Software engineering development methodologies applied to computer-aided instruction

Abstract

The research reported in this paper aims to integrate software engineering approaches with instructional factors in the requirements, analysis, design and production phases of instructional software development. The integration has resulted in the evolution of a branch of software engineering (SE) called courseware engineering. The paper reports on the results of an independent study we have undertaken into the aspects of SE that are appropriate for the development of courseware. Examples of other research efforts combining the disciplines of SE and instructional system development (ISD) are given, where applicable. Two SE methods were identified as being particularly useful and appropriate to ISD: prototyping and object-oriented (OO) design. Factors that support the use and applicability of these two approaches are discussed.