In this paper, an instructor at Miami University Middletown (Ohio) describes how Authorware (by Macromedia) proved to be a valuable tool in developing interactive computer tutorials for physics instruction. Obstacles to improved instruction that had presented themselves were as follows: (1) some of the students' learning styles were not being…

This hands-on guide shows readers how to use HyperCard software to create instructional programs on the Macintosh computer. The book describes how to choose subject matter, design a program, and determine the method of presentation, including the type of interaction and guiding metaphors that will be used. It explains how to make programs easy for…

This book shows how and why the computer is so well suited to producing discovery learning environments. An examination of the literature outlines four basic modes of instruction: didactic, Socratic, inquiry, and discovery. Research from the fields of education, psychology, and physiology is presented to demonstrate the many strengths of…

This paper describes the Guided Approach to Instructional Design Advising (GAIDA), an automated instructional design tool that incorporates techniques of artificial intelligence. GAIDA was developed by the U.S. Air Force Armstrong Laboratory to facilitate the planning and production of interactive courseware and computer-based training materials.…

Hypertext is well-suited for educational applications where open learning and knowledge exploration is desired. In such applications, principles of good hypertext interface design should be employed to avoid navigational problems so as to maximize learning. Interface design, however, may also directly enhance acquisition of a particular knowledge…

Experience has shown that the production of rich-media content for Web-based courses tends to be extremely cost- and time-consuming. One way for campus-based universities to reduce authoring costs is to automate the production process by using suitable tools for capturing live lectures. This paper describes different technical approaches to…

Discusses teachers' use of authoring programs to design their own computer-assisted instructional materials that may include text, graphics, video, and sound. The Instructional Theory Into Practice Model is described that includes five components: anticipatory set, instruction, guided practice, closure, and independent practice. (LRW)

When using spreadsheets to explore real-world problems involving periodic change, students can observe what happens at each period, generate a graph, and learn how changing the starting quantity or constants affects results. Spreadsheet lessons for high school students are presented that explore mathematical modeling, linear programming, and…

This article provides a rationale for educators to use multimedia computer technologies to create individualized computer-based instructional materials for students with autism. Software design guidelines based on empirical research are presented, along with detailed descriptions of two multimedia authoring systems for educators. Suggestions focus…

A study of college students revealed weaknesses in learning strategies and metacognitive skills. The students' experience using LOOPS simulation software to create program loops suggests that computer programming coursework may have substantial value for non-majors. (LRW)

Computer-based teaching is ineffective when instructional systems are designed emphasizing technology rather than course information. In view of this, the development of NEAT (Integrated Environment for Authoring in ToolBook) at Acadia University (Nova Scotia) is discussed. Other topics include intelligent tutoring systems, a question repository…

Discusses concurrent, or parallel, programming languages; explains the design of the MultiLogo programming language; and describes a study of fourth and fifth graders that used MultiLogo to control robotic devices built out of Lego bricks. Three categories of MultiLogo programming bugs are described, and implications for changes in design and…

Compares and evaluates problems encountered when designing hypermedia applications for second-language instruction using Guide 3.1 and ToolBook 1.5. The strengths and limitations of both authoring facilities are discussed and domain-specific recommendations for the optimum delivery of pedagogically-sound practice are provided. (six references)…

Presents a multimedia component kit for digital electronics authoring and learning. Components available on the Internet facilitate sharing and reuse of educational software and provide authoring support. Emphasis is put on the implementation of a number of components based on simulation and animation that provide a high level of interactivity and…

PLUS, an authoring system designed to develop cross-platform courseware for different computer types, was evaluated for its portability (ability to run on multiple platforms without adjustment). The procedures and computer equipment used are described, and results are presented. It is concluded that PLUS produces highly portable programs. (MSE)