Discusses difficulties of producing computer assisted learning (CAL) software economically. Proposed as a solution, modular programing is illustrated by describing production of a matrix algebra package. Use of special CAL modules and facilities provided by subroutine libraries are cited, and development of a package to teach matrix theory is…

A review of the literature indicates that innovations in technology are making it possible for the consumer of information, the end user, to gather his own information online. The information specialist's role is changing from that of a researcher to a trainer and leader in the information gathering process. Reports on end user training indicate…

Discussion of past, present, and future of computer-based teaching at the undergraduate level addresses psychological, economic, and political barriers to progress; educational potential and objectives; technological developments and new organizing principles in software fostering computer-based teaching; and correct environment, support,…

The future of educational research with the videodisc is discussed in relation to: (1) recent and planned hardware developments, and (2) research areas where videodisc technology may be appropriate. Examples of some of the different configurations possible among videodisc players, microcomputers, touch screens, and printers are provided. The…

This paper contains summaries of the findings of research and meta analyses conducted on the effectiveness of computer-based instruction (CBI) on student achievement. Eight conclusions, based on the CBI research are then given: (1) when CBI and traditional instruction are compared, students receiving CBI demonstrate equal or better achievement;…

Although both the products and processes of technology have provided many means for better and faster learning at a lower cost, technology has not been implemented enough in elementary and secondary schools to make a difference in overall productivity. This is due to a basic contradiction between the organizational structure of today's schools and…

The Videodisc Interpersonal Skills Training and Assessment (VISTA) project was conceived as a means to use computer-assisted leadership training to reduce high personnel costs associated with assessment center training and simulation. Originated by the Army Research Institute's Ft. Benning Field Unit, the research effort included topic analysis,…

Discusses the importance of student attitudes as a factor in the successful implementation of computer-assisted instruction at the college level. A study that examined student attitudes and achievement when working with computer-assisted instruction in a personalized system of instruction is described. (36 references) (CLB)

This report documents an experiment to determine the training effectiveness of a microcomputer-based avionics system trainer as a cost-effective alternative to training in the actual aircraft. Participants--26 operationally qualified C-141 pilots with no prior knowledge of the Fuel Saving Advisory System (FSAS), a computerized fuel management…

This report on a symposium sponsored jointly by Unesco (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) and the Stanford University School of Education to foster understanding of the role of educational technology in educational systems and to identify needs for further research begins by summarizing international trends in the…

Discusses and compares advantages and disadvantages of large and small computer-based instructional systems. Predicted and actual costs in two systems--PLATO, which uses a mainframe system, and VITAL, a microcomputer-based system--are analyzed, and cost comparisons are made based on class size. (LRW)

The general educational research literature indicates that computer-assisted instruction (CAI) can be an effective instructional strategy. However, there is a need for methods and tools for measuring the cost effectiveness of CAI. A taxonomy for addressing questions of cost in CAI is presented. (Author/RM)

This report (1) describes a Nebraska school district's implementation of a central data processing capability and (2) summarizes study findings researched in cooperation with International Business Machines (IBM). In the mid-seventies, the district hired data processing personnel and introduced microcomputers into buildings; lack of…

This study was initiated to design, develop, implement, and evaluate a videodisc-based simulator system, the Interactive Graphics Simulator (IGS) for 6883 Converter Flight Control Test Station training at Lowry Air Force Base, Colorado. The simulator provided a means for performing task analysis online, developing simulations from the task…

This presentation provides an in-process review of researching efforts at the U.S. Army Research Institute and the Institute for Defense Analysis to update their earlier studies of Computer Based Instruction (CBI) cost-effectiveness. In the presentation five topics are addressed: (1) the differences between education and training, and why they…