An Evaluation of Some Common CAL and CBT Authoring Styles

Abstract

Computer‐assisted learning (CAL) and computer‐based training (CBT) programs have rarely been evaluated in terms of their suitability of style. This paper reports on an investigation into five common presentation styles. A clear preference for graphical presentation was found, though monochrome and coloured textual presentations were also preferred over two types of simulation (textual and graphical). Diffferences between computer‐naive and computer‐literate users are explored. These results are discussed in terms of design principles for current and future‐based instructional materials.