ABSTRACT
Authoring tools consist mainly of programming languages and computer programs written in these languages. They are classified into four categories: general programming languages, authoring languages, authoring systems, and integrated authoring systems. Several authoring systems for mainframe computers have been redeveloped for use on microcomputers. The innovations in authoring are almost all geared to microcomputers, permitting use of full colour graphics and interactive video, which have not been incorporated into most main frame systems. Embedded systems entail the authoring software having 'hooks' to the applications software, allowing continuous monitoring of performance. Among the most recent authoring systems are those that are termed concurrent. Many present-day authoring systems lack good word processing capabilities, and they offer only rudimentary advice on screen design. The ideal authoring system should enable the trainer-author to improve and update the programs as often as necessary, without having to throw away programs because a new microcomputer has appeared and the old one is obsolete.
