Discussion of performance improvement focuses on work processes. Highlights include a definition of process; types of process steps, including operational and nonoperational; desired process characteristics, including high reliability and low variability; a comparison of two different processes; and suggestions for process improvement, including…

This approach to task analysis includes descriptions of (1) inputs, outputs, and jobs; (2) flow of materials and decisions between jobs; (3) inputs, major tasks, and outputs of each job; (4) sequence of steps for major tasks; (5) heuristics/algorithms for each sequence step; and (6) information needed to use heuristics algorithms. (EAO)

Discusses knowledge engineering, its relationship to artificial intelligence, and possible applications to developing expert systems, job aids, and technical training. The educational background of knowledge engineers is considered; the role of subject matter experts is described; and examples of flow charts, lists, and pictorial representations…

Discussion of the role of small group performance focuses on solving problems to improve performance. Types of tasks and their effects on groups are described; group resources are discussed; factors affecting group process are explained; and a flowchart for solving group performance problems is presented. (LRW)

Discussion of the performance analysis process focuses on its use in traditional educational settings to prepare students as designers and trainers in a variety of settings. A flowchart of how to conduct a performance analysis is provided, and a worksheet to guide students through the performance analysis process is included. (four references)…

Makes a distinction between the instructional development which only translates present curriculum into more effective instruction and that which develops both curriculum and instruction. A management structure for developing materials of the "translation" variety is outlined and a writing and programing technique--information mapping--is…

Presents an overview and an example of use of the Information-Visualization System, an approach to visual selection enabling educators to match desired learning outcomes with the best visuals to carry the message. Decision tables and resource book containing visual options, information types, and suggested methods of enhancing visuals are…

Discusses three task analysis techniques utilized at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station to review training programs: analysis of (1) job positions, (2) procedures, and (3) instructional presentations. All of these include task breakdown, relationship determination, and task restructuring. (MBR)

Discusses similarities and differences between structured program design and instructional design, suggests that use of structured programing by instructional designers would help them communicate with programers, describes structured program design techniques, and presents a sample application of structured programing to design an educational…

Presents a job aid for determining test-item format called TIFAID (Test Item Format Job Aid), based on adequately constructed instructional objectives. The four sections of the job aid are described: (1) a task classification system; (2) task-related questions; (3) a flowchart; and (4) a tips and techniques guide. (Contains four references.) (LRW)

Focuses on learner verification and revision (LVR), a systems approach to the evaluation of instructional materials in which materials are tested with students. Using this method to adapt internationally available materials to local needs is discussed. A flow chart of the LVR adaptation process and 31 references are included. (JJD)

Suggests approaches to improving application of knowledge derived from basic research in relevant disciplines based on investigation of methods used at Bell Telephone Laboratories. Discussion includes factors contributing to application of basic knowledge, how they contribute, favorable conditions for, steps to strengthen, and obstacles to…

Describes Mountain Bell's Computer Managed Instruction Development project; how the computer is being used to develop any type of instruction, to assist with management of course development projects, and to direct training of course developers; project field trial goals and results; project benefits; and future project orientation. (MBR)