Project IMPACT Software Documentation: III. The IMPACT Data Evaluation System - Version 1 (IDES-1).

Abstract : The IMPACT Data Evaluation System--Version 2 (IDES-2) provides a storage, retrieval, and analysis capability for data generated in Project IMPACT's CAI environment. IDES-2 uses standard PL/1 techniques to perform the required storage, retrieval, and file maintenance activities. Statistical analysis in IDES-2 is provided through the Biomedical (BMD) statistical analysis package, augmented as required at Project IMPACT by especially prepared routines. IDES-2 provides extensive, standard reports summarizing student activity, which are used by authors to evaluate the effectiveness of the instructional material. IDES-2 reports are also used by IMPACT's research personnel to monitor student activity. As a result, IMPACT is able to develop increasingly more efficient instructional decision models. The storage and retrieval component in IDES-2 is documented in detail in this document. All IDES-2 reports, including the method through which each report is generated, and its contents are described, and examples of reports are provided. The document includes source listings for 16 IBM 370 computer programs. (Author)