Abstract
Existing computer-assisted instructional programs for nursing students are studied and their application to the education of practical nurses is considered in the light of recent history of nursing education. Two programs from the Ohio State University Department of Nursing are reviewed and their advantages and disadvantages are discussed. The differences between tutorial programs (Ohio State University programs) and simulation programs (University of Illinois' PLATO) are studied and the conclusion drawn is that at this time there are no true clinical simulations, using the unique capabilities of the computer, available in CAI programs. The factors inhibiting the use of CAI are explained and some suggestions for their reversal are offered.
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