INTRODUCTION

Because of rapid technological developments classroom instruction too has been

revolutionized. The message of technology as well as the technological devices is being applied
in teaching and learning and this has resulted in the evaluation of a special branch known as
Educational Technology. It means the development, application and evaluation of system, aids
and techniques in the field of these technologies paved a way for various innovative instructional
practice. Among them Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) is most important.

COMPUTER ASSISTED INSTRUCTION (CAI)

CAI refers to an educational system of instruction performed almost entirely by
computer. It is a natural outgrowth of the application of the principles of programmed learning. It
also provides systematic and organized learning to maximum level possible, for all learners. It
makes the learning process easy and understanding, the class becomes more effective.
There are 3 type of activities thatcan be done by the CAI programme;
1. Logo: A simple programming language which can be taught to the children.
2. Gaming and simulation
3. Controlled learning(Drill and practice)
Before starting the program me the students checks in with the computer by displaying
his identity number. This connect him with his part of the learning program me. A complete
package of information stored in the system is presented on the computer screen. Then computer
asked questions to test the students, if the student supplies the correct answer, the program me
moves on the next step. If the answer is not correct the computer gives error signal and presented
the topic for re-test. The students can ask question to the computer and feed answer into it by the
help of typewriter key-board. The computer responds by providing comments, answer and
questions.

ADVANTAGES OF CAI
The CAI is certain programmes are number of advantages. They are:
1. Provide individualized, self paced education.

2. Enhance the level of student performance.

3. Create interest in learning.
4. Create positive attitude towards school.
5. Provide immediate feedback.
6. Reduce the number of teachers.
7. Be used to develop skills.
8. Reduce bad effects of human weakness.
9. Easily convey the content material.
10. Easily evaluate learning.
11. Be used for review and practice.
The CAI has also had a number of disadvantaged. These are the
followings:
DISADVANTAGES
1. Fails to appreciate the emotions of the students.
2. The programs cannot solve psychological or educational problem by themselves.
3. Fails to develop essential language competency in which the ability to generate
meaningful sentences is essential.
4. Cannot appreciate the students artistic endeavor, nor can it refine the learners,
perception of those around him and provide experience leading the value orientation.

CONCLUSION
CAI refers to an educational system of instruction performed almost entirely by computer.
The term computer based learning refers to the educational environment. It refers to the use
of computer in classroom. The introduction of CAI has created a fear in the teacher
community that its use in instructional process will eliminate teachers from the teaching
scene, but as a matter of fact CAI is a powerful tool for the teacher in the instructional
process. It helps to reduce the burdens of teachers.

REFERENCE
Social Science Education- Dr. Sivarajan .K
www.researchgate.net.

www.newworld encyclopedia.org.