Computer-aided instruction for VLSI design using the NeXT workstation

A CAI (computer-aided-instruction) environment for teaching the Mead-Conway approach to VLSI design is presented. The NeXT workstation was used as the CAI platform because of its ease in integrating text, graphics, images, and sound to provide an interactive environment. The resulting system is a Hypercard-like video/audio system which teaches the fundamentals of VLSI design. The student interacts with the NeXT machine on a self-paced regimen. Problem areas are indicated and there is the option of going into more detail. All sessions are interactive and provide the student with audio and visual interaction. The NeXT CAI VLSI system is described. Future research directions are discussed