This study examined how 2 kinds of help when learning from text and pictures (mapping support and instructional guidance through prompts) influence the coherence formation process of integrating information into a mental model. It also explored spatial abilities and working memory span as potential moderators. In a computer-based setting, 84…

The educational design of a project option in an Open University course on evolution is described. Also described is the simulation which models the genetic and evolutionary consequences of two populations of a species of flowering plant coming together after a period of genetic isolation. (Author/JN)

This paper discusses how a university designed, developed, and delivered a feature-rich Web-based course for undergraduate plant biology. In the design stage, the focus centered around curriculum design, content development, and media acquisition. Instructors, including faculty and graduate assistants of plant biology, served as content experts,…

Describes a computer model characterizing the balance of soil-plant Nitrogen that allows students to see the likely consequences of different biological and weather-related parameters. Proposes three uses for the model: (1) orienting beginning students to understand the soil Nitrogen cycle; (2) providing information for advanced students; and (3)…

Discusses the use of a computer program designed to solve the mathematical model associated with soil nutrient uptake by plant roots and to predict the nutrient uptake. Describes a user-friendly personal computer version of this program. (TW)

This study provides detailed descriptions, analyses, and interpretations of student interactions and participation that occurred in computer-mediated interactive writing activities in two different college classroom network situations. A freshman composition class focused on the teaching of writing through assigned exercises and incorporated…

Studies the perceived effectiveness of four student projects involving videotape production, computer conferencing, microcomputer simulation, and rapid-cycling Brassica breeding for undergraduate plant breeding students in two course offerings in consecutive years. Linking of the computer conferencing and video projects improved the rating of the…

To enhance both teaching and learning in an advanced undergraduate elective course on the interrelationships of plants and human affairs, the computer was used for information retrieval, multiple choice course review, and the running of three simulation models--plant related systems (e.g., the rise in world coffee prices after the 1975 freeze in…

Contains 21 articles ranging from instructional experiments to topical information. Deals with investigation of plant rust diseases, using computers to teach biology, plant roots, a biotechnology curriculum, the corrosion of oxides, electrochemical simulations, the Reimer-Tiemann reaction, the oxidation of aldehydes, and the extraction of iodine…

These materials were designed to be used by life science students for instruction in the application of physical theory to ecosystem operation. Most modules contain computer programs which are built around a particular application of a physical process. This report introduces two models of the thermal energy budget of a leaf. Typical values for…

PROVIDED IS A COMPENDIUM OF REPORTS WHICH IS THE FOURTH IN A SERIES ON EDUCATIONAL EXPERIMENT AND DEVELOPMENT AT 11 MIDWESTERN UNIVERSITIES. INCLUDED IS A COLLECTION OF SUMMARIES OF EXPLORATORY EFFORTS BY COLLEGE PROFESSORS TO DEVELOP NEW AND BETTER WAYS OF TEACHING. USUALLY THESE ARE LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS AIMED AT IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS FOR…