Describes a submethodology for using information from the analysis phase during the design phase when developing technical training. The development of instructional materials is discussed; Keller's ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction) motivation model and Gagne's events of instruction are compared; and the development and use…

Makes a distinction between the instructional development which only translates present curriculum into more effective instruction and that which develops both curriculum and instruction. A management structure for developing materials of the "translation" variety is outlined and a writing and programing technique--information mapping--is…

Provides a summary of research on the benefits and uses of subject-matter-related humor in instructional materials, and cites comments of five experts on how to use humor in the design of instruction. Thirteen references are listed. (MER)

Discusses how to use text design to improve printed instructional materials. Topics discussed include text structuring; how readers process information; page layout; spacing; illustrative material; information mapping; verbal and visual cues; the use of headings; and typographical cues. (nine references) (LRW)

Describes six guiding principles to help training developers use content experts more efficiently and effectively to ensure training materials contain accurate, complete, and relevant information. Topics discussed include assessing content experts and the use of productivity tools, including checklists, test validation forms, and point sheets.…

Discussion of instructional design in large organizations highlights a project management approach. Topics addressed include the role of the instructional designer; project team selection; role of the team members; role of the project manager; focusing on what employees need to know; types of project teams; and monitoring time and responsibility.…

Addresses the four questions raised by Yelon about use of pretests with instruction--should I pretest; on what should I pretest; how should I pretest; how should I adjust to results--and answers them from the perspective of instructional designers conducting formative evaluations to improve quality of instruction under development. (MBR)

Describes characteristics of structured text design; benefits of its use in training; benefits for developers of training materials and steps in preparing training materials. A case study illustrating how the structured text design process solved the sales training needs of the Mercedes-Benz Truck Company is presented. (MBR)

This latest in a series of articles on the manager's role in an instructional design project highlights techniques for managing the reproduction and distribution of materials. Guidelines for orienting staff are suggested, a sample reproduction and distribution schedule is given, and a storage and distribution system is discussed. (LRW)

Describes four training guides developed by the Water and Sanitation for Health Project for use in rural water supply and sanitation projects in developing countries, explains the development process, offers insights gained from the process, and presents five considerations for designing training in third world countries. (MBR)

Presents several steps for developing computer based learning materials, and shows that they can be less expensive to design and implement than those that are developed using other media. (MER)

Discusses differences between computer-delivered instruction and print-delivered instruction and the importance of the role of the instructional design process when adapting traditional teaching materials to newer media. The use of authoring systems for preparing materials and computer-managed instruction as a support for programed instruction are…

Discusses the importance of identifying the audience and determining specific objectives when designing printed instructional materials that will communicate effectively and provides detailed guidelines for dealing with such design factors as content, writing style, typography, illustrations, and page organization. (MBR)

Presents highlights from a panel discussion by well known San Francisco Bay area documentation writers, instructional designers, and human performance technologists. Three issues on user performance and documentation are addressed: whether people avoid reading user manuals and why; major human factors influencing documentation use; and…

The method for modifying existing training courses for international students that is described includes conducting audience and needs analysis; matching audience needs to existing course objectives; and material modification. Specific modifications helpful in redesigning course materials are discussed. (MBR)