faculty members in 7 departments. The three-pronged model of teaching, research, and service was not validated. Exploratory factor analysis identified five or six behavior domains for evaluation.…

Primary research on student ratings of instruction is reviewed, and questions about the validity of such ratings as measures of teacher effectiveness are explored using nomological coding of 43 validity studies to examine causes of variability in coefficients of validity. Deficiencies of prior analyses and research needs are identified. (SLD)

Quantitative research on feedback that college teachers receive from student ratings is methodologically critiqued. The critique is based on a recently completed review and statistical study of 28 related studies by R. L'Hommedieu, R. J. Menges, and K. T. Brinko. Feedback effects may be stronger than research indicates. (SLD)

Thirty-six professors in six matched pure and applied fields of study were interviewed to determine validation processes and truth criteria used in their disciplines. Results suggest that different fields operate according to different rules. Teaching students these rules and how they affect learning is an important role of instruction. (SLD)

Relationships between colleague ratings of 29 personality traits and student ratings of teacher effectiveness were studied for 46 faculty members in 6 types of courses ranging from freshman lectures to graduate seminars in a Canadian university's psychology department. Teachers are differentially suited to different course levels because of…

Attributional retraining--a therapeutic method of reinstating psychological control--of 198 Canadian college students through a videotaped lecture enabled external locus of control students to learn more and make better use of homework study materials but offered no advantage to internal locus students. Results are interpreted in a social…

Implications of the research findings of nine papers on instruction in higher education are discussed. Faculty development is defined, and some methods of teacher evaluation that have been successful in improving teacher effectiveness are described. Emphasis is placed on the "class-side manner" of the faculty developer. (SLD)

Two studies involving 138 third graders and 18 fifth and sixth graders examined whether children's ability to revise problematic texts could be enhanced through training in a comprehension monitoring strategy. Results show that acquiring a strategy can help children make appropriate revisions to improve the text's comprehension. (SLD)