With the advent of open source virtual environments, the associated cost reductions, and the more flexible options, avatar-based virtual reality environments are within reach of educators. By using and repurposing readily available virtual environments, instructors can bring engaging, community-building, and immersive learning opportunities to…

The question of how to best help students understand, accept, and respect difference presents an important challenge for educators. As schools embrace an increasingly diverse population, middle school students are likely to encounter on a daily basis people from diverse backgrounds, and with different abilities and disabilities, in their schools…

A full-dress simulation is an attempt to recreate a moment of history with as much attention to detail as possible. How to plan and execute full-dress simulations to teach secondary students about periods of U.S. history is described. (RM)

Describes a computer game used in an introductory experimental psychology class which simulates in a few months the activities of years of effort in a research laboratory. Ideas on developing new computer based simulation games are included. (Author/JJD)

Describes a college-level psychology course based on using simulation techniques to teach graduate students about child development. Topics discussed include course description, objectives, activities, evaluation methods, and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of the simulation approach. (Author/DB)

The authors present strategies and methods for teaching generalizable skills (including demonstrating skills, grouping students, individualizing instruction, providing simulation and role-play activities, developing student teacher contracts, team-teaching, and designing individual learning activity packets). They also provide a discussion about…

Gives practical ideas for successful first aid simulations with specific steps for planning, executing, and debriefing. Emphasizes safety measures, realism, and planning for a definite purpose, e.g., motivating students to learn first aid/emergency procedures. Suggestions for debriefing cover time to air feelings, construct a factual chronology,…

Prepared by the manager of a virtual reality (VR) laboratory at North Carolina's Haywood Community College, the three papers collected in this document are designed to help instructors incorporate VR into their classes. The first paper reviews the characteristics of VR, defining it as a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional…

Presents a simulation in which students assume the role of committee members of an aid-giving organization which has limited funds to distribute to a number of requests from Tigray, Ethiopia. Students use background papers and program proposals to make decisions, and are encouraged to identify criteria used for supporting a project. (LS)

Incorporating the use of simulators, multimedia systems, and range setups, this driver education curriculum guide provides basic guidelines for the instructor and suggestions for supplemental student activities under these three instructional phases. An introductory section outlines the standards for driver education programs established by the…

Background information and ideas to help K-12 social studies teachers teach about local government are provided in this guide. Activities that involve the study of local governments may be a means by which positive attitudes and skills for citizenship education can be developed. Such activities can give students first-hand experience with the…

This teacher-coordinator manual assists in planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating student learning experiences associated with either a model store, school store, or combination. (A model store in a marketing laboratory simulates marketing functions; the school store markets merchandise to fellow students, faculty, and/or the public.)…

Intended for a group of twelve to fifteen people with one facilitator (chairperson), this game includes materials and instructions for a simulation activity for individuals concerned with how stereotyping of vocational-occupational education and sex role stereotyping can limit enrollment in vocational and occupational programs. Eight group members…

Focusing on outdoor education in a broad sense, this book comprehensively provides elementary school teachers with rationale, planning guidance, and specific ideas for using the outdoors to enhance the development of the whole child through the stimulation of both right and left hemispheres of the brain. Part I presents a definition, rationale,…

Describes a 4-week multidisciplinary unit built around intensive study of a historical period, used in grades 3-5 at Pepperell Intermediate Schools, in Opelika, Alabama. Students experience U.S. history at a five-day fair where periods on history have been recreated. Describes planning for American Heritage Week, the Village Fair, and field trips.…