The PLATO IV computer-based education system and some of the rationale and approach with respect to its evaluation are described briefly. PLATO IV will be evaluated in its application to the training of factors related to the optimization of social influence; specifically, that influence exerted between company commanders and recruits at recruit training commands. Current approaches to teaching social skills are inadequate to meet the needs for such skills. Computer-administered instruction offers a novel and potentially effective medium through which to improve, through training, the quality of social influence.