Describes the advantages of simulations over real-life tasks in courses in instructional materials development. Explains how to develop a simulation, including setting objectives, considering learning and gaming principles, and evaluation; and discusses simulation as an experiential approach that is cost effective. (Contains 45 references.) (LRW)

Describes the simultaneous development of paper-based and digitized versions of a textbook and related instructional material used in an undergraduate, independent study, distance education course at Athabasca University (Canada). Used break-even analysis as an initial evaluation measure to determine cost-effectiveness, and discusses the next…

An experiment designed to determine the aptitude level(s) and group size which would provide optimal feedback for formative evaluation of instructional materials found that revisions based on feedback from one-to- one sessions with a mixed aptitude group were more effective than those based on feedback from a group or single aptitude level. (EAO)

Describes a project at Bell Laboratories which sought a compromise between ideal formative evaluation procedures and more feasible procedures necessitated by restrictions on time and resources. Local-trial and field-trial stages of a phased approach are discussed, as well as the benefits of field-tests. (EAO)

The use of word processing and digital image processing to develop new methods for preparing and evaluating materials in the Open University and the implications of these developments are discussed. Recent developments in computer and educational technology are reported as they pertain to cost effectiveness both in production efficiency and…

Presents a preliminary evaluation of two types of electronic books, reference type and textbook type, and discusses the likelihood of their implementation in elementary and secondary schools and in university settings. A theoretical framework for evaluation is described, and recommendations for improving the likelihood of successful implementation…

Comparison of costs and effectiveness of using student data for formative evaluation of instructional materials and of using instructional editing guidelines incorporating attributes of effective instruction indicate greater cost-effectiveness if guidelines are used, with no significant difference in instructional effectiveness. Subjects were 70…

Discusses interactive videodisc technology (IVD) development and potential; education and training capabilities specifically related to developing countries; costs; technical capabilities; likely applications which justify IVD's initial programming expenses; specific IVD applications relative to remedial mathematics and science education, job…

This document is intended to help open learning and distance learning practitioners use, design, and select appropriate open and distance learning materials. The document begins with a brief overview of the following forms of open and distance learning materials: workbooks; structured materials; computer-based training materials; online materials;…