A Computer-Based Instructional Management Program for Classroom Use.

An instructional management program was developed to assist students in selecting learning activities. The program was based on a general model for specifying hierarchical curriculum structure. This model was developed using the directed graph, a mathematical form of a structural model. A hierarchy could then be generated from the curriculum designer's responses about the prerequisite relationships among the lessons in his curriculum. Using a student mastery data base, programs were designed to input data on a student's mastery of lessons, list data, and putput options for learning activities for students. The program to provide options eliminated lessons which students had already mastered and printed out an option only if all its prerequisites had been mastered. Also, feedback about activities chosen was returned to the designer. Flowcharts for these programs are included. Field tests of the programs in a first-grade science class led to the conclusion that its future application requires mature students, a relatively free instructional setting, a quick and reliable computer system, outside financing, close ties to classroom management, and a structured curriculum based on well defined objectives. (Author/JK)