Summarizes the results of five studies dealing with screen design for computer-based instruction (CBI) and provides suggestions for their application as well as future directions for research. Chunking, text density, and screen density are discussed as variables in screen design, and current research is described. (33 references) (LRW)

Describes a study that investigated the usefulness of an interactive computer program in eliciting children's reports about an event. Compared results of interviews by computer with interviews with humans with children aged five through eight that showed little benefit in computers over face-to-face interviews. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study of undergraduates that investigated the influence of training format on knowledge structure development and how differing knowledge structure measurement techniques can be used to best assess training effectiveness. Manipulated the presence of diagrams in a computer-based training tutorial to assess mental model development and…

Discusses conceptual knowledge acquisition using computer simulation and describes a study of undergraduates that examined the role of metacognitive skillfulness and intellectual ability during initial inductive learning with a complex computer simulation. Results showed that metacognitive skillfulness was positively related to learning behavior…

Discussion of computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) focuses on the way in which current instructional design theories can be used to design collaborative learning environments in primary and secondary schools. Highlights include definitions of CSCL; CSCL research, including cognitive approach, systems design, and curricular…

Discusses the importance of screen design in computer-based instruction (CBI), and presents a framework for screen design decisions based on the ROPES (Retrieving, Orienting, Presenting, Encoding, and Sequencing) meta-model for instructional design. Psychological, instructional, and technological foundations of screen design are discussed, and…

Defines hypermedia and describes the structure and functional requirements of a hypermedia program. Potentials of hypermedia for instructional delivery, idea generation and organization, file storage and organization, and development of computer-based instruction materials are discussed. Several research issues related to instructional…

Describes a study that investigated computer anxiety among Lebanese teachers known to use computers in their regular educational programs. Highlights include use of the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale (CARS), international experiences, educational attributes including language of instruction, and computer experience. (Author/LRW)

Identifies user interface problems as they relate to computer-assisted instruction (CAI); reviews the learning theories and instructional theories related to CAI user interface; and presents potential CAI user interface improvements for research and development based on learning and instructional theory. Focuses on screen design improvements.…

Discussion of applications of computer technology in the mental health field focuses on the design, implementation, and effectiveness of an interactive generic computer program for the systematic desensitization of phobias. Guidelines for developing the program are presented; Goal Attainment Scaling is discussed; and suggestions for future…

Reviews studies investigating the relation between personality characteristics and human-computer interaction. The review is divided into three areas: (1) how personality traits are related to programing aptitude and achievement; (2) personality traits of people who use program skills in their profession; and (3) the relation between personality…

Discussion of screen layout design for computer assisted instruction focuses on the perceptions of the viewers. Combinations of text format design variables that facilitate specific learning processes are investigated; evaluative criteria for text displays are discussed; individual and group perceptions are analyzed; and future research topics are…

Discussion of expert systems focuses on knowledge acquisition methodologies and their potential application to cognitive science research and the development of instructional materials. Topics discussed include subject matter experts; types of knowledge; structured interviews; task analysis; intelligent computer assisted instruction (ICAI);…

Evaluates six "open" (empty of content and customized by users) software programs using the literature-based characteristics of documentation, learner control, branching capabilities, portability, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. Interviewed computer-knowledgeable individuals to confirm the legitimacy of the evaluative characteristics. (LRW)

Discussion of how to teach novice teachers about practical theories and the reflective process of teaching focuses on a hypermedia software system called Chronicles of Teaching. The software features prespecified cases for analysis as well as the ability to enter and link new cases from teachers' classroom observations. (LRW)