PLATO Courseware Development Procedures
Abstract
This is an exploratory study of methods for the preparation of computer curricular materials. It deals with courseware development procedures for the PLATO IV computer-based education system and draws on interviews with over 100 persons engaged in courseware production. The report presents a five stage model of development: planning; production; review; validation and documentation; and implementation. This model then serves as a basis for the discussion of various group structures which range from the independent developer to team members with special skills. Features of the PLATO system did affect the group productivity as well as quality of lesson material: these influences, both beneficial and detrimental, appear to be important factors to consider in the organization and management of courseware development groups. A major objective of this study, beyond the description of methods for development, was to set forth those characteristics that might distinguish among groups and help in personnel selection. Therefore the report includes a discussion of group and individual characteristics, and suggests further lines of research on selecting and training developers. A summary of this study and extensive recommendations for further work conclude the paper.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA040960
Entities
People
- A. L. Misselt
- Donald L. Alderman
- Richard M. Schell
- William A. Mahler
Organizations
- Educational Testing Service