Learning is a social activity, which requires interactions with the environment, tools, people, and also ourselves (e.g., our previous experiences). Each interaction provides different meanings to learners, and the associated emotion affects their learning and performance. With the premise that emotion and cognition are distributed, the authors…

Describes features that can increase quality of student interaction in computer based materials, with emphasis on interactive videodisc projects. The features discussed include nonlinear format, user-control options, feedback that ensures remediation, modular content organization, program flexibility to accommodate individual user needs, and…

Describes instructional transactions as patterns of learner interactions designed to enable learners to acquire certain kinds of knowledge or skill and identifies four primary components of an interaction shell: interactions and an interaction manager, instructional parameters, a knowledge base, and a resource database. Transaction shell authoring…

Suggests that most instructors, administrators, and software developers assume that online interaction collaboration among students must follow the same format as traditional interaction in face-to-face classrooms. Describes examples of virtual classrooms that use the Web to create new kinds of possibilities for collaboration and learning. (LRW)

Describes two experiments on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) interaction in which interactional analysis is utilized to provide information on the interaction of students with microcomputers. It is suggested that interactional analysis is the key to improving the design and application of CAI materials. (MBR)

Examines the relationship between instructional technology and cognition and discusses interactions between the learner and instructional media. Models of the learning process are described, including reactive, proactive, and interactive models; examples of each are given; and their implications for instructional design are suggested. (LRW)

Discusses learner/computer interaction, learner control, sequencing of instructional events, and graphic screen design as effective principles for the design of instructional software, including tutorials. (MBR)

The use of Learner Centered Psychological Principles in instruction and training emphasizes self-motivated, self-directed, and interactive learning. Topics include traditional versus learner-centered instructional approaches, the Learner-Centered Psychological Principles, the challenge of designing learner-centered instruction, and…

Defines cognitive computer tools as software programs that use the control capabilities of computers to amplify, extend, or enhance human cognition; suggests seven ways in which computers can aid learning; and describes the "Learning Tool," a software package for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer that is designed to aid learning of…