Three alternatives to instructional development are briefly described: shifting more instructional responsibility from developer to learner; implementing an instructional system utilizing paraprofessionals, content experts, and peers; and selecting and adapting existing instructional materials. (MBR)

Discusses instructional media and media selection principles that focus on solutions to learning problems. Three steps are described: (1) setting the learning objective, (2) choosing the best instructional technique, and (3) performance evaluation and feedback. Discussion explains four types of media classified by how they react to student…

Presents an overview and an example of use of the Information-Visualization System, an approach to visual selection enabling educators to match desired learning outcomes with the best visuals to carry the message. Decision tables and resource book containing visual options, information types, and suggested methods of enhancing visuals are…

The first of two articles designed to provide guidelines for the instructional development phase of instructional systems development focuses on general instructional methods supporting all instructional tasks. Teaching methods that support selective attention, processing in working memory, and connecting in long-term memory are described and…

Examines two key considerations related to the question of whether computer-based training is justified--training objectives, and costs of developing computer-based programs. Questions on training content, skills to be performed by trainees, specific training objectives, development and revision costs, salaries, and cost estimates are presented to…

Presents several steps for developing computer based learning materials, and shows that they can be less expensive to design and implement than those that are developed using other media. (MER)

One in a continuing series on visual aids, this article presents rules for the use of visuals in information presentations and orientations. Topics discussed include ambiguity and unanswered questions; the need for a cost/benefits analysis; appropriate visual styles; media selection; and the effects of visualizations on performance. (LRW)

Argues that corporation trainers need to capitalize upon technological innovations to create more efficient and effective training programs, compares training alternatives, and provides models for determining costs for students, instructors, facilities, administration, and instructional development, as well as the total corporate training cost.…

Examines an instructional systems design (ISD) model used by Bell Laboratories as an illustration of how heuristics can be brought to bear upon the design and development of instructional materials. Ten references are listed. (Author/MER)

Presents a decision model for selecting interactive media formats to solve human performance problems in organizations. Training problems and motivational problems are discussed, change strategies and assessment of values and aptitudes are described, and case studies that apply the decision model are included. (LRW)

Reviews current research on different learning styles and capabilities of experts and novices which may guide software design: memory, cognitive processing, and performance differences; automatization, and coping strategies. Procedures which may enhance expert and novice performance when built into software are outlined. (MBR)

Discusses incremental decisions that need to be made when selecting a videodisc system and presents guidelines for moving through the learning and decision-making process. Guidelines cover understanding the technology, understanding the videodisc project process, composing the project team, establishing requirements and considering the budget, and…