The development of an interactive instructional program to provide knowledge in design technologies

This project proposes a conceptual design for an instructional software program on design technologies. It deals with the application of microcomputer technology in education in design technologies.;In broad terms, the project consists of two parts. The first part deals with the establishment of a theoretical framework as a basis for development of instructional software. This is achieved through literature review in the areas of industrial design technologies and instructional design. The second part of the project deals with the design development of a concept for an instructional software program on design technologies.;A integrated instructional software development approach is developed as a guiding framework for the project that is derived from the areas of instructional design and industrial design. A computer based instruction strategy, the simulation model, is selected based on analysis of design technologies within the framework of the approach defined.;This model provides the basis for design exploration and development. The final proposal for an instructional program in design technologies is developed as a conceptual demonstration only. It focuses on later design activities or design development, dealing with the selection of materials and processes as well as design detailing. It is therefore not conceived as a conceptual design tool.