Reviews overall structure and design principles of a knowledge-based programming support tool, the Knowledge-Based Programming Assistant, which is being developed at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The system's major units (program design program coding, and intelligent debugging) and additional functions are described. (MBR)

Historically, educational institutions have largely relied on in-house development of administrative software. However, the costs of skilled programmers and rapidly advancing technology are making in-house development too expensive. These and other factors are addressed and changes needed for future educational administrative computing support are…

Describes six techniques used in converting nutrition education materials to software systems for Apple microcomputers. Areas addressed include controlling pace of the program, simplifying student directions, ensuring user-friendly feedback, deterring tampering with the programs, providing time-efficient record keeping, and preventing abnormal…

Discusses an algorithm for developing problem solving simulations using microcomputers, and describes both the components of the simulation algorithm and the user interface. Examples of simulation and programming methods are presented. (MBR)

Explains the function of computer programing languages, noting the difference between high and low level languages, and describes the concept of authoring systems which enable nonprogramers to develop computer-assisted instructional materials. Eight programing languages and their educational applications are listed. (EAO)

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…

Provides answers to nine myths about computers, including computers are invaluable for school and home use; programing experience means job security; teachers will develop their own software; computers make good teachers; computer experts will form an elite social class; and computers increase student achievement. (JN)

Some ways of producing quality software for language instruction are discussed, including three kinds of systems: authoring or template, freeform, and hybrid. Special features and possible advantages and disadvantages of each type are considered. (Author/MSE)

Reviews reasons for the decision to change from a timeshare minicomputer to microcomputers, financial considerations involved, the purchase of hardware, the problem posed by the lack of compatible software for the microcomputers, and the development of the Assisted Instructional Development System (AIDS) for adapting minicomputer software and…

Discusses topics and issues related to (1) international impact of microcomputers; (2) minimum guidelines for software development; (3) achieving minimum standards; and (4) accomplishments in the areas of introductory chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and physical chemistry. Challenges for the future are noted. (JN)

Discusses a computer software program called "The Author" which allows computer-assisted instruction lessons to be written by an instructor with no programing experience. The authoring system provides printed formatting sheets which enable the instructor to write out lesson text, questions, and instructions prior to entering them on the…

Explains the role of authoring languages in the development of courseware material for use in computer-assisted instruction and describes examples available on small, medium, and large computers with emphasis on the language/author interface. Briefly considers authoring language evaluation, system integration, and distribution of courseware. 82…

Discusses a computer-assisted instruction authoring aid called PROFORMA which converts ordinary text into output on a computer screen in a format which contains, as desired, framed tables, reverse video, boldface print, moving text, and question-and-answer sequences. Use of PROFORMA in the teaching of French is discussed. (Author/JJD)

Provides a checklist of stylistic elements to consider when writing simulation programs for use in computer assisted instruction. Subtopics include setting simulation parameters, questioning the user, displaying the results, and overall simulation organization. (JJD)

Presents an overview of Instructional Programming System, an authoring tool used for production of programs for computer-assisted instruction, including its language, structure, and mode of operations. Illustrative examples of use and results of initial investigations of its potential as tool in open-learning environment are given. Eighteen…