Automated Lecturing
J. D. Clarke, K. Buckle · International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology · 1974
There was a need at Cranfield to teach FORTRAN programming using a system of computer‐aided instruction. The system that is now being implemented involves each student using an alpha‐numeric terminal (teletypewriter or visual display unit) and the discourse consists of text, questions, student's answers and, where necessary, corrections to those answers. Early in its development, it was realized that the system could, with generalization, be used to teach any subject which is expressed in alpha‐numeric terms. The paper briefly describes this generalized system, ALECS, and the mode of operation of a teaching program in it. A special language ALLAN was devised with the object of making the design of such a teaching program as easy as possible. An example of one such teaching program, ALF, is given. This is used for teaching FORTRAN programming, but the same techniques may be used in teaching, for example, algebras, natural languages and symbolic logic. Future enhancements considered include procedures to assess both students’ progress and the quality of a teaching program and for automated look‐up of nominated topics. Such enhancements will be made with the principle of keeping the system as general as possible.