We exhibit a simple model of a plane landing that involves only basic concepts of differential calculus, so it is suitable for a first-year calculus lab. We use the computer algebra system Maxima and the interactive geometry software GeoGebra to do the computations and graphics. (Contains 5 figures and 1 note.)

Assessment is a delicate task in the overall teaching process because it may require significant time and may be prone to subjectivity. Subjectivity is especially true for disciplines in which perceptual factors play a key role in the evaluation. In previous decades, computer-based assessment techniques were developed to address the…

Within the framework of cognitive learning theories, instructional design manipulations have primarily been investigated under tightly controlled laboratory conditions. We carried out two experiments, where the first experiment was conducted in a restricted system-paced setting and is therefore in line with the majority of empirical studies in the…

Most of the emphasis on mining online assessment logs has been to identify content-specific errors. However, the pattern of general "consistency" is domain independent, strongly related to performance, and can itself be a target of educational data mining. We demonstrate that simple consistency indicators are related to student outcomes,…

At the South Burlington (Vermont) High School Imaging Lab, students are learning to manipulate the animation technology that NASA uses to design rockets, Hollywood uses to make movies, and architects use to design buildings. Assisted by grants, an English teacher parlayed a single unused computer into a nationally recognized program that helps…

Two issues of the Soloworks newsletter contain information about the Soloworks project, computer equipment, and the educational philosophy that underlies the student-controlled computer based approach to secondary school mathematics instruction. (JY)

The KoalaPad, an advanced graphic tablet introduced in 1983, reduces the cost and the degree of programing background required to create sophisticated images on the microcomputer. The potentials of the KoalaPad for use in an art education program are discussed, and recommendations for creating a microcomputer graphics lab are presented. (RM)

At Arizona State University in Tempe, Academic Computing Services provides large-scale support for the computer graphics programs. (MLF)

This informal report describes uses of single-user, personalized computer systems at the University of Michigan and discusses the implications of new technologies for improving access to higher education. (Author/MP)

Computational science is defined as science done on a computer. A computer can serve as a laboratory for researchers who cannot experiment with their subjects, and as a calculator for those who otherwise might need centuries to solve some problems mathematically. The National Science Foundation's support of supercomputers is discussed. (MLW)

Suggests a few approaches that will enable a person with some programming experience to incorporate graphic teletype output into simulation programs of interest in chemical education. (Author/PR)

Discusses the use of an optional computer graphics laboratory that has been successful with at-risk elementary school students. The role of art with at-risk students is discussed, laboratory facilities are described, the interaction of students from different grade levels is discussed, and program effectiveness is assessed. (three references) (LRW)

A computer-based education system, PLATO (Programed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations), has been used to teach nursing students at Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Urbana, Illinois since 1963. PLATO III, the model now being used in a maternity nursing course, has 70 student terminals (20 of which can be used at any one time) connected to…

Discusses the use of computer-illustrated texts to teach statistics at the college level. Microcomputer-based software that can be used in the areas of calculation, graphics, simulation, animation, and text presentation is described; and use of the software for lectures, laboratory use, and tutorials is discussed. (three references) (LRW)

A computer-assisted instruction (CAI) project designed a system to teach the elementary properties of statistical distributions in a probability course. It was used to reinforce teacher material with graphic displays and to provide laboratory exercises, the objectives being to promote easier grasp and retention of subject matter. The system…