Discusses the ideological dimensions of writing instruction software. Discusses errors and assumptions of choosing software for writing instruction. Suggests that all software decisions must be tested against the instructor's own self-conscious and informed understanding of the goals of writing instruction. (RS)

Identifies some of the common features of authoring programs. Outlines factors to consider when buying an authoring software package, including access to equipment, development and maintenance of courseware, purchasing and updating hardware and software, platform selection, and authoring skills. Presents a list of questions to ask vendors before…

Review of upgrades to IBM and Macintosh software includes personal experiences with DOS 5.0, PC Tools Version 7, and Microsoft Word 5.5. Reasons for and problems with upgrades are then discussed, including alternatives to upgrading and problems with skipping upgrades. Guidelines for deciding whether to upgrade and notes from the literature for…

Successful introduction of major new software applications requires worker commitment, inservice training, and communication. Cost justification considers the cost of computer purchase, installation, inservice training, salary, time lost due to "bugs," plus the cost of modifications. (MLF)

Outcomes of a project designed to develop the knowledge base necessary for creating an expert system that would help nonprofit organizations select fund-raising software are presented in this paper. When the system is completed, its components will ask the user for information that will assist in determining the organization's administrative needs…

Presents an engineering environment oriented to the development of hypermedia applications for training. Training trends are described; requirements for a computer-based training (CBT) strategy are outlined; a hypermedia course structure is examined; microinstructional events (MIEs) are explained; and technology requirements and selection are…

Examines factors affecting selection and development of computer simulations, including type of learner, simulation formats, instructional purposes, learning outcomes, fidelity, learning stages, and logistical issues. A flowchart model and set of prescriptions to help designers arrive at specifications for an instructional simulation are…

Written from the viewpoint of an observer of the computer industry and a CD-ROM user, this report looks at CD-ROM evaluation guidelines; notes the performance of publishers; and comments on successful product design. It is contended that some software publishers are jumping on the CD-ROM bandwagon, and are guilty of: (1) putting "any old stuff"…

Discusses cataloging and indexing for the retrieval of digital items as part of the British Library's Initiatives for Access program. Highlights include standards, digital catalogs, Novel access software that includes fuzzy matching, software choice and development, and future possibilities. (LRW)

Provides a framework for selecting a hypermedia authoring system for use in developing interactive computer-based training (CBT). Criteria for analyzing three major functions are explained: learner control, including user friendliness, and online help; information presentation, including the ability to add audio and visual elements; and source…

Provides an overview of developments in authoring tools and describes ways to categorize products by platform, type of end-product, sophistication of end-product, and authoring metaphor. Discusses products from AimTech, Allegiant, Allen Communication, Asymetrix, Corel, Discovery Systems International, Enigma, Harrow Media, Horizons, Innovus,…

Discusses a multimedia-based program designed to provide students with a self-paced study of woody plants using color images of twigs, leaves, bark, fruit, and flowers. The program uses Authorware, software that can be used on both Macintosh- and Windows-compatible platforms. This program is intended for use as a supplement to field-study…

Describes results of a survey of teachers belonging to the Texas Computer Education Association that was conducted to determine whether authoring tools were being used to develop software for computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Teachers' prior computer education and experience are examined, and the selection of authoring tools is addressed. (six…

This executive summary of an in-depth analysis and evaluation of California's educational technology programs provides information on programs funded from 1984 to 1992 and provides guidelines for the evaluation of future state-funded educational technology programs and projects. Summaries of the findings for educational technology programs from…

Describes over 25 firms that have listed software applications that can be used by schools. Each listing includes the name of the software and a general description of its utility. Tables provide detailed listings of the software's functions, the type of support the company provides, and the hardware on which the software can be run. (MLF)