A tutorial introduction to data models in general is provided, with particular emphasis on the relational and network models defined by the two proposed ANSI (American National Standards Institute) database language standards. Examples based on the network and relational models include specific syntax and semantics, while examples from the other…

Examines the information communication process and proposes a fuzzy commonality model for improving communication systems. Topics discussed include components of an electronic information programing and processing system and the flow of the formation and transfer of information, including DOS (disk operating system) commands, computer programing…

Describes techniques in LOGO, which are applicable to A-level and above. The techniques use a dynamic modeling approach, which considers system behavior in terms of state transitions over successive short intervals. Advantages and disadvantages of using LOGO are noted. (JN)

Describes the evolution of courseware development and compares existing development methods, including traditional programing languages, authoring languages, and authoring systems. The use of a product which includes a customized courseware generator or authoring system is proposed, and an example is described that used HyperCard to teach the…

The effects of 2 different kinds of descriptive models (metaphor and flow chart) on the learning of a computer command language were studied for 37 computer experienced and 47 nonexperienced undergraduates (57 females and 27 males). Results show that metaphor improves performance of most subjects on most transfer items, with inexperienced subjects…

Describes use of the software ADABAS (general purpose database management system) and NATURAL (interactive programing language) in development and implementation of an information retrieval system for the National Television and Radio Network of Israel. General design considerations, files contained in each archive, search strategies, and keywords…

Individual papers discussing various facets of human relationships with interactive computer systems present an analysis of direct manipulation interfaces; discuss notion of conceptual models shared by system and user and propose a design methodology for delivering models to users; and address the intelligibility of systems and importance of…

Discusses pedagogical factors influencing design and construction of sophisticated educational multimedia workstations, and presents an overview of the Multi-Media Authoring Language system, an experimental test vehicle providing a framework in which to conduct hardware, software, and interfacing experiments necessary to produce a solution to…

This paper argues that electronic text applications in higher education can be conceptualized in terms of three communicational intentions of computer-based systems: informational, instructional, and instrumental (tool-oriented). Product-oriented and service-oriented applications of electronic text are contrasted, and instructional applications…

This paper focuses on the applications which best suit the microcomputer in an educational setting with emphasis on adapting effective pedagogical practice to the computer's programability and delivery capabilities. Discovery learning and "being told" are identified as two types of computer assisted instruction (CAI) and sample uses of…

A definition of computer literacy is developed that is broad enough to apply to educators in general, but which leaves room for specificity for particular situations and content areas. The following general domains that comprise computer literacy for all educators are addressed: (1) general computer operations; (2) software, including computer…