| Sumario: | The purpose of this study is to develop a Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) module prototype that will train special educators in the field of medical concepts related to the neonate. The module content used in this prototype provides instruction in the concepts of transitional physiology of the cardiovascular system of the neonate to students in a teacher preparation and special education program. Health educators, and more specifically, infant special educators, require a sound and scientific knowledge base of many biological systems, but especially, the cardiovascular system, when working with high-risk infants and their families. This study developed a CAI module by using HyperCard and VideoWorks II in a collaborative venture between a domain knowledge expert (the author) and a computer programmer. The resultant CAI module, Fetal Cardio-Tutor, was administered to eight subjects. The responses of the eight subjects to the computer method of instruction were recorded and a questionnaire using a Likert Scale and open-ended questions elicited reactions and responses. The work of this study demonstrated that a CAI could be developed and that the CAI method of instruction was found to be effective in teaching transitional physiology of the cardiovascular system of the neonate to special educators. The data from the questionnaire revealed positive reactions to the CAI module and the respondents unanimously agreed that they would recommend it to special educators. Special educators will benefit from this approach to instruction and the use of computers in teacher preparation programs. By using computer technology in universities and schools of education, difficult concepts and ideas can be made more visually exciting and relevant to the learning process.
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