Concept-Flow Diagrams: Method for Design of Computer-Aided Instruction

Abstract

Current software design techniques are organized around either data transformation or stimulus-response control flow abstractions. Neither of these approaches apply to the flow of presentation and answer analysis that characterizes computer-aided instruction. This thesis introduces a new design abstraction, concept-flow, and technique that exploits it in the design of tutorial software. The design technique uses concept-flow diagrams, which highlight presentation of information and verification of user comprehension. The technique is explained through application to a tutorial on the physics of underwater sound. The design and implementation of a prototype concept-flow interpreter are presented. This design technique and the associated interpreter allow for rapid construction of highly flexible computer-based tutorial strategies, useful for both traditional CAI applications and for more efficient help-sequence design in interactive systems.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 1992
Accession Number
ADA246896

Entities

People

  • Dawn M. Maskell

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Programs
  • Computer Science
  • Computer-Aided Instruction
  • Computers
  • Department Of Defense
  • Educational Technology
  • Instructions
  • Instructors
  • Lists (Data Structures)
  • Operating Systems
  • Software Design
  • Software Development
  • Students
  • Task Performance And Analysis
  • Underwater Sound
  • Word Processors

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Database Systems and Applications
  • Software Engineering.