Theoretical Definition of Instructor Role in Computer-Managed Instruction

The unique demands of a computer-managed instruction (CMI) system require the development of instructor roles and functions that are tailored to this environment. While there are several large-scale CMI systems currently operating both in military and civilian worlds, there has been no systematic attempt to analyze this training environment and to design a set of behaviors for the CMI instructor. Specification of optimal instructor roles and the development of training programs to teach the requisite skills should be significantly increase the effectiveness of the CMI instructor. This report summarizes the results of literature reviewed in the areas of (1) relevant theoretical frameworks for defining ideal CMI instructor roles, and (2) existing CMI system functions and definitions of CMI instructor roles. Also, it outlines a format for the Theoretical CMI Instructor Role Specification that will be used to identify specific instructor behaviors within each role and to assess deviations of the ideal from actual CMI instructor behaviors in selected military CMI environments.