Two issues central to the production of cognitive conflict in the computer environment are discussed. The first one focuses on the use of simulations versus real-world experiences, and the second is directed at the potential for incidental and spontaneous learning versus controlled learning with the computer. (CT)

Calls for a coalition of different research methods and strategies to better understand learning and development. Describes two such strategies: (1) testing-the-limits decomposing age-graded differences in upper limits of plasticity; and (2) experimental simulation of development, a coordinated sequence of theory-guided research steps. Both…

Demonstrates that connectionist models described in "Rethinking Innateness" (Elman, et al., 1996) depend on innately assumed representations and do not offer a genuine alternative to nativism. Presents simulation results showing that the models are incapable of deriving genuine abstract representations that are not presupposed. Maintains…

Describes exercises that can uncover the assumptions underlying educational practice: (1) scenario analysis; (2) critical debate; (3) simulations of crisis decisions; (4) identifying heroes and villains; and (5) analysis of critical incidents. (SK)

Considers nature of learning; significance of promoting learning rather than teaching; active nature of learning from experience; role of simulations and games in promoting learning; process of debriefing and its relationship to reflection; and teacher role. The Learning System, which relates general systems theory to process of learning, is…

Discusses the design and use of simulations and games in education based on personal experiences over a period of 20 years and offers insights relating to design techniques, participant reactions, alternative approaches to learning, the impact of experiential approaches, the importance of debriefing, cross-cultural communication, and therapeutic…

Discusses the use of computer simulations in an instructional context and emphasizes the need for learner support. The SIMULATE project (Simulation Authoring Tools Environment) is described, the concept of intelligent simulation learning environments (ISLEs) is explained, and a conceptual framework for articles included in this issue is presented.…

This paper addresses the characteristics and applications of artificial intelligence (AI) as a subsection of computer science, and briefly describes the most common types of AI programs: expert systems, natural language, and neural networks. Following a brief presentation of the historical background, the discussion turns to an explanation of how…

Considers two basic models of the teaching-learning process, described as the didactic and the communication models, and applies them to computer assisted learning. Conventional and intelligent tutorials and simulation are used as examples to compare the amount of control students have over learning strategy, content manipulation, and domain…

The essence of the computer revolution is yet to come, for computers are essentially generators of realities. Virtual reality (VR) is the next step in the evolutionary path; the user is placed inside the image and becomes a participant within the computational space. A VR computer generates a direct experience of the computational environment. The…

This paper explores new technologies, including computers and videodiscs, considering what they offer to education, how they can help contain educational costs, and how schools can begin to plan a smooth transition from today's primitive classroom environment to the electronically-equipped classroom of tomorrow. The introduction discusses general…

Discusses the relationship of fidelity and learning in computer simulation. Highlights include a review of previous research; a discussion of transfer of learning; a taxonomy for fidelity analysis with four different types of computer-based instructional simulations; and implications for instructional design and research. (41 references)…

Considers nature of debriefing, its central importance in experience-based learning, and its relationship to briefing, as well as debriefing's purposes, their relationship to different types of knowledge being processed, and various ways to organize the process. Suggestions to make the debriefing experience more effective are presented. (MBR)

Description of computer-based simulations focuses on the instructional functions of simulations and phases in the learning processes that should be activated by educational simulations. Highlights include a general model for simulation design; degree of learner control; complexity of the content; the role of the learner; and motivational…

Discussion of how to teach thinking and problem-solving skills focuses on a study of seventh graders that attempted to convey expertlike behavior using LEGOLogo to explain how a washing machine operates. Topics addressed include concept representation and mental models; cognitive apprenticeship; and LEGOTClogo as a learning environment. (Contains…