Part 1 provides basic background information about authoring systems and compares them to other programming or authoring languages. There is a helpful figure in this section to show users how to create a multiple choice item with authoring systems. A critique of the technological quality is the essence of part 2. Authoring Systems has eliminated the need for programming, but critics may argue that the overall quality of instruction may be compromised. Programs will be authored by amateur users and no longer a team of experts.
Logic errors are still possible to commit, particularly by neophytes.
Recommendations for selection of the system and an Appendix of different systems are included in this part. In general, authoring systems have become simpler, more powerful, and widely accepted. The systems should be accommodate the user and meet hardware and cost constraints. I found the article helpful and pertinent to my course of study in computer-assisted instruction at the University of Maryland .