Discusses reasons for an oral introduction to instructional films, types of oral introductions--i.e., substantive, attention-directing, anxiety-inducing, and advance organizers--and research related to these four areas. Recommendations for the use of the oral introduction are also offered. (RAO)

Ausubel asserts that his work is impugned in various ways in Anderson, Spiro, and Anderson. This paper argues that a more careful reading of the original paper obviates most of Ausubel's concerns. (Author/GK)

Anderson, Spiro, and Anderson (EJ 189 658) assert that the author's assimilation theory of meaningful learning and retention is "hopelessly vague." Documented examination of these assertions indicates that they are unspecified, unsubstantiated, undocumented, and based on indisputable misrepresentation of published material and on logical…

Findings of cognitive research about teaching and learning can be applied in instruction in a number of ways: focus on core concepts, use advance organizers, teach learning strategies, allow time for practice, use interactive lecturing, be aware of learning styles, and practice such strategies as problem-based learning and case method. (SK)

This special journal edition contains research reports on children and the theatre. The seven articles discuss the following subjects: (1) how audiences function in participation plays for young people, (2) creative dramatics and handicapped children, (3) the effect of advance organizers on children's responses to theatre viewing, (4) a Piagetian…

The existing literature on reading comprehension instruction is organized and reviewed. The authors question whether explicit training to improve comprehension or monitoring strategies should be offered, since these behaviors improve with maturity and experience and in the absence of any apparent training, but conclude that it is possible that…

A review of four studies conducted by Ausubel raises serious doubts about the efficacy of advance organizers under a variety of circumstances. In addition, this review questions the adequacy of definitions for two central notions of subsumption theory (discriminability and advance organizer). (IAH)

Discusses the extent to which computers can understand natural language. Considers assertions that computers can be described as literate, and considers more generally the purpose of designing machines which perform like humans. (RS)

Ways to succeed in school and advice on reading books and textbooks are covered in four essays. The analogy of playing the "game of school" and preparing for and playing a sport is developed by Charles I. Brown in two essays. Study activities that are designed to be done before, during, and after class are suggested to help the student maximize…

A model for incorporating feature films into a course for training group facilitators is presented. Using cognitive-learning theories, the authors describe how films may be used as an advanced organizer, as the basis for student learning assessment, or as examples of specific theory in action. Specific examples are provided. (Author/EMK)

Professors need to stimulate both sides of students' brain to allow for efficient increase of information absorption. As an alternative to linear outlines, mind maps can provide for more effective comprehension as related ideas are conceptualized from the center out to supporting details, as well as from top to bottom or left to right. The mind…

This chapter presents a review of the latest research on advance organizers, and provides instructions for constructing and using them. The theoretical background of the advance organizers research is presented, beginning with the work of Ausubel, and this work is related to the writings of Piaget. An outline of advance organizer research is then…

Although listening comprehension has been identified as the first and most important foreign language skill, research has shown that little class time is devoted to developing more than very basic listening skills. Early practice in listening in a foreign language helps to develop both language skills and confidence in communicating in the target…

This paper considers ways in which the organization of text can be made explicit through verbal cuing and the ways in which this organization can be related to the cognitive processes of the reader. It is noted that the textual factors supplementary to the main content play an important part in the comprehension of text and are, thus, important…

A cause-and-effect relationship exists between the event called teaching and the event called learning. Teachers should create antecedent conditions for learning by motivating students and by using strategies such as explaining, comparing, and reinforcing. (PP)