Describes and compares two methods for developing multimedia courseware for use on the Internet: an authoring tool called Shockwave, and an object-oriented language called Java. Topics include vector graphics, browsers, interaction with network protocols, data security, multithreading, and computer languages versus development environments. (LRW)

Reviews the development of authoring systems from those present in mainframe computers to the newest versions in desktop training systems. Advances in microcomputers and the corresponding authoring systems are described, programing languages are discussed, and computer-based instructional development that includes graphical user interfaces and…

Discusses online help systems in application software design and describes two experiments in which adult computer novices learned to use experimental graphics software by task-based exploration. Topics include operative help; function-oriented help; effects on learning performance; schemata; mental models; and implications for the design of…

Discusses factors that must be considered when designing educational software for international, multicultural use. Basic design principles are examined, including graphics and content; system factors are described, including language; cultural differences are discussed; instructional strategies are considered; and the software development process…

Describes a computer application that uses graphics, color, and animation to make the learning of statistical reasoning with uncertainty easier and more fun. Notes that the initial implementation focuses on the Dempster-Shafer model, although the design is a framework that can incorporate other models. Also discusses how the tool may be used to…

The graphical user interface (GUI) has become something of a standard for instructional programs in recent years. One type of GUI is the metaphorical type. For example, the Macintosh GUI is based on the "desktop" metaphor where objects one manipulates within the GUI are implied to be objects one might find in a real office's desktop.…

This article describes the evolution of computer interface research issues from text-based interface design guidelines to more complex issues, including media selection, interface design, and visual design. This research is then integrated into the Analysis-based Message Design (AMD) process. The AMD process divides the interface design process…

Reviews projects aimed at increasing access to software in a variety of languages and cultures, particularly the European Community project EPES (European Pool of Educational Software) that involves 12 nations and 15 languages. Translation methodology is described and possible barriers, including graphics and copyright issues, are considered.…

Explains the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery developed at the Detroit Zoo to portray nature and wildlife in their natural environments through displays on touchscreen interactive kiosks. Highlights include multimedia software development; focus group meetings; a virtual tour of the zoo; and graphics, sound, text, and video components used to create…

Discusses in detail the intricate and fascinating series of problems surrounding the production, distribution, and extended use of lessons in marine sciences that utilize remotely sensed images as the underlying medium of instruction. Focuses on computer-based learning activities because remotely sensed images are derived from the interpretation…

Describes the development of the Course Advising Tool (CAT), a microcomputer-based information retrieval program that uses hypermedia and visual programing tools to help students develop their course schedules. The use of graphical cues and nonsequential navigation is discussed, and possible extensions to the system are described. (19 references)…

Baroma (Balance of Rotating Machinery), the Web-based educational engineering interactive software for teaching/learning combines didactical and software ergonomical approaches. The software in tutorial form simulates a problem using Visual Interactive Simulation in graphic display, and animation is brought about through graphical user interface…

Providers of online information with a high visual content face an uncompromising dilemma--how to achieve fast delivery while maintaining good picture quality. As storage space or bandwidth increases, the demands placed on it by the user are always two steps ahead. Since limited bandwidth for communicating images looks like it may remain a problem…

Scenario refers to specific courses of action/events occurring within computer simulations and attempting to recreate lifelike situations. This article identifies critical features and their elements in designing effective scenarios in computer-based instructional simulations: (1) sequence; (2) operating procedures; (3) characteristics of…

Describes the role of a webmaster as designing, implementing, and maintaining an effective World Wide Web site; discusses needed skills in the areas of network configuration, interface and graphical design, software development, business strategy, writing, editing, marketing, and project management; and considers the webmaster's role in the online…