Investigates undergraduate student preference for overt vs. covert responding in a Web-based tutorial using a within-subject design. Explains covert question format, which requires passive thinking, and overt format, which requires active responding; and discusses results which show a preference for the overt format. (Author/LRW)

Formulates decision rules for adapting the appropriate amount of instruction to learning needs in intelligent-tutoring systems. Highlights include minimax decision theory (a minimum information approach), a binomial model, and a comparison of the Bayesian decision component in the Minnesota Adaptive Instructional System and the minimax strategy.…

Minimalist design principles were used to test whether instructional intervention could decrease computer anxiety of subjects learning basic word-processing skills. Subjects were pre- and posttested on anxiety during each session. Findings indicated that the method as well as increased computer use decreased anxiety. (Author/AEF)

Discussion of computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) focuses on the way in which current instructional design theories can be used to design collaborative learning environments in primary and secondary schools. Highlights include definitions of CSCL; CSCL research, including cognitive approach, systems design, and curricular…

Discusses the importance of screen design in computer-based instruction (CBI), and presents a framework for screen design decisions based on the ROPES (Retrieving, Orienting, Presenting, Encoding, and Sequencing) meta-model for instructional design. Psychological, instructional, and technological foundations of screen design are discussed, and…

Examines criticisms of educational computer use, considers how society and schools have reacted to previous technological trends, and outlines relationships between diverse approaches to computer use and the outcomes that can be expected. Describes two approaches to media use, representational and generative, to identify instructional approaches…

Major issues in instructional theory and the advantages of structural analysis for building instructional systems are discussed. Building on core technology and the structural learning theory, a research program is proposed which will enable efficient development of effective learning systems for industry and schools. Contains 66 references. (AEF)

Discussion of expert systems focuses on knowledge acquisition methodologies and their potential application to cognitive science research and the development of instructional materials. Topics discussed include subject matter experts; types of knowledge; structured interviews; task analysis; intelligent computer assisted instruction (ICAI);…

Examines the current state of research into the visual effects of screen designs used in computer-assisted instruction and suggests areas for future efforts. Topics discussed include technical elements and comprehensibility elements in layout design; single element and multiple element research methodologies; dependent variables; and learning…

Provides a conceptual foundation for the development of hypermedia as an instructional tool for addressing individual differences in learning styles. Highlights include a literature review; computers and instruction; individual differences, computers, and instruction; cognitive controls; cognitive styles and learning; personality types; and future…

Designing the instructional interface is a challenging endeavor requiring knowledge and skills in instructional and visual design, psychology, human-factors, ergonomic research, computer science, and editorial design. This paper describes the instructional interface, the challenges of its development, and an instructional systems approach to its…

Defines the functions of windows that are used as visual display techniques in computer software systems, reviews research on the effectiveness of window environments, discusses knowledge structures, and presents principles for designing windowed environments based on research findings and individual differences and screen design research. (10…

Reviews instructional design techniques that are suggested for improving the quality and effectiveness of educational software. Three areas of instructional design are addressed: (1) instructional strategies, including provision, examples and active feedback; (2) screen display, including text style variety; and (3) human factors, including…

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)

Discussion of educational technology and its impact on instructional methodology and the learning process focuses on six basic educational components necessary to trace technology variables directly to specific learning processes. Highlights include learning objectives; knowledge bases; instructional strategies; computer-based enhancements; and…