In this paper, an abstract semantic model called multimedia augmented transition network (MATN) to model a live TV-like multimedia presentation system for distance learning education purpose is presented. Unlike the original design for CISCO IP/TV system that is built upon Microsoft ActiveMovie technology, a Java-based viewer called (\em JTViewer) is developed to provide the cross-platform capability for CISCO IP/TV system. In the JTViewer system, different media streams need to be synchronized and displayed in real-time. In order to meet this requirement, The MATN model is the underlying semantic model for the presentation in the proposed framework since it provides the visualization of control structure and a good programming data structure for the implementation. An example of distance learning via multimedia presentations is given to illustrate how the MATN model serves as the underlying semantic model for the JTViewer system.
