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Macromedia Authorware (now part of Adobe Systems) is an interpreted, flowchart based, graphical programming language. Authorware is used for creating interactive programs that can integrate a range of multimedia content, particularly e-learning applications. The flowchart model differentiates Authorware from other authoring tools, such as Adobe Flash and Adobe Director which rely on a visual stage, timeline, and script structure.
Authorware's distinctive style revolves around a central icon: the Interaction Icon. The structure of the authoring environment encourages rich interaction; complex user feed-back is not only possible but somewhat suggested by the software, rather than suggesting the usual media diffusion. This Interaction Icon allows various forms of user feedback (move object to, along a line, click an object or hot-spot; plus the usual text-entry, keypress, etc.).The original strength in education of Authorware could be linked to its roots in pedagogical models based on constructivist views.
Authorware programs start by creating a flowline, which is a flowchart showing the structure of the developer's program. The developer can add and manage text, graphics, animation, sound and video; develop interactivity and add navigational elements such as links, buttons, and menus.Adobe Flash and Adobe Director movies can also be integrated into an Authorware project. Xtras, or add-ins, can also be used to extend the functionality of Authorware, which is similar to HyperCard's XCMDs. Authorware's power can be even better utilized with the use of variables, functions and expressions. Authorware can interpret both its built-in proprietary scripting language and JavaScript version 1.5.
Over time Authorware has lost its specificity: graphical design, interaction, integration as more scripting was added, more power was gained, but Authorware's special interaction-centered, clean simple design was lost along the way. Authorware programs can be distributed as stand-alone executable files, or over the web which requires a proprietary Authorware Web Player.
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