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…

This discussion of issues to be considered in setting up an efficient computer classroom focuses on the selection, preparation, and furnishing of facilities intended for instructional use: selection and room preparation; power, lighting, and telecommunication; avoidance of equipment problems; and furniture selection. (11 references) (MBR)

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…

Discusses conflict between instructional potential of interactive videodiscs and interests of educational publishers and proposes a generic videodisc as a solution. Generic disc design preferences, equipment needed by teachers to program various learning options to adapt materials to local needs, and a list of videodisc authoring systems are…

Summarizes the National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety's recommendations for computer stations in industrial settings and proposes their adaptation to educational institutions. The human side of computer applications is stressed; solutions to educational problems are described; and a checklist of requirements for student comfort is…

Explains how current commercial expert system technology can be used to create useful job aids. Expert systems are defined, situations in which an expert system job aid will be most effective are described, expert system shells are discussed, and three commercial expert system products are described. (LRW)

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…

Considers the concept of virtual reality; reviews its history; describes general uses of virtual reality, including entertainment, medicine, and design applications; discusses classroom uses of virtual reality, including a software program called Virtus WalkThrough for use with a computer monitor; and suggests future possibilities. (34 references)…

Reviews relevant features for interactive video images of the four primary technologies that merge to intertwine themselves in interactive video (computers, television, instructional design, visual design); outlines critical structural elements of interactive video; and presents guidelines for creating interactive video images. (MBR)

Discusses advantages and disadvantages of the Apple microcomputer version of the authoring language Programmed Inquiry, Learning, or Teaching (PILOT) and provides suggestions as to how it might best be used for computer- assisted instruction. Eleven references are cited. (EJS)

Describes hypertext, a significantly different form of data retrieval, and gives an example of how it might be used in computer-based training. Hypertext software is discussed, including TextPro and KnowledgePro; the relationship between hypertext and expert systems is explored; and a hypertext document, PC-Hypertext, is described. (LRW)

Reviews factors that have delayed use of expert system authoring tools in education and describes applications of two such tools--Expert-Ease and M.1.--to special education. Learning to use the tools, creating programs, and consulting the systems are the topics covered. Sources for further information on expert systems are provided. (MBR)

Examines forms of media in today's electronic environment including television, microcomputers, video games, and music television, and considers these media forms and their effects on cognitive processing. Implications for teachers and instructional designers in achieving curricular balance between print and electronic media are discussed. (MBR)

Discusses design and evaluation issues relating to computer managed instruction (CMI). Major functions described include establishing identification database, processing performance data, report formulation, and utility functions. Evaluation issues discussed include customized versus generic CMI, user-friendliness, documentation, data entry…

Discusses use of the computer (which could be a word processor, mini-, or microcomputer) in the area of written composition and revision of text. Implications of this new writing tool are highlighted, including benefits in composing and revision strategies. (EJS)