Each designer contributing to this special issue was asked to prepare an introductory lesson on the physics of motion aimed at eighth to eleventh graders. This article presents a brief description of how a detailed physics content was researched, edited, and refined by subject-matter experts, and then ultimately presented to the instructional…

These designers approaches their physics lesson design task from the viewpoint of play. The designs, all having strong gaming influences, aim to be flexible enough to take advantage of the experience and ideas of a teacher working with a standard curriculum, yet interesting enough for students to want to continue exploring resources on their own…

This instructional design blends a structured learning environment (the physics lesson) with an engaging, playful, simulated environment (roller coaster construction), putting into operation ideas from both cognitive and constructivist theories. Two instructional models are used: a general design model for creating instruction and a lesson design…

This instructional design looks at momentum in physics through railroading, to assist students in developing appropriate mental models that will enable them to solve problems relevant to the process or principle being taught. A PEAnet (process, entity, activity network) relationship enables an instructional visualization (simulation) in which…

This instructional design sought to create an easily graspable application of physics principles. It took an engineering slant on the content, asking students to investigate physics by attempting to increase the productivity of a "Splam-canning" plant. Design strategies are outlined for six science principles and eight product utilization…

Summarizes a discussion by the authors of this special issue that took place after the five instructional designers created lesson plans for the same design task. Highlights include the specified content's convergent effect on the designs; design philosophies; things that surprised the designers; and their favorable responses. (AEF)

Discussion of the need for training and lifelong learning in light of new information and communication technologies focuses on small businesses with few employees who need rapid and continuous training. Topics include communities of practice; network-based learning; distance education; enterprise training; mutual training; knowledge creation;…

Presents a conceptual model of relationships among variables to guide the design of research in technology-mediated learning environments based on sociocultural and constructivist principles, for framing questions and for generating hypotheses about the social dimensions of learning developments with influences from the cultural context. (Contains…

Discusses the development of online courses in higher education and the use of the Web for new modes of communication and information retrieval. Describes a study that examined instructional design for Web-based instruction and suggests implications for the conceptualization of a collaborative model for the design of online courses. (LRW)

Discusses interactivity in Web-based learning and provides a framework of interaction attributes that can be used to select strategies and tactics to facilitate interaction on the Web. Topics include interaction with content; social interaction; instructor-centered approach; student-centered approach; collaboration; conversation; intrapersonal…

Discussion of constructivism in learning focuses on a working constructivist framework for electronic learning that balances the individual and social perspectives. Presents two models of electronic learning: the first uses a traditional approach that focuses on the best use of media, and the second focuses on personalization and relationships.…

Discusses knowledge engineering, computer software, and possible applications in the field of education. Highlights include the distinctions between data, information, and knowledge; knowledge engineering as a subfield of artificial intelligence; knowledge acquisition; data mining; ontology development for subject terms; cognitive apprentices; and…

Discusses Web-based distance learning and emphasizes the importance of human interaction and facilitation to ensure successful programs. Topics include corporate use of distance learning as well as academic institutions; cost effectiveness; dropout rates; social processes; avoiding technical problems; peer support systems; orientation; and student…

Explains the instructional planning self-reflective tool (IPSRT) that can be used to facilitate self-regulatory strategies, specifically self-monitoring and self-evaluation, in instructional planning for pre-service teachers. Discusses traditional instructional systems design, the importance of lesson planning, instructional goals and objectives,…

Describes an integrated instructional design approach that addresses cognitive, attitudinal, and behavioral aspects of learning and is based on three theoretical frameworks: instructional systems design, social learning theory, and the stages of change framework provided in the Transtheoretical Model of Change. (LRW)