Discussion of the role of implementation mediators in implementing computer technology in schools focuses on the role of WCET Television in helping schools in Cincinnati, Ohio, to adopt computer technology. Guidelines for successful implementation are suggested which emphasize the need to understand and address resistance to change. (21…

Discusses a review of research studies on gender differences in computer-based education that revealed significant discrepancies between equality of access and performance outcomes for female and male users. Highlights include the proposed future of education and technology; math anxiety; influence of family; gender bias in software; and influence…

Describes two studies conducted in the United Kingdom that tested the effectiveness of flowcharts versus contingency statements for solving complex problems, one with secondary school students and one with senior citizens. Two measures of effectiveness are considered, speed and accuracy; and the effects of practice upon using the materials are…

Describes the evolution of courseware development and compares existing development methods, including traditional programing languages, authoring languages, and authoring systems. The use of a product which includes a customized courseware generator or authoring system is proposed, and an example is described that used HyperCard to teach the…

Examines the components of learner control, self-regulation, and the continuing motivation to learn as possible requirements and benefits of effective interactive instruction. Research literature is reviewed that addresses the interdependence of these three components, and suggestions are made for future research. (76 references) (LRW)

Discusses the integration of multiple learning goals, or objectives, into instructional design procedures. Models of instructional design are described with emphasis on human performance factors; categories of integrative goals are explained, including denoting, manifesting, and discovering; and implications for the transfer of training are…

Discusses the nature of instructional design and describes rapid prototyping as a feasible model for instructional system design (ISD). The use of prototyping in software engineering is described, similarities between software design and instructional design are discussed, and an example is given which uses rapid prototyping in designing a…

Discusses concept learning research and theory, and examines the relationship with models of instructional design. Topics discussed include how concepts are learned; how concepts are measured; instructional design for concept learning; inferences; teaching with analogies; use of learning strategies; and new strategies for classification…

Reviews current empirical data on the effectiveness of animation in computer-based instruction. Research on static visuals and learning is examined; animation research is described that includes studies with elementary school children, high school students, and adult learners; and implications for current instructional design are suggested. (56…

Describes the Interactive Video in Schools (IVIS) Programme developed in the United Kingdom; discusses IVIS as a strategy for innovation; explains various forms of software and the nature of interaction; and considers issues of interactive video and educational improvement, including integration into the curriculum and the relationship between…

Describes two studies conducted in The Netherlands that compared two modes of off-air videotape use of educational television programs on mental arithmetic for elementary students. Active use of the videotapes with interruptions for interactive teaching are compared with passive, uninterrupted viewing, and implications for the design of…

Describes study that investigated the effectiveness of a computer-based study guide using hypertext software to increase textbook comprehension among four learning-disabled students in a remedial high school social studies class. Four levels of instructional cues are described that matched students to their highest level of independent interaction…

Results of a survey of computer users in a department of business studies in a college of further education in the United Kingdom focus on human factors problems associated with computer usage. Perceptions of health-related problems are explored, and findings from questionnaires and group discussions are described. (Nine references) (LRW)

Describes a study of undergraduate students at Pennsylvania State University that was conducted to assess the impact of instructional color coding on visually and verbally oriented tests and on field dependence independence. Use of the GEFT (Group Embedded Figures Test) is discussed, and differences in cognitive processes are considered. (11…

Discussion of the use of computers in classrooms in Third World countries focuses on a survey of secondary school students in Lagos (Nigeria) that examined pupils' conception of a computer and their perceptions of the role and sociocultural consequences of computers in the classroom. (18 references) (LRW)