AbstractThe educational effectiveness of illustrations, visual‐based instructional media, programmed learning, computer assisted learning, audio‐tutorial instruction, organization of groups, and mastery learning strategies, are discussed. Attention is drawn to those aspects which produce educationally significant improvements in student performance. It is suggested that this research, which clearly indicates a variety of ways in which levels of attainment can be greatly enhanced, is being ignored in new curriculum developments. The author concludes that the improvements sought by educationists and politicians will not be achieved until the knowledge gained from many years of research is acted u