Computer-Based Training for the U.S. Coast Guard Standard Terminal Microcomputer: A Basis for Implementation Utilizing the Elaboration Theory of Instructional Design.

Abstract : Various factors concerning the U.S. Coast Guard Standard Terminal microcomputer, including the large number of installation sites, steady turnover of user personnel, and conflicting demands of operational commitments indicate that computer-based training is a desirable approach for indoctrinating new users of the computer system. Any such instructional computer program developed for this purpose should consider the characteristics of the trainee audience, particularly the varied levels of procedural detail desired and constraints on time available for training. The Elaboration Theory of Instructional Design provides an excellent framework for creating a viable computer-based course of instruction. A Pascal computer program and demonstration lesson modules utilize the macro-strategy components of Elaboration Theory in an introductory course on computer procedures. Course presentation is controlled by special characters imbedded in the lesson text files and interpreted by the program. Additional keywords: Theses; Computer aided instruction. (Author)