Describes the construction of a model of computer-assisted instruction using a qualitative block diagram based on general systems theory (GST) as a framework. Subject matter representation is discussed, and appendices include system variables and system equations of the GST model, as well as an example of developing flexible courseware. (Contains…

Presents a detailed analysis of courseware design activities based upon the use of conceptual data models for content elaboration. Highlights include discussions of computerized training systems, authoring languages and authoring systems, and the distinction between processing and data. (Author/LRW)

Discusses difficulties of producing computer assisted learning (CAL) software economically. Proposed as a solution, modular programing is illustrated by describing production of a matrix algebra package. Use of special CAL modules and facilities provided by subroutine libraries are cited, and development of a package to teach matrix theory is…

Defines the role of the instructor-user in computer-assisted learning (CAL) and discusses the need to be able to alter and adapt existing CAL software for particular teaching needs. SPELEO, an authoring system developed in France that allows the modification of courseware content, is described. (eight references) (LRW)

Defines prototyping as an original version or model on which a completed software system for computer-based training is formed; examines the development process of a prototype; describes how prototyping can assist in facilitating communication between educational technology, software engineering, and project management; and discusses why…

Explains how a model of an instructional process can be translated into an instructional processor that can be used to develop courseware for computer assisted instruction. The General Systems Theory is discussed as a conceptual framework, and models based on three levels of the decision-making process are described. (12 references) (LRW)

Describes an intelligent computer-assisted learning system that is able to generate individualized courses of instruction for students with different background knowledge and different purposes. Highlights include system architecture; domain knowledge base and student model; authoring by the teacher; courseware planning; and pedagogical tuning by…

Reviews criticisms of the use of drill and practice programs in educational computing and describes potentials for its use in instruction. Topics discussed include guidelines for developing computer-based drill and practice; scripted training courseware; item format design; item bank design; and a performance-responsive algorithm for item…

Examines the impact and achievement of the Computers in Teaching Initiative (CTI), a national program developed to foster the effective use of computers in teaching in universities in the United Kingdom. Difficulties in identifying quality software resources are discussed, and management issues that computer use generates in universities are…

Presents reasons for choosing a connected computer system for student use in secondary schools. The systems approach is discussed; two alternatives are compared, a central computer and a local area network (LAN) of microcomputers; software is described; and two scenarios of LAN use are presented. (four references) (LRW)

This paper describes an empirical study of fun, usability, and learning in educational software. Twenty five children aged 7 and 8 from an English primary school participated. The study involved three software products that were designed to prepare children for government initiated science tests. Pre and post tests were used to measure the…

Identifies human factor issues involved in the student-computer interface in computer assisted instruction and makes specific recommendations for screen design. Factors considered include simplicity, spaciousness, relevance, standardization, changing display screen contents, color coding, shape and size coding, and brightness coding. (Author/LRW)

Discusses guidelines for the development of microcomputer-based courseware from the perspective of the teachers. Reserarch from Northern Ireland Schools is presented that highlights software design, courseware development, and teacher education; and seven factors that contribute to teachers' perceptions of good software are described. (21…

Describes Datamondo, an instructional package that introduces the use of a newspaper database in humanities teaching at the secondary level in Italy. The effectiveness of the package in developing basic linguistic skills and as a research tool is evaluated. (8 references) (Author/CLB)

Description of Atenea, the Spanish National Project for Computers in Education, focuses on the use of computer simulation and modeling in elementary and secondary education. Highlights include system dynamics, training courses for teachers, a microcomputer-based software package called System Dynamics Simulator for Education (SDSE), and a list of…