A Computer-Aided Instructional Environment

Abstract

A computer-aided instructional environment which is based primarily upon the direct manipulation paradigm to promote learning by doing, or discovery learning is described. This environment has been implemented and used in an introductory computer science course to teach algorithmic problem-solving. It has been developed as a modular software system which is easily adapted for a wide range of instructional activities and student populations. It provides a simple, adaptable, and conceptually uniform approach to the development of a class of practical CAI systems. Several important characteristics of this computer-aided instructional environment include guiding students toward understanding a concept without being too obtrusive, introducing example tasks and subtasks so students can discover concepts on their own by generalizing from examples, providing meaningful graphical and/or verbal feedback to students, recognizing and gently correcting misconceptions, and knowing when to terminate a tutoring session.

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