Considers the possibility of designing CAI (computer-assisted instruction) systems that are managed by semantic networks. Topics discussed include general descriptions of the suggested approach, lesson-presentation modes, and the architecture of a CAI system managed by a semantic network. (10 references) (MES)

Defines and delineates hypermedia by examining its relation to the user as a system, an interface, and an environment. Classes of computer systems are described; classes of hypermedia systems are explained; user work components are discussed, including tasks, information, and the environment; and emerging standards and future developments are…

Discusses the relevance of computer games to the design of computer-based training materials. Highlights include intrinsic motivation and computer-based games; the cultural distinction between work and recreation; the transient motivational effect of games; the differences in use of computer systems; hypermedia authoring systems; and virtual…

Describes issues and advances in the design of appropriate inference engines and knowledge structures needed by commercially feasible intelligent intermediary systems for information retrieval. Issues associated with the design of interfaces to such functions are discussed in detail. Design principles for guiding implementation of these interfaces…

Reviews the literature of networked information retrieval tools to explore the concept of an interactive text-based virtual reality environment that would encompass resources currently available on the Internet. Highlights include academic libraries, electronic mail, hypertext navigation systems, wide area information servers, knowbots and…

Discussion of mathematical modeling, particularly for high school physics curricula, focuses on software that is connected with laboratory work and the inference of mathematical models based on measurements of physical quantities. Fitting procedures are described, and user interface is explained. (Contains nine references.) (LRW)

The most time consuming and expensive step in developing expert systems is knowledge acquisition (KA), and it is important to determine how the limited resources for acquiring knowledge should be allocated across different sources. This paper develops a model that determines how KA resources should be spent and how such a model may be used. (23…

The HyperCard-based computer-assisted instructional environment described--called the Virtual Computer (VC)--uses simulation to help learners acquire basic concepts about the functioning of computers. Discussion of the instructional design of the program includes Elaboration Theory, four learning phases, use of metaphors and analogies, other…

Discusses information retrieval as an inherently interactive process utilizing a variety of information-seeking strategies on informational and meta-informational levels. An interface design for a bibliographic information retrieval system, called BRAQUE (BRowsing And QUEry), that supports user interactions in a two-level hypertext environment is…

Seven articles discuss aspects of transaction log analysis, including introduction and definitions; history and development; components of an ideal logging facility; research methodologies; applications to a variety of library functions; practical and logical limits of the methodology; and future developments needed to enhance successful use of…

Discussion of user-friendly computer systems focuses on the use of learners' mental models to help in the design of interactive learning systems. Topics addressed include interactivity; human factors research; human-computer interface issues; individual differences, including learning styles and prior experience; cognitive load; measuring mental…

Describes the Bangkok Project, a successful application of electronic mail and computer conferencing networks to support professional development in the field of distance education. The development of the computer conference to supplement a face-to-face conference in Bangkok is explained, and conference format and nature of interactions are…

Discusses the use of computers in education, including their limitations and their strengths. Highlights include the Internet; teacher-student relationships; human interaction; the use of computers in research; their effect on labor productivity; and computers as accessories to the instructional process. (LRW)

Reviews literature in the field of human-computer interaction (HCI) as it applies to educational environments. Topics include the origin of HCI; human factors; usability; computer interface design; goals, operations, methods, and selection (GOMS) models; command language versus direct manipulation; hypertext; visual perception; interface…

Reports results of a study investigating effects of four user characteristics on users' mental models of information retrieval (IR) systems. Findings indicated that educational and professional status, academic background, and computer experience had significant effects in differentiating users on their factor scores. First language had a…