Discusses the use of open software, i.e., software which is essentially empty of content and can be customized by users to fit their own context, and describes the development and evaluation of one such program--Bubble Dialog--by the Language Development and Hypermedia Research Group at the University of Ulster. Various applications of the…

Discusses changes in media in a changing democratic society. Topics addressed include new visions of learning that incorporate computers and telecommunications; the use of multimedia and interactivity in education; the concept of a global village, with examples from CNN (Cable News Network); and changing from print literacy to media literacy. (LRW)

Examines features to consider when redesigning instructional materials to electronic format from print. Topics discussed include physical presence; human-computer interface; resolution and screen size; online help; interactivity; motion and sound; and software tools. Examples of screen designs are included. (Contains 11 references.) (LRW)