Evidence exists that many students experience difficulties in comprehending the complexities of instructional system design (ISD), and they simply memorize its principles, with low levels of understanding. This article explores what tasks a student who takes an ISD course does as he or she performs a project of systematic and systemic…

Classifies sites on the World Wide Web according to purpose. Examines what metaphorical design has to offer Web site designers and details how principles of metaphorical design were applied to create a university Web site. Discusses technological limitations that influence design decisions and when metaphorical design might not suit a Web site.…

Discussion of the use of intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs) highlights the role of the teacher. Experiences at Gallaudet University with the Geometry Proof Tutor (GPT) are related, future expectations for ITSs are suggested, and an ideal intelligent instructional system is proposed that considers the social nature of education. (13 references)…

Discusses the concept and design of an enriched learning and information environment that was originally developed at Indiana University in partnership with AT&T (American Telephone and Telegraph). Topics addressed include constructivism, cognitive tools, representing expert behavior, apprenticeship, technological tools, information tools,…

Describes tracking tools used by designers and users to evaluate the efficacy of hypermedia systems. Highlights include human-computer interaction research; tracking tools and user-centered design; and three examples from the Interactive Multimedia Group at Cornell University that illustrate uses of various tracking tools. (27 references) (LRW)

Discussion of Web-based course management systems (W-CMSs) in higher education focuses on formative evaluation and its contribution in the design and development of high-quality W-CMSs. Reviews methods and techniques that can be applied in formative evaluation and examines TeLeTOP, a W-CMS produced at the University of Twente (Netherlands). (LRW)

Describes the process of creating an interactive videodisc for teaching Hebrew as a foreign language at the University of Michigan. Learning processes for foreign languages are discussed, lesson objectives and planning are explained, production considerations in planning the video are described, and examples of computer activities are given. (six…

Describes virtual personal computing, a computer-based educational infrastructure for all students from kindergarten through college, as a step toward meeting national educational goals. New technologies that make this concept possible are described, including the Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL); and the theoretical basis of the virtual…

Discusses problems in the use of performance support systems in higher education. The following issues are addressed (1) development, including software development, collaboration with users, and instructor skills; (2) access, including physical environment limitations; (3) training for students and faculty; (4) student resistance; (5) teaching…