A computer-assisted learning/teaching model is conceived with implications of constructivist theory and an analogy between the traditional art form Shuanghuang and the teaching/learning environment. The virtual character of the model interacts with the learner, in the form of human behavior and speech supported by recognition biometrics,…

Describes a comprehensive food service computer needs assessment conducted in Minnesota. Includes three phases: (1) defining the needs of the food service; (2) evaluating vendors and their systems; and (3) system selection and contract negotiations. Cites availability of two documents published in the process.(MLF)

Describes findings of a report issued by the United States Department of Commerce that revealed the "digital divide" between households of different races and income levels is growing. Highlights two partnership projects offering computer training and equipment donations. (AEF)

Describes Apex (Assistant for Preparing Exams), a tool for evaluating student essays based on their content. By comparing an essay and the text of a given course on a semantic basis, the system can measure how well the essay matches the text. Various assessments are presented to the student regarding the topic, outline, and coherence of the essay.…

Describes the development and current status of virtual reality (VR) and VR research. Market potentials for VR are discussed, including the entertainment industry, health care and medical training, flight and other simulators, and educational possibilities. A glossary of VR-related terms is included. (LRW)

Describes a graphic modeling, natural language processing system, VerbalImage, which mimics features of human shape reasoning. Subjects read the same text description and were able to recognize the image generated by the computer from among a series of other computer-generated images. Performance on task was as good as for a control group…

Analyzes computer-based simulations of workplaces to determine potential problems that might impede their use in school-to-work programs. Simulations were classified according to type and critiqued regarding common usage problems. Concludes that simulations can play an important role in school-to-work transition programs, even if not specifically…

A general review of the evolution of the use of the computer to construct school timetables (time structures) in Great Britain. (HB)

A discussion of how a systematic reduction of behavioral objectives to a manageable form was performed in Mentor, Ohio. (HB)

A system of computer assisted design for instructional materials (CADI) would increase the productivity of instructional designers of software, and keep costs from escalating as rapidly as they are at present. At Wayne State University, some steps toward CADI have been taken, with the result that personnel time has been reduced for some…

This report describes the development of an economically viable teaching system using a computer-based educational system. The PLATO system, used at the University of Illinois for the past nine years, is discussed. The authors report that by using newly-developed technological devices it is economically and technically feasible to develop…

Presented are the results of a study designed to determine the effect of computer applications on achievement in a college introductory calculus course. Experimental and control classes were compared at each of three participating colleges. The experimental classes solved calculus homework assignments using timesharing remote computer terminals.…

This report consists of five separate papers. The first is an extensive review of the "state of the art" in computer simulation and artificial intelligence. This review states that artificial intelligence and computer simulation have accomplished a great deal, with particular attention to findings relevant to psychology. The second paper is an…