Educational technology refers not only to the hardware and software used in an educational setting but also to learning through use of technological resources. RAND's research into educational technology includes the study of distributed learning and interactive multimedia instruction in the military, computers in schools, and the role of the Internet in educational settings.
REPORT
Carnegie Learning's Cognitive Tutor Algebra I (CTAI) curriculum is a technology-based curriculum that combines classroom instruction with individualized instruction by a computer-based tutor. This report examines the cost of implementing CTAI and comparison algebra I curricula, including costs associated with textbooks and software, computers, and teacher training.
REPORT
An assessment of The Army Distributed Learning Program (TADLP) found that it has had a relatively narrow focus and has provided, at best, a modest benefit to unit readiness. Major changes are needed to meet increasing DL requirements within the Army. Several near-term initiatives are proposed for the Army's interactive multimedia instruction program to improve both the quality of the product and the efficiency and responsiveness of the…
RESEARCH BRIEF
Develops and tests an approach to program-level assessment of interactive multimedia instruction (IMI) courses that identifies strengths and deficiencies in technical, production quality, and pedagogical aspects of IMI courseware.
REPORT
This report presents results of a preliminary assessment of the National Science Foundation's National Science Digital Library/Distributed Learning (NSDL) program based largely on existing data and makes recommendations for the design of a full formative evaluation. The authors explore the state of health of the STEM resource collections, the availability of web metrics to probe their use, and the potential usability and impact of…
REPORT
Distributed learning (DL) is a key element of the Army's training strategy, and the Army plans to expand the use of DL and change how it is developed and delivered. Several studies were undertaken to develop and test new tools and metrics to assess training and to document the impact of Army DL courses at the program level. The project also assessed the abilities of Army information systems to support efficient data collection for DL…
REPORT
Examines educational approaches that would customize U.S. Air Force training to the individual, with the intent of minimizing time in training, focusing on the trainee's needs, and getting the trainee productive sooner, all leading to reduced costs. Recommends that the Air Force conduct some experiments with Air Force vocational training before implementation across Air Force training is considered.
JOURNAL ARTICLE
This paper sets out to understand how teachers and school leaders in England perceive the benefits and effectiveness of CPD activity.
REPORT
This report describes the development and test of a program-level approach to evaluating the quality of interactive multimedia instruction (IMI) in The Army Distributed Learning Program. Application to a sample of recently fielded courses demonstrates a feasible method for evaluation that provides metrics about IMI quality and points to directions for needed improvements in technical, production quality, and pedagogical aspects of IMI…
REPORT
This study examined how the Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) Initiative might encourage the reuse of digital training content as a strategy to reduce the cost of its development. While findings highlighted a number of current challenges with the reuse option, one conclusion is that ADL can foster more reuse by taking a proactive approach in supporting training development organizations that are attempting to implement a reuse strategy.
NEWS RELEASE
April 5, 2007 news release: U.S. Education Department Gives RAND $6 Million Grant to Evaluate Math Curriculum of Carnegie Learning.
COMMENTARY
Published commentary by RAND staff: When Students Disappear..., in Education Week.
REPORT
A multiyear, National Science Foundation-funded study found weak positive associations between reform-oriented mathematics and science instruction and achievement. Encouraging teachers to adopt such instruction is unlikely to be an effective strategy for promoting large and rapid student improvement.
REPORT
The U.S. Army is pursuing an ambitious plan to convert many of its courses to distributed learning (DL). This report reviews the state of research on learning in DL and presents recommendations for (1) a research agenda for DL, (2) methodological strategies to improve DL research, and (3) policies to support DL design, implementation, and evaluation. These recommendations can help the Army use DL to realize its vision of transforming…
REPORT
This report describes an alternative business model for buying simulations and simulation training. This model hopes to align the financial incentives of industry participants with positive training and technology development outcomes by turning the acquisition of training simulators into a service acquisition with a private sector “tool vendor” marketplace to support it. The report examines the model in light of economic…
REPORT
The eArmyU continuing education program allows enlisted soldiers to earn college credits while on active duty. This study sought to determine how to make eArmyU available to more individuals while controlling program costs. Historically, the program”s primary cost had been attributed to the laptop computer it provides. This study examined how the existing eArmyU program, as well as how removing the laptop or other provisions, affect…
REPORT
Some argue that computer technology can facilitate learning by enhancing students’ ability to experiment, practice, and experience the real world. Others feel that spending money on such technology is not worth it. In 1996, Kent School embarked on a program to integrate information technology into teaching and learning. Data about participants’ use of the technology were gathered through surveys, interviews, and focus groups…
REPORT
This report presents a limited evaluation of the implementation and impact of a district-wide educational technology initiative involving provision of laptop computers to children in grades 3-12 and wireless Internet connections at schools and homes. The findings of this study lead to a set of recommendations for future implementation, and a conceptual framework and research design for use in conducting a more comprehensive future…
JOURNAL ARTICLE
Describes an approach to addressing the challenges of evaluating large-scale, multisite educational reforms aimed at changing classroom practice. The authors gathered data from 11 sites and investigated relationships both at the site level and pooled across sites. They found small but consistent positive relationships between teachers’ reported use of standards-based instruction and student achievement.
JOURNAL ARTICLE
Computer-based interactive videos can be used to educate family members of nursing home residents on dementia care.
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