STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) disciplines are considered key to the scientific and economic improvement in the United States. As noted by the Carnegie Corporation of New York (2011), we need a nation in which "all" teachers and thus, all students, are "STEM-capable" (p. 2), that is, equipped with a broad…

Critical thinking, viewed as rational and analytic thinking, is crucial for participation in a knowledge economy and society. This article provides a brief presentation of the importance of teaching critical thinking in a knowledge economy; suggests a conceptual model for teaching thinking; examines research on the historical role of teachers in…

This article describes instructional theory that supports post-industrial education and training systems--ones that are customized and learner-centered, in which student progress is based on learning rather than time. The author discusses the importance of problem-based instruction (PBI), identifies some problems with PBI, overviews an…

Discussion of educational systems design describes four systems levels that can be emphasized: learning experience, instructional, administration, and governance levels. Factors to be considered in selecting a focus level and the implications of focusing on the learning experience level are discussed; and a table comparing instructional and…

Provides suggestions and concerns for integrating open learning and distance education concepts into a course designed for adult lifelong learners. Topics include a shift in educational paradigms from teacher-centered to learner-centered approaches, constructivism, restructuring the social context, and the use of media. (LRW)

Discussion of the integration of educational technology focuses on Internet integration in classrooms and its effect on students' learning and teacher-student relationships. Describes results of a study of Internet use among undergraduates, including positive and negative influences on student learning and the effects of Internet use on classroom…

Discusses a process in which stakeholders in a community can engage to advance their thinking about beliefs regarding education and ideal visions of education, as a first step toward educational reform. Also presents some beliefs about education that include the roles of students, teachers, parents, administration, and the community. (LRW)

Places three interrelated trends in online learning (reusable learning objects, blended learning, and instructional design) within the context of schools. Highlights include the need for collaboration and cooperation among schools; learning management systems; acquainting teachers with instructional design principles; redefining the roles of…

Discusses differences between instructional efficiency and instructional effectiveness, and proposes that environmental analysis should be incorporated into the front-end analysis stage of instructional design to increase instructional success. Highlights include the teachers' role; the students' role; physical aspects; use aspects; and management…

Discusses changes in models of education and teaching that affect the roles of educational technologists. A review of schooling models of the past, present, and future emphasizes a shift from traditional teacher and student roles to more democratic, individualized instruction; and McBeath's transformational model for change is considered. (15…

Discusses the use of computer-mediated communications for student learning and for teacher collaborations. The use of local area networks and electronic bulletin boards is described, new networks that will serve the needs of students and teachers are discussed, and theoretical and practical approaches to research and analysis are considered. (20…

Describes the formative evaluation of computer-based multimedia programs on CD-ROM that were developed in South Carolina to encourage middle school students to explore various environmental careers. Three main areas of evaluation are discussed: (1) user evaluation; (2) functional evaluation; and (3) content evaluation. The role of students and…

Examines the roles and responsibilities of students, faculty, facilitators, support staff, and administration in distance education. Highlights include strategies for dealing with special challenges of distance learners and educators and a list of characteristics of effective distance teaching. (three references) (MES)

Discusses pertinent issues relating to implementing online learning models in a higher education context. These issues include the changing roles of staff and students as they adopt new learning approaches; the notions of flexible learning and delivery; and the quality of education provided. (AEF)

Discusses ways to teach learning systems design. Elements in the design process are considered, including learning in context, modeling of expert thought processes, and reflection; the use of roleplays, simulations, and case studies is explored; and development and testing of a prototype application consisting of videotaped interviews with an…