Refining Computer-Based Invention through Computer-Aided Evaluation and “State-of-the-Art” Tutorial Design

Abstract

The result of utilizing state-of-the-art tutorial research and of making maximum use of the hardware potential of even a microcomputer moves a CAI program far beyond “ad hoc frame-oriented CAI.” Such a system can effectively utilize the potentials inherent in the synthesis of computer technology and sound instructional design in producing a beneficial prewriting experience for the composition student that is not far removed from a similar experience guided by a human tutor. The present article presents the results of a comparison between the effectiveness of two methodologies of eliciting prewriting composition. Method one consisted of CBI that was based upon recent studies in tutoring and CAE techniques; method two consisted of the same methodology with only a different medium employed, that of personal tutoring. The principle question raised was whether or not the CBI method was as good a means of prewriting instruction as that resulting from human tutoring in stimulating prewriting composition.