Discussion of the rhetoric of disability, including physical, hearing, and visual impairments, highlights possible benefits that computer technology can provide. Designing for disabled individuals is discussed, and product development efforts by Apple Computer to increase microcomputer access to disabled children and adults are described. (LRW)

Argues that factors that create a feeling of interactivity in the human situation--response time, spontaneity, lack of distractors--should be included as prime elements in the design of human/machine systems, e.g., computer assisted instruction and interactive video. A computer/videodisc learning system for cardio-pulmonary resuscitation and its…

Provides an overview of the design, production, and preliminary testing of a microcomputer-controlled interactive learning workstation developed at Simon Fraser University to teach French as a Second Language. Criteria and guidelines are discussed; the authoring system is explained; and field testing with grades four through seven is described.…

Briefly describes stages of the systematic design process for educational software including learning goals identification; considering medium suitability; developing performance objectives, criterion-referenced tests, and instructional strategies; and product evaluation and dissemination. Events of instruction are discussed in detail as they…

Reviews the background, concepts, and role of hypermedia systems and analyzes essential, expected, and desirable features of hypermedia in order to provide a basis for system design and evaluation. Four hypermedium shells and systems are described, and approaches to user interface problems are discussed. (48 references) (MES)

The development of adequate educational programs to provide relevant instruction to train students who will be able to compete for the computer-related jobs of the future requires an understanding not only of the curriculum development process, but also of the capabilities of the computer as an instructional device, the different instructional…

The Macintosh microcomputer was selected by Drexel University as part of a program that requires all freshman to have access to a personal computer. Because of a lack of good courseware for the chosen microcomputer, especially in electrical engineering, Drexel has provided faculty release time, several development systems, computer assisted…

In most existing computer assisted instruction (CAI), the nature of the instruction would not actually require a computer. Text is presented and read, questions are asked, and then materials are presented or reviewed depending on students' answers. There are two problems with this approach: computer capabilities for interactive task simulation are…

Describes a microcomputer-based program created for the U.S. Navy that automates curriculum development for technical training. Highlights include training program components; analysis and design of instructional materials; systematic support and management of the curriculum development process; software automation; and time and cost savings. (LRW)

VITAL (Vision Impaired Task and Assignment Lexicon) is an integrated computerized system that performs workplace design tasks for visually impaired workers. VITAL consists of three modules: ergonomics consultation, disability index, and work measurement. Evaluation indicated that VITAL could be used as a tool to help nonprofessional vocational…

Describes a Macintosh computer-based Instructional Development Model (IDioM) that provides a platform upon which an expert system for course development can be constructed. Goals of IDioM are explained, including instructional design and facilitating the development of interactive training courses; the use of HyperCard is discussed; and future…

Poorly planned implementation of microcomputers has been shown to increase stress symptoms. Concerns have also been raised about the impact of new technology on the quality of the work environment. Programming expertise alone is not sufficient to prevent these problems. This paper therefore describes the role that psychologists can play in…

A telematics and electronic communication task group examines technology's influence on the educational process as well as the physical classroom, and the needs and concerns these new technologies bring to architects and educators in designing an adaptable classroom. Technology and the classroom are examined in the following areas: the use of…

Discussion of educational computer simulations focuses on the parallel instruction theory that was developed at the University of Twente to combine the simulation with instructional materials, including those that may be printed. The MacTHESIS design system and philosophy are discussed, and simulation and learning environments based on the…

Presents a basic orientation to the functions and capabilities of disk operating systems (DOS), aimed at the nontechnically oriented user of IBM personal computers and compatible microcomputers. Areas discussed include booting up, the use of floppy and hard disks, file storage and manipulation, and directories. Further readings are provided. (CLB)