Instructional Transaction Theory specifies a set of rules for automated instructional design and development. Components include descriptive theories of knowledge and of strategy, and a prescriptive theory of instructional design. Rules include selecting and sequencing knowledge objects, selecting and sequencing instructional transactions,…

Discusses how teachers and instructional designers can encourage critical thinking in students through epistemic games, reflective knowledge-generating activities that can be created for any knowledge domain. Provides examples for various subjects. Presents a method for organizing instructional material into appropriate epistemic forms and for…

Briefly examines research on motivation. Discusses the importance of applying motivation principles to instructional design. Describes the following motivators that can be incorporated into the context of a learning activity: action; fun; choice; social interaction; error tolerance; measurement; feedback; challenge; and recognition. (AEF)

An organization needs to establish an ideal and shared "vision" of what it, as well as society in general, should be like in the future. After the vision is set, the organization should define what it will deliver and should work cooperatively toward creating that vision. (AEF)

Reports on a 10-year investigation of the use of behavioral contingency management technology to improve low-performance students' skills, which was conducted across 17 offerings of a sophomore-level undergraduate course. Findings indicate that behavioral contracting technologies involve very little cost and produce highly effective results. (AEF)

Discussion of the use of advanced modeling and simulation technologies in training focuses on the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training program developed by the Air Force. Training challenges and needs are described and technology solutions are explained, including visual displays, computer-assisted instruction, instructional simulations, and…

Describes and advocates various technologies which have modernized the Air Force's Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT). After outlining some theoretical background, the article provides details on student proficiency profiles, the portable electronic trainer, the unit training device, specialized visual and acoustic displays, and the…

Examines research on the influence of classroom design on student learning attitudes and behavior and presents two case studies on the remodeling of five classrooms in two high schools to accommodate new instructional technology for teaching algebra. Highlights include lighting, color, surface materials, noise, climate control, and seating.…

Discusses the process of designing a series of case-based interactive videodiscs to be used within a constructivist learning environment for elementary school science. Topics include assumptions about learners and learning; implications for learning materials; and implications for the instructional design process, including process-based versus…

Discussion of educational technology innovations focuses on some of the behavioral challenges facing the drive toward multimedia instruction and suggests a method by which instructor resistance to technological change can be lessened or eliminated based on the concept of self-efficacy. A typology of instructors is explained. (Author/LRW)

Discusses the appropriate use of the instructional systems design (ISD) process and compares it to the appropriate use of the dog-breeding process according to the AKC (American Kennel Club). Topics include constructivism and objectivism, or behaviorism; instructional effectiveness; and the use of design models. (Author/LRW)

Reports the outcomes of a video conferencing trial in an undergraduate mass lecture context. Highlights effects on students and staff, and supports issues through a formative and summative evaluation. Surveys, focus groups, interviews, video recordings, exam results and reflective diaries provide data for the evaluations. (Author/AEF)

Describes the "Indirect Learning" (IDL) system, a speaking-computer-based multisensory system for teaching literacy skills of reading and spelling in children aged 6 upwards and adults, produced by Starcross. IDL measures how effectively the system remediated the reading and spelling in children and adults with poor phonological skills and/or…

A non-science undergraduate course provided an opportunity for constructivist design, (i.e., provide learners with personal control, authentic learning contexts and diverse personal interactions including collaboration) using the World Wide Web, e-mail, and video. Describes the course design, implementation, and evaluation. Concludes authentic…

Describes a CD-ROM containing a resource library for students in an information science/technology course at the Open University (United Kingdom). Development gave rise to several issues: adaptation of print-based content to the electronic medium; development of quality-control methods; and adaptation of staff roles. Feedback from students shows…