The future of MILE software will likely incorporate XML compliant mark-up language, since a version with XML already exists. Because standards for instructional materials in XML are being developed by IMS, it should be easy to concentrate on drill components and make use of the XML languages for some of the multimedia elements that we wish to incorporate. The use of XML should therefore add extra functionality. It will probably no longer be worthwhile to continue using Toolbook since it will now be possible to press a CD of a web site. This development will enable us to use the testing functions of WebMILE for grading students efficiently as well.
Our next version of the CD will include "talking heads" delivering up to one-minute mini-lectures. We have done the prototype of this using Quicktime, but we are still experimenting with the quality of the sound. The idea of "talking heads" is to introduce a sound component that will reiterate points that the students are reading and using in exercises. It will be a means of reinforcement and an attempt at personalizing instruction, though some of our team find the idea of "talking heads" on the retro side.
While project like the PREP editor software have revealed that teachers' oral responses are least useful to students because they are difficult to use and hard to review, our notion of mini-lectures seems worthwhile, at least as an experiment, because it aims to supply an audio component for those who need verbal reinforcement. These taped responses may be easily reviewed by students using the software, and it is hoped that they will provide a more recognizable link to what goes on in the classroom. Creating this kind of consistency in instruction is important for a course like Writing in the Electronic Age that aims to teach students fundamentals of writing and editing, at the same time as it encourages reading and response about Multimedia and introduces students to electronic discussion lists and to writing for the web.