The overall organization of the Information System for Vocational Decisions (ISVD) script network is diagrammed and each component described: (1) systems scripts which help determine what part of the system the inquirer wants to use; (2) CAI scripts designed to teach the inquirer things related to career choice; (3) preference scripts which help…

This final report discusses certain parts of the successes and failures, strengths and weaknesses of the development of the Information System for Vocational Decisions (ISVD) in terms of their relevance to the issues within the area of computer-assisted instruction. A major focus is on the kinds of computer-assisted instruction that promote…

This paper discusses issues related to the design of software tools that support learners in their participation in network-based learning activities. To guide the development and use of a new class of educationally-oriented network tools, this paper proposes a cognitively-based, distributed network learning framework (DNLF). This framework has…

Research and development work on the use of the SCHOLAR autotutorial, online system is described. Inference strategies used within the system are deductive, negative, and functional in character. A graphics package allows user to ask questions and give commands in English to control SCHOLAR's map display capability. The examples shown are for…

Outlines the development of Plato, a unified computer system linking terminals to a central educational network; critically reviews Plato's new Homelink system which provides access to 273 games and lessons; and discusses its present capabilities and possible future improvements to make Homelink attractive to home users interested in educational…

This report reviews and interprets activities carried out at the Center for Studies in Education and Development, Harvard Graduate School of Education, in support of the Information System for Vocational Decisions (ISVD) over a three year period. Included here are the contents, development, use so far, and potential of three specific datafiles…

Virtual worlds technology (VWT) uses special computer hardware and software to link humans with computers in natural ways. A data model, or virtual world, is created and presented as a three-dimensional world of sights and sounds. The participant manipulates apparent objects in the world, and in so doing, alters the data model. VWT will become…

All aspects of a five-week field test of the Information System for Vocational Decisions (ISVD) are reported. Sixteen students were involved; each averaged 3.5 sessions with the system. Results indicate that the most frequently accessed script was the Occupational Preference Script. Nearly half of the students (seven) accessed three data files,…

Technological advances in computers and telecommunications that have significantly changed higher education are analyzed within a framework that associates technologies, applications, and aspects of institutions that are affected. Two further frameworks, one for information systems suggested by decision support systems study and one which is a map…