Discusses the use of interactive media in computer-based training and describes a workbook and software package--Interactive Toolkit--designed for students learning to use interactive media. The package covers the basics of instructional design and how interactive media works, and a simple authoring system for creating computer-based training…

Describes the use of HyperCard to author interactive Spanish videodisc using a videodisc version of "Zarabanda," a Spanish-instruction soap opera. An explanation of hypermedia is followed by a discussion of how to create courseware with HyperCard, and by specific examples of the application of HyperCard to "Zarabanda."…

Describes Philips Interactive Laser Vision Authoring System (PHILVAS), a special-purpose authoring system designed to prepare programs for controlling interactive video systems. Ease of authoring with PHILVAS is illustrated by a case study and comparisons with two other dialog programing tools. Advantages of PHILVAS are listed. (MBR)

The need to include an audio component in computer-assisted instruction in French is discussed and an attempted solution is described in terms of a suite of programs designed to facilitate the creation and use of dictation practice materials. (Author/SED)

Offers suggestions for designing and writing educationally effective computer lessons, outlining the instructional applications of computers. Also presents directives on lesson preparation, program format, graphics use, screen design and question schemata. Problem solving and integrative aspects of computerized instruction are stressed. (ML)

Makes suggestions and forecasts relating to the nature of the developing partnership between teachers, students, and microcomputers and to the development and use of educational software to truly optimize learning in United Kingdom schools. (MBR)

Outlines several factors to be considered by teachers when designing text displays for computer assisted instruction. Types of frames--introductory, pretesting, teaching/testing, practice, criterion testing, and rule-example--are defined and discussed to aid developers in organizing a computer assisted instruction lesson. (MBR)

Following a brief description of types of computer assisted instruction (tutorial, drill and practice, and simulation/games), this document provides the following BASIC programming routines: variable typing, range error maskings, default entries, having user check input, allowing users to change input, response checker for numbers, response…

Describes the development of ScriptWriter, a computer program designed at the University of Southern California to help create software for computer assisted instruction. Topics discussed include the graphics editor; text editor; font editor; a programming language called IQ; its use with interactive video and speech; and current applications.…

An alternative approach to the systematic design and development of computer-assisted instruction courseware by classroom teachers is described which consist of three main stages of design, development, evaluation, and revision. Each stage produces a usable output: (1) computer-assisted testing program; (2) drill and practice courseware; and (3)…

Surveys current state-of-the-art in courseware development for microcomputers; discusses guidelines for overall program and screen display design; describes three major approaches to developing courseware--programing language, authoring system, or authoring language use; and reviews two current research areas--automated instructional development…

Explores instructional design aspects of authoring software used to develop computer-assisted instruction; discusses nature of authoring languages and systems; describes instructional design implications and practical considerations in using authoring systems; and outlines needed developments in authoring software including intelligent tutoring…

Presents suggestions for selecting authoring systems based on reviews of over one dozen systems; defines authoring systems; discusses their potential benefits; introduces background evaluation concepts; describes procedures for collecting information about system attributes; and presents a system selection checklist and an authoring system…

Describes use of authoring systems--software packages which guide authors through the programming process, eliminating the need to know how to program--as a practical solution to the problem of teachers developing their own microcomputer courseware. Some representative authoring systems, their benefits and costs, and specific products are…

This theme issue provides brief descriptions or reviews of specific authoring tools including the Digital, TenCORE, EASE, Courseware (Apple), and PLATO authoring systems. Articles on conceptual or practical issues emerging from extensive experience in specific settings or based on use of specific authoring systems are also presented. (MBR)