The purpose of this experimental study was to test the role of image and animation on: a) learners' perceptions of pedagogical agent persona characteristics (i.e., extent to which agent was person-like, engaging, credible, and instructor-like); b) agent value; and c) performance. The primary analysis consisted of two contrast comparisons: 1)…

In this article, the author cites valuable lessons to be learned from reality television shows that can also be utilized by physical educators. The author states some of the reality television's messages like: (1) physical educators must know how to maximize the activity time during physical education class; (2) must have a plan of action so that…

Presents results of a case study which examined the library skills of graduate students in health education, especially in locating materials using the card catalog, periodical indexes and subject heading searches. Suggestions are made for the development of instructional materials based on these results. (CLB)

Discusses educational technology, particularly computers, and the implications that new technology has for teachers and teaching in general. Recommends preservice and inservice teacher education, indicates risks associated with technology in education, and argues the necessity of research in educational technology. Concludes that technology must…

This article describes some insights of the author based on 20 years experience in using the educational research and development process. Problems and strategies related to planning, developing a prototype, and evaluating educational programs and instructional materials are discussed. (Author/JAZ)

Describes Mountain Bell's Computer Managed Instruction Development project; how the computer is being used to develop any type of instruction, to assist with management of course development projects, and to direct training of course developers; project field trial goals and results; project benefits; and future project orientation. (MBR)

Describes the process of developing graduate courses in children's literature and library services to children. The needs of library school students electing children's services as a career option, children's literature courses available outside of library schools, and the growth of materials about children's literature are taken into…

Summarizes findings of a survey of selected members of the Association for Media and Technology in Education (Canada) to identify which instructional development field techniques they utilize and the extent of their use; presents conclusions concerning instructional development's state of the art in Canada; and discusses implications for future of…

Maintains that although women's history has made great strides in the university environment, it remains peripheral in elementary and secondary education. Suggests feasible strategies to incorporate this subject into the curriculum. Includes Peggy McIntosh's "Five Phases of Curricular Re-Vision with Regards to Gender 1983." (MJP)

This discussion of collaboration between general and special educators focuses on selection of instructional interventions in mainstream settings and curriculum-based methods of evaluating programs designed to increase the academic performance of students with and without disabilities. It then suggests ways to incorporate data-based decision…

A study examined whether instruction in collaborative skills and learning characteristics of students with mild disabilities (MD) would influence 17 preservice elementary education teachers' attitudes toward students with MD, knowledge of learning characteristics, and their instructional planning. Results found differences in instructional…

Describes the development and implementation of an interdisciplinary field course in Costa Rica focused on sustainable development. The semester-long curriculum integrated sociology, political economy, and agricultural ecology. The curriculum was empirically based and involved faculty members and students working collaboratively on different…

Examines the theoretical base of New Brunswick's recent social studies curriculum reform. New Brunswick defines its curriculum in terms of understandings, competencies, and dispositions (emphasizing independent, creative, and critical learning). Expounds on social studies that is meaningful, integrative, value-based, challenging, and active. (MJP)

Discusses a qualitative research study of children about moral consciousness. Shows children have a strong moral sense. Notes participants grappled with issues of fairness, responsibility, choice, and the value of human life. Reports that gender and age affected responses. (CAJ)

Examines the process used to develop a lesson plan from an academic research article. Includes a lesson plan developed from an article in the Spring 1997 issue of "The Journal of World History" tracing the history of jute (a substitute for flax) manufacturing in colonial India. (MJP)