An intelligent videodisc system on which comprehensive instructional development research can be conducted has been developed. This integrated learning system combines all other existing media, except objects, using a videodisc, microcomputer, printer, single monitor, hard disc storage with CPU for random access digitized audio, and headphones. The system components can provide stills or motion with any variation of realism, two audio tracks, any computer-based instruction feature, hard copy, a high-resolution color display, and a touch screen. Future research can combine design attributes not possible or easily done before, including the combination of realism levels on one visual, complex cueing strategies, and realism combined with a touch screen. A systematic research approach to the identification of effective instructional design techniques is needed and is now possible by varying the videodisc system design features. Dwyer's heart materials would be useful in such research, because they incorporate different levels of objectives and visual abstraction to enhance instruction. Dwyer's model identifying the types of complexities associated with abstraction level in visuals, modified to account for visual learning processes, combined with the heart materials and the videodisc system would allow complex investigations. (LMM)