Major developments in video technology, the benefits and limitations of these developments, and the application of video formats are discussed. A comparative chart details characteristics of media and indicates the instructional capabilities of various video formats, film, and instructional television in relation to each characteristic. (RAO)

A study of eighth grade science students compared the instructional effectiveness and the cost effectiveness of an interactive video system with the use of 16mm films for teaching a science unit. Results indicated that interactive video can be significantly more effective than conventional methods of instruction. (eight references) (LRW)