This study was designed as a systematic investigation of the feasibility and effectiveness of student authored videodisc presentations in a non-major introductory level college biology course. Students (n=66) used a quick-learn authoring system, the Macintosh computer, and videodisc player with color monitor. Results included: (1) students managed the system effectively and produced lessons averaging 14.6 minutes long; (2) performance on a test covering videodisc lessons showed no differences between those in the student authored classes compared with those who observed teacher authored videodisc presentations; (3) students showed positive attitude toward the project despite the fact that it took them 12-15 hours to prepare the videodisc presentations; and (4) success does not appear to be correlated with previous computer experience or mathematical ability. Demonstration videodisc lessons on microscopy, the protist kingdom, and interaction of organisms are included. A bibliography of 70 references is included. (KR)