Examines two instructional strategies, the traditional and learning cycle approaches, and compares them with regard to the variables of sequence, format, and necessity. Concludes that students exposed to the laboratory and discussion type had higher test scores than those in the lecture or reading groups. (Author/RT)

"Teaching Sociology" recently published several articles dealing with the use of computer-assisted pedagogical techniques. Many authors assess the effectiveness of specific computer-assisted instruction (CAI) forms by examining either student performance or student course evaluation. Typically one group uses some form of CAI while the other does…

The present study drew on existing theories and research to further uncover the mysteries of the college teaching/learning paradigm, particularly the causal links between effective instruction and student learning of novel lecture material. The experimental design involved 380 introductory psychology students and consisted of a Lecture…

The results of a three-year project introducing small-group experiential learning techniques into a traditionally structured first-year lecture course are presented. Ways to introduce the techniques into large classes with no increase in resources are discussed. (MSE)

Discusses four pedagogical issues that arise in teaching policy analysis to undergraduates. Describes three components of the case method approach. Outlines areas where the case method approach improved student performance and identifies its limitations. (CFR)

This article presents a case study of the impact on student learning of introducing an electronic voting system (EVS) into large-group lectures for first-year undergraduate students undertaking degrees in marketing and business systems. We discuss the potential for using EVS-style interactive lectures in marketing and business programmes. We then…

This study explored differences between students studying introductory statistics in a strictly lecture type setting against those in an environment where the lectures are driven by computer software. A 20-item multiple-choice questionnaire was developed covering the main concepts of a first course in statistics. Included were questions on the…

Three approaches to teaching moral reasoning were implemented by expert teachers in classes at three small colleges and outcomes were compared. Teaching models included the following: Model A, a "good reasoned" approach in which students discussed scenarios and determined the best course of action; Model B, a teacher-centered lecture,…

A study investigated the effectiveness of combined lecture and computer demonstration to train third-year pharmacy students (n=48) in computerized information retrieval. Results show the method to be effective in helping students translate Boolean logic into search strategies. The importance of improving pharmacy students' literature retrieval…

Describes study of undergraduates that explored potential effects of instructional television (ITV) lecture presentation styles on student learning and acceptance. Eye contact and interspersed questioning techniques are emphasized, four treatment styles are explained, results are analyzed, and further research studies are suggested. (44…

A study compared the performances of Wake Forest University (North Carolina) medical students rotating through an internal medicine program, 88 in a problem-based curriculum and 364 in a lecture-based curriculum. Students in the problem-based curriculum received significantly higher ratings from house staff and faculty on four clinical rating…

A survey of 40 British university students in their third year of history study investigated student motivation in studying history, the role of the teacher, characteristics of good and bad seminars, effectiveness of the lecture method, and perceptions of different student assessment methods. (MSE)

A required graduate-level dental biochemistry course was designed to combine traditional lecture, student presentations, case studies, and computer-assisted lecture presentations and handouts, combining the high efficiency of lecture-based information transfer with active computer-based learning. Student motivation increased, and assimilation of…

This monograph examines the nature of active learning at the higher education level, the empirical research on its use, the common obstacles and barriers that give rise to faculty resistance, and how faculty and staff can implement active learning techniques. A preliminary section defines active learning and looks at the current climate…

Argues that the fragmentary nature of mass media has made students suspicious of the traditional lecture format. Recommends that history teachers incorporate questions concerning source material and knowledge (e.g. How do I know this?) into their presentations. Suggests a number of activities and texts that can be used to involve students in…