Cost estimates for Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) depend crucially upon the particular assumptions made about the components of the system to be included in the costs, the expected lifetime of the system and courseware, and the anticipated student utilization of the system/courseware. The cost estimates of three currently operational systems…

Initiated in 1959, Project PLATO has attempted to identify and promote technical innovations that improve computer based education and make it economically viable. Three successive systems (PLATO I, II, and III) displayed the potential of the computer to deliver high quality instruction, including programs emphasizing student autonomy and…

This paper describes an effective microprocessor-based CAI system which has been repeatedly tested by a large number of students and edited accordingly. Tasks not suitable for microprocessor based systems (authoring, testing, and debugging) were handled on larger multi-terminal systems. This approach requires that the CAI language used on the…

This research report addresses two questions: Does CAI provide a suitable and acceptable medium for delivering Training Extension Course (TEC) materials to field units? Can Army lesson developers feasibly be trained to convert self-paced, audio-visual materials into CAI format and easily update such materials? The approach used was to convert six…

Using a computer for interactive training opens up a whole new range of capabilities which would otherwise be prohibitively expensive. This article reviews procedures for developing programs and introduces ideas for exploration. (JOW)

Results of the experience gained in designing and using an autonomous computer-assisted testing system are reported, including conclusions based on more than two years testing with typical classes. In this system, definitely expandable auxiliary storage for testing items and programs or scores is provided. Cathode ray tube display of questions and…

The "intelligent videodisc"--a combination of advanced microprocessor, display, and storage technology--holds the potential for developing into a powerful instructional delivery system. In an inexpensive package, it could combine advanced computer-aided instruction (CAI) software power and display capability for audio, video, and textual…

Although both the products and processes of technology have provided many means for better and faster learning at a lower cost, technology has not been implemented enough in elementary and secondary schools to make a difference in overall productivity. This is due to a basic contradiction between the organizational structure of today's schools and…

The Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI) Laboratory at the University of Texas (UT) has two functions: doing research on improving CAI and also developing and implementing CAI at a university. The Lab uses an IBM 1500 instructional system. This system is flexible enough to be useful in research, but it is too small to support an extensive…

The software and courseware developed on the campuses of a big system such as The California State University and Colleges (CSUC) might be the nucleus of a computer network to deliver cost-effective lessons to the students on all campuses. This paper describes the methodology by which small Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) systems could be…

Progress made on the development of a plan for evaluating the cost performance and educational benefits of the TICCIT and PLATO projects is summarized in this annual report. The basic focus of the first section of the report, Cost Analysis, is to provide answers to the fundamental question of how much these two CAI methods cost compared with some…

Considers the choice of a computer-assisted instructional system from several points of view--student attitudes, cost effectiveness, and system performance level. In a comparison of five systems conducted at the University of Leyden in The Netherlands, the PLATO system was preferred. (JJD)

This report describes various aspects of lesson production and use of the PLATO system at Chanute Air Force Base. The first chapter considers four major factors influencing lesson production: (1) implementation of the "lean approach," (2) the Instructional Systems Development (ISD) role in lesson production, (3) the transfer of…

A reimplementation of Computer assisted/managed instruction language (CAMIL) for qualitative and quantitative improvements in the software is presented. The reformatted language is described narratively, and major components of the system software are indicated and discussed. Authoring aids and imbedded support facilities are also described, and…

Describes an approach for designing low cost learning laboratories by using new tools and combining existing tools in innovative ways. Discusses human problem-solving behavior and problem-solving instruction in complex situations, the role of software tools, and the creation of instructional systems development in systems thinking. (PEN)