Comprehension: Mapping Information, a Program for the Apple Computer.

A computer program written for the Apple II was designed to teach college students how to map expository information. The program consists of five lessons, the first beginning with a definition and illustration of mapping. In this introductory lesson, students are asked to answer three basic questions when reading expository text: identify the subject/topic of the discourse; identify the subcategories/ideas of the discourse; and identify the details of the discourse. Lesson two focuses on the selection of the topic. Paragraph-length text is presented and followed by a multiple choice question directing the student to select the topic. After the topic is selected, a map representing the ideas in the paragraph is shown. Lesson three focuses on selecting the topic and subcategories. Again, a paragraph-length text is presented and followed by a question directing the student to select the topic. Next, the student selects the subcategory. The fourth lesson focuses on selecting the topic, the subcategories, and the details. The procedure for questions and answers is the same as in lesson three. Lesson five presents information concerning creative aspects of mapping. In the program the same color is used to depict certain levels of information, such as orange for topic or green for subcategory. In addition, pictures are used to illustrate the use of mnemonic aids to enhance the recall of information. (HOD)