Accession Number:

AD0729895

Title:

Information Mapping for Computer-Based Learning and Reference.

Descriptive Note:

Rept. for Nov 69-Feb 71,

Corporate Author:

INFORMATION RESOURCES INC CAMBRIDGE MASS

Personal Author(s):

• Horn,Robert E.
• Nicol,Elizabeth H.
• Roman,Richard A.
• Razar,Margaret P.

Report Date:

1971-03-01

Pagination or Media Count:

167.0

Abstract:

A new conception of computer-based instructional systems is presented in this design of a system that can deliver individualized information sequences not only to learners and trainees, but to reference workers, reviewers, browsers and the like. Underlying the system is a flexible data base, organized into labelled, movable information blocks according to the principles of Information Mapping--a system for categorizing and displaying information. The report is itself written in modified Information-Mapping style. A significant feature of this computerized information service is that the control over information selection and arrangement can be assigned entirely to the user, entirely to the system, or to both in one of many possible patterns of shared responsibility. When the system takes part in information-sequencing decisions, its many mechanisms for individualizing come into play. The executive program consults short-term and long-term data about the individual, his objectives, capabilities, interests and present status before it selects and arranges blocks from the data base to display for him. Evaluation and feedback provisions are also individualized. The systems capability for controlling conditions and recording user-system interactions will make it a valuable force in research on individualization in training and education. The development of this complex design was facilitated by a Documentation-Updating System that produced system documents in Information-Mapped form and kept them up to date throughout the project. Author

Descriptors:

• *PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION
• SELECTION
• SCHEDULING
• TRAINING DEVICES
• DISPLAY SYSTEMS
• CONTROL
• ADAPTIVE SYSTEMS
• COMPUTERS

Subject Categories:

• Humanities and History

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE