Examines new types of educational software. Topics addressed include electronic performance support systems (EPSSs); other examples of electronic support; a systems approach and a human approach to identifying a common category for EPSSs; users' activities and needs; feedback; hybrid EPSSs; and design guidelines. (35 references) (LRW)

SPIRIT is an Intelligent Tutoring System for tutoring probability theory which has evolved through a continuous process of experimentation and tuning. The system manages a unique flexible tutoring style. On one hand, the system may behave as a tutor who mostly observes the student without interference, intervening only when things are really going…

Reviews possible sources of reinforcement in computer assisted instruction and systematic utilization of these sources in courseware design. Sources reviewed include reinforcement from the machine itself; from the content of the instructional modules and its arrangement in a learning sequence; and from sources external to the modules. (MBR)

Discusses how to design courseware programs that integrate benefits of instructionism (linear instruction) and constructionism in a hypermedia structure. A model of feedback that fades in and out is suggested, four examples are explained, and suggestions for redesigning programs are given. (LRW)

Reviews characteristics of computer-based training (CBT) that make application of communication theories appropriate and presents principles from communication theory (e.g., general systems theory, symbolic interactionism, rule theories, and interpersonal communication theories) to illustrate how CBT developers can profitably apply them to…

In early computer assisted instruction (CAI), negative feedback often insulted students and/or provided no useful knowledge. In classroom settings, teachers use the following approaches in dealing with students' wrong answers: (1) ask the question again, louder and slower; (2) ask the question again, using different words; (3) back up and reteach…

Substantial institutional support is necessary for computer assisted language learning (CALL) research and development that strongly involves language teaching specialists. Much greater author control is needed over several aspects of typical drill-and-practice tutorial CALL to create more sophisticated programs with more flexible feedback…

Describes the creation and use of an interactive tutorial for college students on the Declaration of Independence, called "Political Society and You." Activities that emphasize critical reading and historical interpretation are discussed, the computer software is explained, and the response form used for student feedback is described.…

Describes an intelligent tutoring system (ITS) that demonstrates how intelligent feedback can enhance conventional simulation-based training. An explanation is given of the Intelligent Conduct of Fire Trainer (INCOFT), which was designed to provide training exercises for soldiers operating the PATRIOT missile system, and its implications for…

Discusses the costs of producing durable educational software in an academic environment and describes an optimized software life cycle that has been implemented at the University of Cambridge (England) Engineering Department. Topics addressed include needs assessment; specifications; program design; implementation and testing; feedback; and…

Design issues in development of InSight software for optometric education include choice of hardware, identification of audience, definition of scope and limitations of content, selection of user interface and programing environment, obtaining user feedback, and software distribution. Pedagogical issues include practicality and improvement on…

Explains the history of IMMEX (Interactive Multi-Media Exercises) and its evolution into a Web-delivered, interactive software program, which assesses student understanding of curriculum in K-16 classrooms by tracking its application in real-world, problem-solving scenarios. Discusses performance feedback for teachers and students, and offers…

Describes the Hypertutor Model, a message design framework for interactive instructional systems that emphasizes learner control, presentation, practice, feedback, and learning resources. Problems with software designed for computer assisted instruction are examined; hypertutor systems are discussed; and MegaMentor, a hypertutor system at the…

Academic Systems Corporation is successfully producing courseware in beginning, intermediate, and college algebra using mediated learning, which provides students with instruction and exercises and teachers with feedback on student progress. The courses present students with real-world problems to solve. Users find the courses pedagogically sound…

Presents guidelines for determining when interactive courseware requiring single-keypress responses (multiple choice answers) and constructed responses (typed-in answers) are appropriate for use in the classroom. Research findings of studies concerned with these response types are briefly discussed, and needs for further research are outlined.…