Describes Project THEORIA, which was developed at Carnegie Mellon University to design interactive simulation environments for testing hypotheses and theories of the arts and human morals. Three projects in various stages of design and development are described: (1) "A Right to Die?; (2) "Art or Forgery?"; and (3) "Birth or…

Reviews the development process of the TouchSource authoring system, which has been designed for use in developing touchscreen information directories using interactive videodisc. Topics discussed include authoring languages; the compatibility of interactive videodisc systems; hardware considerations; menu creation and design; database functions;…

Discusses the issues influencing the design, implementation, and promotion of the Towers Perrin in-house text retrieval system. The discussion of factors influencing system design includes the organizational culture, the existing computer and communications network, and the availability of text retrieval software. Suggestions for in-house systems…

These two articles discuss the contributions of behavioral and cognitive psychology to the design of computer-based instruction (CBI) and describe an integrated meta-model for use with instructional systems design (ISD) called ROPES + (Retrieving, Orienting, Presenting, Encoding, and Sequencing). Highlights include motivation, information…

Describes study that was conducted to investigate the relationship between locus of control and user attitude toward computer based information systems (CBIS) used at work. The impact of user involvement is examined, the hypotheses tested are described, and implications for introducing CBIS into organizations are discussed. (14 references) (LRW)

The Structured Sound Function (SSF) Model is proposed as a method for adding audio to educational computer programs. Topics include the background of the SSF Model; educational hypermedia computing; the two approaches (structure-before-function and function-before-structure) of applying the SSF Model; and recent applications. (57 references)…

Discusses a user interface that simplifies NF Squared (non-first-normal-form) relational query formulation in which query specification remains compact and straightforward. This interface allows for nesting and general hierarchical structures and restructuring which provides for more effective retrieval and query formulation. (Author/JKP)

Discusses computer software and system design in the information industry and provides an annotated bibliography of 31 resources that address the issue of design. Highlights include competition, color use, hardware and presentation design, content and packaging, screen design, graphics, and interactive multimedia. A sidebar reviews and rates seven…

Examines potential solutions to the problem of personal computer cabling and configuration and serial port performance, namely "FireWire" (P1394) and "Universal Serial Bus" (USB). Discusses interface design, technical capabilities, user friendliness, compatibility, costs, and future perspectives. (AEF)

Proposes a unifying framework based on speech act theory, which reconciliates the representation and communication roles of information systems. Focuses on how communication can be modeled by means of discourses, which are viewed as sequences of events; discusses implications for future research. (Author/AEF)

Describes a study that was conducted to determine how error patterns and a clinical approach to assessing third grade students' mathematical knowledge interrelate to design a computer diagnostic system for subtraction. Error patterns are examined, and computer diagnostic systems and analytical testing are discussed. (34 references) (LRW)

Reports on a pilot study in which a proposed design model was developed to characterize intergroup communication among designers, developers, and users. Design roles, themes, and networks based on two histories of design situations are described for several design phases; and future work is suggested. (24 references) (LRW)

Discusses the theoretical frameworks and design considerations for an experimental electronic library system named Cybermagazine and considers the potential of multimedia approaches to information retrieval and delivery. Issues considered include current awareness services, user interface, database management, cataloging, and document delivery.…

This seventh and final discussion in a series of edited transcripts based on a conference held at Utah State University focuses on intelligent computer-assisted instruction (ICAI); the use of computers in education, especially in elementary schools; and the development of an expert system for instructional design theory. (seven references) (LRW)

Proposes a personal information management technology called Memex-TV that might develop from advances in entertainment technology. Topics addressed include capabilities of the new system, system design, the scenario for development of Memex-TV as an entertainment technology spin-off, current entertainment technology trends, a typical evening with…