Self-directed learning program and the library: supporting instructors in development of multimedia instructional programs.

For both instructors and students, the epitome of computer-based instruction is a program that presents precisely the information that the instructor wants students to know. The program is interactive, selfpaced, self-directed, and, unlike the instructor, never distracted or too tired or in too much of a hurry. The program may be a tutorial, a self-assessment quiz, a presentation of cases, or an exam. Students may use the program individually, with a study partner, or with a small group. The instructor may work with students using the program in the lecture hall setting or in a problem-based learning setting. But, most importantly, the information presented is the right information. Advances in technology and software, together with a heightened appreciation of self-directed learning, have fostered interest among busy instructors in the development of computer-based multimedia instruction programs. Instructors want to incorporate their own slides and teaching materials into self-instructional programs. They often want to work personally on the program but have limited time and expertise and must rely heavily on support units of which they know very little. If these instructors can be prepared to participate actively in the development process, and the support units, such as the library, computing department, media production services, and educational development office, can work as a team to assist instructors through the process, then the number of programs developed and their relevance to the curriculum can be increased.