Computer-Based Training: Implementation and System Evaluation.

Following a series of preliminary studies in the early 1970's, the United States Air Force embarked on a major research and development effort to design, demonstrate, and evaluate a computer-based instructional system at a major technical training center. The system, called the Advanced Instructional System (AIS), was developed to demonstrate the feasibility of managing and administering individualized instruction for up to 2,000 students daily in four technical training courses. A major state-of-the-art advancement was an integrated computer-based support capability that provided a full range of computer-based instruction functions, including course development and presentation, resource allocation and scheduling, and individual student management. A unique feature was the Adaptive Model, which produced student prescriptions based on tradeoffs among learning requirements, student characteristics, and resource availability. To support the integrated CBI system, a higher-order language called CAMIL (Computer-Assisted/Managed Instructional Language) was developed. Hardware support was provided by a CYBER 73-16 computer with 10 management terminals and 50 interactive terminals. This paper describes the background of the AIS, summarizes the evaluation data, and discusses current efforts underway as a result of lessons learned from the AIS demonstration program.