Reviews possible sources of reinforcement in computer assisted instruction and systematic utilization of these sources in courseware design. Sources reviewed include reinforcement from the machine itself; from the content of the instructional modules and its arrangement in a learning sequence; and from sources external to the modules. (MBR)

Discusses the importance of screen design in computer-based instruction (CBI), and presents a framework for screen design decisions based on the ROPES (Retrieving, Orienting, Presenting, Encoding, and Sequencing) meta-model for instructional design. Psychological, instructional, and technological foundations of screen design are discussed, and…

In early 2004, Cabrilog released version "II plus" of their interactive geometry package. According to the author, "Cabri Geometry II plus" is clearly a much more useful package than the earlier version. However, unlike other sophisticated applications packages, the designers have avoided creating so many options that secondary students lose their…

Discussion of learner control in instructional management describes six learner control methods: (1) content control; (2) sequence control; (3) pace control; (4) display or strategy control; (5) internal processing control; and (6) advisor strategies. Relevant literature, both theoretical and empirical, is reviewed, and learner control and…

Discusses reasons for the lack of computer and software use in the classroom, especially on the elementary level. Highlights include deficiencies in available software, including lack of interaction and type of feedback; philosophies of computer use; the psychology of learning and computer use; and suggestions for developing quality software. (4…

Describes a study that investigated the feasibility of using computers to teach music notation systems to Chinese students, as well as to help Western educators study Chinese music and its number notation system. Topics discussed include students' learning sequences; HyperCard software; hypermedia and graphic hypertext indexing; and the…

Discusses cognitive apprenticeship, an educational practice that focuses on students actively engaged in activities with a variety of supports, or scaffolding. Presents a model of scaffolding that was implemented in courseware for learning computer graphics on the World Wide Web. An evaluation on the use of the courseware at Georgia Institute of…

Presents guidelines for developing computer-assisted instructional materials that are based on theoretical instructional theories, including behaviorism; neobehaviorism (imitation and modeling); information processing; cognitive psychology; and learning styles. Guidelines highlight feedback and reinforcement, practice opportunities, sequencing,…

Describes spatial and sequential learning strategies and how they affect student performance and progress in second-language learning. Briefly describes a test identifying preferred style. Suggests how instructors can then individualize instruction. Outlines the way VOCAL, a multilingual authoring system, can be used in a language laboratory for…

Describes two experiments in Dutch secondary schools that were carried out to study the effect of the sequencing of the information in computer-assisted instructional programs. Instructional design for concept learning is discussed; successive and coordinate relationships between concepts are explained; and tests designed for procedural and…

Discusses research on learner control, pacing, and sequence, and describes a study of undergraduates that was conducted to determine the effects of learner versus program control of pacing and sequence in an interactive video lesson on photography. Results are analyzed, and suggestions for further research are given. (38 references) (LRW)