A multidimensional item response theory (IRT) model for polytomously scored items, based on the graded response model and using the normal ogive, is developed; and an EM algorithm that may be used to estimate the parameters of the model is also discussed. The model is illustrated through a simulation study in which the polytomous item responses of…

This paper presents elements of the computer graphics environment including information on: Lotus 1-2-3; Apple Macintosh; Desktop Publishing; Object-Oriented Programming; and Microsoft's Windows 3. A brief scenario illustrates the use of the minimization principle in presenting a new product to a group of international financiers. A taxonomy of…

Research that has been conducted relating to the use of graphics and how various design variables interact with graphics in influencing the process of learning within individuals is explored. Research directions and approaches that may provide enhanced guidelines for integrating graphics into future interactive learning environments are described.…

The purpose of this paper is to consider different kinds of actions learners may take during computer assisted instruction (CAI), and to examine the kind of information they need in order to exercise control over the instruction, i.e., information about their performance level, the organization of the content, the choices available to them and the…

This collection of 116 papers begins with 5 presentations on the general theme of computer literacy and intelligent computer assisted instruction, and covers a wide variety of topics related to training and education at all grade levels. The remaining papers are divided according to special interest group categories: (1) computer-based training;…

The last of a three-part series on computer-assisted instruction (CAI), this report describes microcomputer applications in special education, music, visual arts, speech arts and drama, home economics, and industrial/vocational arts. Under each subject heading, current and developing computer applications are discussed and specific courseware…

Computer assisted instruction, software design, and course organization are among the topics discussed in this varied, 15-paper collection which includes descriptions of specific projects, general essays and practical suggestions for improving or implementing computer-oriented instruction. The following papers are presented: (1) "Organization…

A review of the literature for the past 7 years reveals that the computer serves several key functions in the newsroom. Its more dominant role is in word processing, or internal copy processing regardless of the source of the copy. Computers are also useful in reviewing documents for content analysis, for survey research in public opinion polls…

The Computer Aided Art program offered at Northern State State University (Aberdeen, South Dakota), is coordinated with the traditional art major. The program is designed to familiarize students with a wide range of art-related computer hardware and software and their applications and to prepare students for problem-solving with unfamiliar…

It is argued that in order to make computer assisted instruction effective in the schools, educators should pay more attention to implementation issues (including modifying teacher attitudes, changing classroom routines, and offering realistic technical training and support) and to producing understandable product and performance evaluations.…

Twenty-three conference papers focus on the use of information technology in Ontario's technical colleges and universities: "The Analytic Criticism Module--Authorial Structures & Design" (P. Beam); "Computing by Design" (R. D. Brown & J. D. Milliken); "Engineers and Computers" (P. S. Chisholm, M. Iwaniw, and…

Intended for journalism school instructors and administrators as they make decisions about purchasing computers to help teach graphics and typology, this guide discusses seven areas of weakness in journalism curricula and ways in which schools should prepare themselves for new technologies. The introduction first discusses WYSIWYG--"what you see…

This study presents a review of selection factors for the seven major general-purpose programming languages: Ada, BASIC, C, COBOL, FORTRAN, PASCAL, and PL/I. The factors covered include not only the logical operations within each language, but also the advantages and disadvantages stemming from the current computing environment, e.g., software…

A strategy to identify and address computing needs at a large state university is described that may be used by any university. A task force on instructional computing was formed, and information was gathered concerning: the amount of access and types of computing facilities needed; the issue of standardization of hardware and software; support…

Two computer assisted instruction programs tested the effects of plain and enhanced screen designs with or without information about those designs and task-type on time and learning. Subjects were 140 fourth grade students in Lincoln, Nebraska who had extensive prior experience with computers. The enhanced versions used headings, directive cues,…