Computer simulations are considered efficient in supporting exploratory learning. This paper highlights instruction challenges and undesirable consequences on student learning in exploratory learning with computer simulations in classroom situations. A classroom with students who explore using simulations contains ideas explicated on several…

This is a small-scale qualitative participatory research study conducted in two large primary schools in Ireland with classes for autistic students. The paper reports how a menu of immersive technology learning experiences was thoughtfully designed and employed with autistic children who were communicating through their behavior an aversion to the…

This study aimed to investigate the perception of "presence" of 43 prospective teachers participating in a virtual reality (VR) environment with an immersion function and to describe their opinions and experiences regarding the implementation process. The case study model, a qualitative research approach, was used. Participants…

This research reports empirical evidence of the pedagogical benefits of using two interactive types of immersive spherical dome screens (large and small). Results are drawn from an experiment measuring the emotional, cognitive, perceptual/attitudinal states, and learning outcomes of 102 participants divided into control/experimental groups and…

This study compared efficiency of desktop virtual reality with a conventional classroom learning practice for the teaching and learning of electrical/electronics technology. This was measured through academic achievement, learning interest, and engagement. A quasi-experimental design was employed for this study. Four universities were used for the…

This study aimed to develop, validate, and trial a rubric for evaluating the cloud-based learning designs (CBLD) that were developed by teachers using virtual learning environments. The rubric was developed using the technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) framework, with rubric development including content and expert validation of…

This mixed-methods study sought to identify professional development implementation variables that may influence participant (a) adoption of simulations, and (b) use for inquiry-based science instruction. Two groups (Cohort 1, N = 52; Cohort 2, N = 104) received different professional development. Cohort 1 was focused on Web site use mechanics.…

This study uses theory-based design principles to evaluate the effectiveness of an instructional simulation, simSchool. It begins by examining the simulation and evaluation literature, followed by an evaluation of the simSchool software. It is a Web-based simulation designed to emulate various students (reactions) in order to provide practice for…

The integration of learning games into schools holds significant promise, yet faces numerous obstacles. Ubiquitous games (casual games for smart phones) attempt to motivate students to engage repeatedly with content beyond school, while enabling teachers to facilitate deeper reflection on game-related curricula during class. During a two-year…

Reports the results of a study that examined the patterns of interactions of high school student partners engaged in problem-solving activities while working through computer simulation activities in an astronomy lab. Observations, interviews with teachers and students, and a software program evaluation are discussed. (LRW)

Describes a study focusing on different presentation methods (pairs of students; entire class; and noncomputer list game-type setting) of a computer-based science simulation to sixth-grade students to determine the most beneficial method for student achievement. Results indicate large group instruction is slightly more beneficial. (MBR)

Reports on a program developed in Indiana public schools to hold software evaluation workshops that would compare teacher and student evaluations of the same software. The evaluation process is discussed; tutorials, drill and practice programs, simulations, and games are examined; and tests for correlation are described. (21 references) (LRW)

Describes a self-administered microcomputer-based simulation that allows teacher educators to create customized simulated classroom experiences for their students. Lesson performance measures are discussed, postlesson feedback variables are described, self-perception measures are explained, and results of a posttraining evaluation of the…