Describes a microcomputer-based program created for the U.S. Navy that automates curriculum development for technical training. Highlights include training program components; analysis and design of instructional materials; systematic support and management of the curriculum development process; software automation; and time and cost savings. (LRW)

Discussion of research problems in instructional technology emphasizes two main needs: (1) development of a prescriptive research methodology; and (2) more front end analysis that produces a distinction between instructional design research and instructional development research. Two examples of research using the prescriptive technology approach…

Describes a course developed at the University of Victoria (British Columbia) to provide training for educators that will facilitate communication with computer scientists as they work together on educational software development projects. Software engineering and instructional design principles are discussed, the course methodology is explained,…

Discussion of the use of artificial intelligence in computer-based instruction focuses on training development for the U.S. Army. Topics discussed include the Systems Approach to Training (SAT); knowledge acquisition; domain expertise; intelligent computer-assisted instruction; software tools and decision aids; and expert systems. (10 references)…

Looks at the process of designing and assessing coursework for the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) course in Business Studies. Provides a flow chart illustrating stages in coursework design and includes examples. Offers suggestions for grading assignments according to the GCSE Business Studies syllabus. (LS)

Discusses intelligent computer assisted instruction (ICAI) and presents various models of learning which have been proposed. Topics discussed include artificial intelligence; intelligent tutorial systems; tutorial strategies; learner control; system design; learning theory; and knowledge representation of proper and improper (i.e., incorrect)…

Describes a business-writing course based on academic and industrial collaboration and the conceptual model of social communities. (MM)

Discussion of differences in skills and abilities needed for instructional designers in academic versus business settings focuses on a survey of Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) and National Society for Performance and Instruction (NSPI) members. Employment criteria and data upon which these criteria are judged are…

Reviews instructional design techniques that are suggested for improving the quality and effectiveness of educational software. Three areas of instructional design are addressed: (1) instructional strategies, including provision, examples and active feedback; (2) screen display, including text style variety; and (3) human factors, including…

Discusses the use of cooperative learning principles in bibliographic instruction at the University of Minnesota. Topics include changing the role of the instructor to relinquish some control and have an open attitude, and increasing student participation and control of the discussion for a more interactive environment. (LRW)

Discusses three factors that have particular relevance for the designers of instruction for adult distance learners: (1) support for learner control; (2) access to different levels of interaction; and (3) availability and ease of use of different technology platforms. Topics include motivation for change and the design of courseware. (Author/LRW)

Describes the development and pilot testing of a human biology laboratory telecourse delivered over the Education Network of Maine. The process is described within the framework of an instructional systems design model. Decisions and critical issues considered at each development stage, and generally applicable issues are presented. (Contains 14…

Discusses the need for school restructuring. Topics include diversity of the student population; funding; the adoption process for new ideas and educational innovations; the need for systemic change; approaches to change; and the role of instructional technologists, including the instructional design process. (LRW)

Discusses three experiments conducted with undergraduates to investigate important characteristics of mental models, their influence on task performance, and instructional strategies facilitating their formation. Results suggest that dynamic visual displays are more effective than static visual displays for teaching electronic troubleshooting…

Discussion of computer-related anxiety and stress focuses on how management, system designers, and technical communicators can help users relieve stress when using computers. Highlights include a review of relevant research; issues for management; systems design, including needs assessment and standards; and instructional design, including…