Computer-assisted Instruction: A Solid-State Socrates?

Abstract

Computers are now being used for direct student instruction to apply knowledge and principles through drills, tutorial assistance, and simulations and games. Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) offers the advantages of individualized, self-paced, self-scheduled instruction, self-determined areas of need, instant feed-back, tutorial assistance, spontaneous reason testing, and motivation to win in game programs. The essentials for developing CAI are an author who is expert in the learning content, and a computer programmer. Variables in CAI construction include the program language, computer, terminal, program type and length, and budget. Costs have become reasonable, with $2,000 terminals, low-cost telephone-line rental for access to remote computers, and minicomputers for $10,000 or less. The Department of Respiratory Therapy at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia, is developing CAI materials under federal grant. Projected program areas are medical terminology, oxygenation, blood gas interpretation, pharmacology, oxygen therapy, pulmonary function, basic care, EKG and x-ray interpretation, and ventilator patient simulations. These programs are being written in BASIC, are intended to reinforce and apply knowledge, and are at all levels of drill, tutorial instruction, and simulation.