Presents a matrix of skills necessary for multimedia development. Skills are identified in business, artistic, and technical areas. These skills are then applied to the following reasons for multimedia use: to condense time and material; to effect rapid skills transfer; and to manage feedback and evaluation. (MES)

Describes the basic components of a multimedia design curriculum, including conceptual coursework, technology-related coursework, final project options, and practical experience. (14 references) (MES)

Begins by discussing what interactive multimedia (IMM) is, why it is used, and how it should be evaluated. A pragmatic approach to evaluation is advocated, and a framework for formative evaluation is proposed, which focuses on formative experimentation. The educational goals of IMM technology and methods of formative experimentation are detailed.…

Describes two stages of potential development that could make multimedia the core of an information infrastructure for educational reform: (1) incorporating hypermedia to enable knowledge construction by learners; and (2) using visualization and virtual communities to create artificial worlds. (16 references) (MES)

Suggests the relative importance of the mediating and rhetorical roles of verbal language whch may be associated with nonverbal information in multimedia instructional materials, and looks to an interactional model such as Burke's pentad for an explanation of the hortatory nature of interactional communication. Thirteen references are listed.…

Describes how a videodisc of Alfred Hitchcock's film "North by Northwest" was repurposed by adding digitized and computer-generated sound, text, and graphics, to show users the capabilities of interactive multimedia. Recommendations are offered both for working in a design team and for the design of interactive materials. (LRW)

Verbal information contained in a multimedia presentation should be seen in a holistic sense. A close interrelationship exists between audio and visual; they express information for a common purpose. The task of the designer is to interweave them meaningfully. (MBR)

Discusses a new history and geography-centered curriculum for elementary and secondary school students that was developed in California and describes efforts to adopt instructional materials that include new technology and formats. Three specific technology developments in the history-social science curriculum are described. (LRW)

Examines methods of lecturing in the past, including blackboards, whiteboards, flip charts, and overhead transparencies; discusses the increasing use of computer technology and specifications for future systems; and describes possible scenarios for future lecturing technologies, including the generation of computer-assisted instructional materials…

Discusses the design of computer-based learning materials and computer-based learning environments. Topics addressed include learning strategies; the roles of the learner and the computer; appropriate information technology; the situated learning concept; learning environment metaphors; the use of microcomputers and hypermedia; and personal…

Describes the Taliesin Project, a current curriculum materials research and development effort whose main goals are (1) the development of a computer-aided classroom instructional tool for grades six through eight based on hypermedia technology, and (2) the development of a multidisciplinary curriculum to help develop stronger interests in…

Discusses design principles that apply to the creation of effective instructional hypermedia or multimedia products that meet the needs of teachers and students. Topics addressed include the adoption of technological innovations; curricular issues; the development of thinking skills; user needs; videodisks; interactive systems; context; and print…

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)