Describes a software evaluation program being initiated by the National Resource for Computers in Life Science Education (NRCLSE) that will provide software authors with feedback as well as provide users with information. Peer critiques which will address content and instructional design are explained, and evaluation guidelines are outlined. (five…

Discussion of courseware for use with microcomputers focuses on criteria for selecting the appropriate authoring tool. Criteria are specified from the perspective of: (1) the content specialist or instructor; (2) the instructional designer or analyst; (3) the programer; and (4) the administrator of the instructional software. (42 references) (LRW)

Discussion of computer-mediated communication (CMC) focuses on attempts to utilize CMC in graduate level courses. Highlights include uses of CMC as conference systems, information systems, online journals, and social communication systems; electronic mail as a distance education medium; the contribution of hypertext to CMC; and sample messages…

Discusses the use of intelligent tutoring systems for computer-assisted language learning (CALL), emphasizing second language learning. Schank's conceptual dependency theory is described, a prototype of a program for second language instruction for 7- to 15-year-olds is explained, and future developments are discussed. (54 references) (LRW)

Discussion of the effects of instruction on the attitudes of nurses focuses on a meta analysis of studies that examined effects of visual media in attitude formation or attitude change in nursing education. Criteria used to guide the selection of studies included are explained, and implications for instructional design are discussed. (76…

Nine teachers in programs serving school-aged children or adults with severe disabilities received training on applying rules in data-based instructional decisions. After one-two years of implementation, the teachers' decision making and the effect of these decisions on student progress were evaluated. Some support was found for the benefit of…

Describes an instructional model, Strategies Program for Effective Learning/Thinking (SPELT), that was developed to translate cognitive psychological theory and research into a practical instructional program. The extent to which SPELT conforms to current instructional design principles is examined, and macro versus micro instructional sequencing…

Defines the functions of windows that are used as visual display techniques in computer software systems, reviews research on the effectiveness of window environments, discusses knowledge structures, and presents principles for designing windowed environments based on research findings and individual differences and screen design research. (10…

Describes job aids and the characteristics that have potential effects on their usability and utility. Highlights include accessibility; worker motivation; convenience of use; ease of perception; focus to task; recommendations for designing job aids; and the need for a pilot test of a draft with the user population. (11 references) (LRW)

Discusses the effectiveness of the use of simulations and games as alternative approaches to learning. Criteria for evaluating games and simulations for use in the classroom are given, and steps involved in the design of simulations and nonsimulation games are described. (LRW)

Describes instructional design as a high-level thinking process to provide more information on the way instructional design is learned and actually practiced. Topics discussed include cognitive psychology, design models, planning, schema theory, development of expertise, metacognition, problem solving, and implications for training and future…

Instructional engineering principles were applied to development of instruction in dental mirror skills, and the instruction was validated with 92 students and 25 controls. Measurement of skills over a period of a year and mirror usage during the practical exam indicated instructional effectiveness. Mirror skill instructional tasks are described.…

Describes the design principles of computer-assisted learning (CAL) environments in which the software is interactive yet adaptable to different styles of learning and teaching, illustrated with a mathematics application. Following implementation, initial evaluation data taken from students showed marked performance improvements, and indicated how…

Outlines several models for successful collaboration in planning, teaching, and evaluating by library media specialists and classroom teachers. Suggests strategies for promoting collaboration, stressing proactive contact with colleagues, administrators, and students to create awareness of and support for the library program. (JKP)

This review of the literature on computer-assisted instruction for students with mild disabilities identifies features of effective software, offers examples of software features that support particular instructional strategies, and outlines findings on specific instructional principles as applied to computer-assisted instructional software. (DB)