Examines expert system shells and the role a microcomputer-based expert system can play as an intelligent job aid. Characteristics of traditional and automated job aids techniques are described, and the role of instructional designers in developing expert systems within organizations is discussed. (Author/LRW)

Description of an instructional systems development model focuses on the Shipyard Training Development Management Plan, a process for the design of instruction for Naval shipyard trade workers. The phases of the process include analyzing training requirements, designing and developing training modules, producing materials, implementing training,…

Describes a survey conducted within the commercial nuclear power industry to determine the tasks that a typical training instructor performs. Instructor training programs are examined, results of the survey are analyzed, and further uses of the survey data are suggested. (LRW)

Provides a rough classification of three basic design aspects of audiocassette production in a distance education framework: dramaturgical design; didactic functions or teaching objectives; and reciprocal relations to other media and students' activities. It is concluded that audiocassettes can be very effective and powerful when developed to…

Presents a series of six prescriptions for constructing an authoring system that guides the instructional design process used to create computer-based lessons. The importance of providing opportunities for dynamic interaction between the program and the student is emphasized. (Author/LRW)

Describes performance criteria for users of computer assisted instruction (CAI) that are used to provide users with feedback about their performance relative to other users. This study evaluated 146 novice users on their percentages of correct responses, time required for completion, and number of times the CAI tutorial was performed. (LRW)

Research has found that effective teachers teach concepts and skills using a systematic, step-by-step instructional process. The six teaching functions are: review, presentation, guided practice, corrections and feedback, independent practice, and weekly and monthly reviews. Includes two tables and extensive references. (MD)

Describes Checkerboard, a game-like exercise designed to teach financial awareness, control, and appraisal to managers and reinforce the principle that all people in managerial positions make decisions, all of which incur costs and generate benefits. Students are guided by discovery and discussion toward improved financial decision making. (MBR)

Explores issues surrounding efforts to introduce online catalogs to users and presents relevant research results from Northwestern University's "Educating the Online Catalog User" project. Highlights include attitudes and preconceptions about online catalogs and instruction, research on online catalog use, suggestions for online catalog teaching,…

Presents a classification system of four microcomputer simulation types developed to evaluate their instructional processes: structured questions and graphics, variable-assignment exercises, diagnostic simulations, and group-interactive simulations. How this taxonomy contributes to three tasks associated with classroom use of software is…

Describes tutoring models and compares instructional strategies classified as organizational, delivery, and management strategies, in those models that have been found effective: Literacy Volunteers, Laubach Literacy, Structured Tutoring, Programmed Tutoring, Peer-Mediated Instruction, and the Audio-Tutorial System. Tutoring cost-effectiveness and…

Describes an Educational Products Information Exchange (EPIE) study which evaluated 163 elementary and secondary education microcomputer courseware programs for intent, content, methods and approach, and evaluation, to discover whether trends existed across areas and courseware types, and to determine strengths and weaknesses of available…

Reviews options for training individuals to use microcomputers (courses and workshops, books/media packages, software producer documentation, and computer disk-based training) and discusses the evaluation of training packages, including instructional design and technical considerations. A selective list of companies that provide training is…

Discusses two factors to consider in relation to the use of color and the design of computerized instructional materials: the purpose of using color in instruction and how the microcomputer, with its limitations, affects color use. Principles for the use of color are suggested. (Author/MBR)

Describes two experiments on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) interaction in which interactional analysis is utilized to provide information on the interaction of students with microcomputers. It is suggested that interactional analysis is the key to improving the design and application of CAI materials. (MBR)