Certain textbooks can be replaced with computer based expert systems, but these systems need experts trained in the subject matter and computer technology for their creation.

To meet this need the following OBJECTIVES were set forth:

Enrich the educational experience of students by involving them in the creation of a CD-ROM Dendrology Expert System which will replace textbooks that are currently used in Plant Identification courses.

Improve instructional effectiveness by engaging undergraduates in the creation of this expert system which will require utilization of their newly/simultaneously acquired knowledge of trees and wood into a format that is both self reinforcing and beneficial to future students.

Test the effectiveness of this method of learning compared to current pedagogic practices.

The Miami University Dendrology Expert System (MUDES) consisting of six multiple entry interactive keys to Angiosperm and Gymnosperm tree species, wood genera, and tree diseases common to southwestern Ohio and the Northeastern United States was developed using XlD random access expert system authoring software.

I. MUDES DATA BASE COMPONENTS

A. WHICH DATA BASE TO USE?

B. ANGIOSPERM TREES

(120 SPECIES IN 33 FAMILIES)

C. GYMNOSPERM TREES

(22 SPECIES IN 4 FAMILIES)

D. ANGIOSPERM WOODS

(36 GENERA)

E. GYMNOSPERM WOODS

(21 GENERA)

F. ANGIOSPERM TREE DISEASES

(106 COMMON DISEASES)

G. GYMNOSPERM TREE DISEASES

(70 COMMON DISEASES)