NLS-SCHOLAR: Modifications and Field Testing.

NLS-SCHOLAR is a prototype system that uses artificial intelligence techniques to teach computer-naive people how to use a powerful and complex editor. This new kind of computer assisted instruction system integrates systematic teaching with actual practice, keeping the user under tutorial supervision while allowing him to try out what he learns on the editor. NLS-SCHOLAR can be used as an on-line help system, outside the tutorial environment, in the course of a user's actual work. Testing on this system revealed that the teaching component of NLS-SCHOLAR is very effective, but the system's performance as an on-line help facility needs improvement. Techniques used in NLS-SCHOLAR are general and can be applied to the teaching of a wide variety of computer related activities. (Author/CH)