Describes a replication study that explored differences between intermediate experts and novices mastering recurrent demands using a computer-based simulation. Functionality of mental models, declarative knowledge, acceptance of the learning environment, and intrinsic motivation to learn are discussed, and results that show no advantage for…

Compares dyads of secondary school physics students working on a collaborative modeling task using a text-based model representation, in which correct equations are required to make the model run, with others using a graphical representation, in which the model is build by qualitatively linking variables. (MES)

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…

Outlines Component Design Theory, which is based on the author's earlier Component Display Theory, and provides the instructional design guidance needed for experiential computer based instructional systems. Highlights include a contrast between tutorial and experiential instructional models, content structures, consistency rules, instructional…

Describes the SAM (Simulation and Multimedia) project and the rationales behind it. SAM focuses mainly on integrated simulation-based learning environments and creates a framework for authoring, modelling, and learning. SAM methods and techniques are developed to design adaptable courses to meet different learner profiles and to integrate…

BioWorld is a computer-based environment for the high school biology curriculum that provides a hospital simulation where students can apply what they have learned to solve problems about diseases. Analyses of student actions and verbal dialogue were conducted to pinpoint within BioWorld that were most conducive to learning and scientific…

Discussion of computer simulations used for exploratory learning focuses on the design of a hypothesis scratchpad that students can use for hypothesis generation and testing. An experiment with college chemistry students that compared three versions of the scratchpad is described, and the effect of the scratchpads on learning environments is…

Describes a study of high school students that investigated students' responses to an anomaly generated by the juxtaposition of opposing explanatory frameworks and examined the nature and impact of cognitive conflict as students moved from prescientific to scientific explanatory frameworks concerning the concept of force. (19 references)…

Presents thinking-aloud protocols from secondary pupils solving arithmetic story and geometrical problems and analyzes their protocols by using interpretation models founded on a general problem-solving model. A word problem solving simulation is also used to further explicate processes pupils use to solve mathematical tasks. (Author/MBR)