CDST Page

What is the CDST? The Courseware Designer Support Tool, or ‘CDST,’ is a software tool that provides support for instructional design activities.  The CDST is designed to be used by ‘non-expert designers.’ This includes trainers, subject-matter experts, programmers, and others who build instructional software (‘Courseware’) but do not have formal training or significant experience in instructional design.    The CDST is a unique tool for supporting the instructional design of courseware.  This is largely due to its ability to help the user produce multiple design prototypes.  Frequent reviews of prototypes help ensure that design objectives will be accomplished.  Standard instructional design activities are supported in the context of rapid prototypes, including determination of project scope, analysis of tasks and learners, selecting a design (instructional strategy) organizing knowledge, planning and developing content, supporting production, roll-out, and evaluation.				Major Features 24 Lessons introducing the principles and success factors of expert-level instructional design Reference system that provides detailed overviews of the courseware design process Advisor system Design database for tracking details of instructional design projects Courseware design reporting system Multi-user through a LAN 111 worksheets provide detailed guidance about key instructional design tasks Rapid prototyping tools that allow users to create and review lessons Note-taking feature for reviews Worksheet printouts in .pdf format for sharing and reviews Support for fundamental design skills such as interviewing, reviewing literature, etc. Supports the incorporation of 30 key learning research findings into course designs. All CDST content can be easily edited or revised to meet organizational needs.
	Scientific Basis The CDST is the result of original research into expert instructional design practices.  ISRD conducted a three-year experimental study, sponsored by the Office of Naval Research.  The study inquired into the instructional design practices of 25 experienced instructional designers.  The designers had extensive backgrounds in courseware design and development.   A paper summarizing the research basis of the CDST has been submitted for publication.  Copies are available by special request.  Contact ISRD for more information.   Overview slides on the CDST software:  CDST Overview Demonstration A demonstration tour of the CDST is available for viewing.  The demo uses Macromedia Flash, and runs about 14 minutes:  CDST Demonstration Tour.			To Use the CDST The CDST is no longer available for license to individual users.  If you are interested in site license or corporate or large organization use of the ISRD Expert Design Method, contact ISRD.