As immunology continues to evolve, many educational methods have found difficulty in conveying the degree of complexity inherent in its basic principles. Today, the teaching-learning process in such areas has been improved with tools such as educational software. This article introduces "Virtual Immunology," a software program available…

Exchange of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) material between institutions is often impeded by incompatabilities of hardware, software, and curriculum. The use of a driver program is suggested to resolve these problems and facilitate exchange of instructional material. Technical details of the program described (and lessons used) are available…

Outlines a sequence used to prepare and to administer examinations by computer. The sequence, based on programs described in an earlier issue of "The Physiologist," is presented under four headings: preliminary steps; taking the quiz; grading the quiz; and flexible options. Information on obtaining the programs is included. (JN)

Lists 12 simulation programs covering respiratory mechanics, gas exchange, chemoregulation of respiration, ventilation/perfusion relationships, and acid-base balance. Describes the structure of a typical program and shows how the programs are used during lecture and laboratory sessions. (JN)

Describes an oxygen transport model computer program (written in Applesoft BASIC) which uses such variables as amount of time lapse from beginning of the simulation, arterial blood oxygen concentration, alveolar oxygen pressure, and venous blood oxygen concentration and pressure. Includes information on obtaining the program and its documentation.…

Describes a program which simulates animal pharmacology experiments involving "all-or-none" responses. Use of the Applesoft BASIC program in the pharmacology teaching laboratory provides students with a rapid and economical way to gain experience in the design and statistical analysis of quantal dose-response experiments. Information on…

RESPSYST is a computer program (written in BASICA and using MS-DOS/PC-DOS microcomputers) incorporating more than 20 of the factors that determine gas transport by the cardio-respiratory system. The five-part program discusses most of these factors, provides several question/answer sections, and relies heavily on graphics to demonstrate…

Describes a program which uses a series of algebraic equations calculating mean skin temperature and mean body temperature. The program, which uses the well-established physiological model by Burton, is written in Microsoft BASIC for TRS-80 microcomputers; however, it can be easily modified for other microcomputers. (JN)

Describes a computer program (for the IBM microcomputer) which simulates pulsatile events in the heart in time frames that approach the speed of physiological events. The program also simulates the experimental laboratory in which the mechanics of an isolated heart can be studied. (Author/JN)

Describes computer strategies designed to emphasize teaching of an integrative view of cardiovascular physiology. They include: (1) a group of simulated laboratories which emphasize an explicit integration of ideas; (2) fault-finding exercises in which those ideas are put to use; and (3) a novel testing device for measuring student progress. (JN)

Discusses how clinical diagnosis is taught to third year medical students, focusing on the software developed and used. At present, the system utilizes menu presentation on an IBM PC, with keyboard responses. (JN)

Describes how a traditional neurophysiology laboratory has been computerized and how students work with digitizing on-line data. Points out advantages of computerization, including the speed, accuracy, and reliability in the acquisition, reduction, and analysis of data. Also describes four generic computer programs tailored to the particular…

Describes and lists a program for Apple Pascal Version 1.1 which investigates the behavior of the bicarbonate-carbon dioxide buffer system in acid-base disorders. Designed specifically for the preclinical medical student, the program has proven easy to use and enables students to use blood gas parameters to arrive at diagnoses. (DH)

Uses examples from four exercises to show how computer-based education (CBE) is used to teach problem-solving in a physiology course. Screen prints are included to illustrate the exercises. Several benefits of using CBE strategies in physiology are also considered. (JN)

Offers suggestions for designing and writing educationally effective computer lessons, outlining the instructional applications of computers. Also presents directives on lesson preparation, program format, graphics use, screen design and question schemata. Problem solving and integrative aspects of computerized instruction are stressed. (ML)