Research Produces Illustration-Based Computer Textbooks

FREDERICK, Md., Jan. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- A three-year research project sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education has produced a series of illustration-based computer class textbooks. The textbooks' "pictures instead of words" approach makes it easier for beginning students to learn computer subjects.

In 2003, Visibooks, LLC received an SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) grant from the U.S. Department of Education to create computer class textbooks for students with learning disabilities and low English proficiency. Within a year, a prototype textbook was created. Much simpler than conventional textbooks, it featured large illustrations and one-tenth as many words as other computer texts.

Starting in 2004, a series of textbooks based on the prototype were developed. Twenty-eight textbooks on computer basics, Microsoft Office, Web development, Palm devices, and desktop Linux were completed and tested in classrooms during the fall 2005 semester. The textbooks were published by Visibooks, and are now available to schools at http://www.visibooks.com.

While originally intended for students with special needs, the textbooks have been well-received by a variety of students and teachers. Dr. Michael West, an education researcher at Virginia Commonwealth University, says, "Textbooks of this type are well-suited not only to special needs students, but to anyone who finds it easier to learn through Show rather than Tell."

Visibooks, LLC, based in Frederick, MD, publishes illustration-based computer class textbooks. Visibooks textbooks are sold and licensed to schools and corporations worldwide at http://www.visibooks.com. For more information, contact: Chris Charuhas

Visibooks, LLC

(301) 560-4611

chris@visibooks.com This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.