This paper describes the design principles for the development of an interactive media project in physics entitled "Beyond Einstein," which is based on the public television series, "The Creation of the Universe." Following a discussion of cognitive science concepts applicable to the development of interactive television, the development of a demonstration tape is detailed, noting that the information to be placed in the database includes short pieces of video, audio, and computer data as well as text. The possibility of using CD-I (Compact Disc-Interactive) as the medium for the project is considered. It is suggested that "Beyond Einstein" represents a first step in the development of information made transparent and attractive to the user, and that it is now necessary to explore in depth the question of whether the possibilities demonstrated in this project are worth further investment. (EW)