Discusses the implications of authentic activity as a model of learning, particularly in the design of computer-based simulations and project-based learning activities. Addresses the characteristics of problem-solving situations, educational simulations, and authentic learning activities; and identifies key guidelines in the design and development…

The HyperCard-based computer-assisted instructional environment described--called the Virtual Computer (VC)--uses simulation to help learners acquire basic concepts about the functioning of computers. Discussion of the instructional design of the program includes Elaboration Theory, four learning phases, use of metaphors and analogies, other…

Compares the academic performance of students exposed to either "wet" practical classes or "simulated" practicals. Assessed practical write-ups from pharmacology students using a simulation showed a mark significantly better than those doing the "wet" practical. Simulations can provide an aid to learning which is as effective as "wet" practicals,…

Provides a classification, review, and critical analysis of instructional systems available on the Web that can be used by students to learn programming. Reviews drill and practice systems, tutorial systems, and simulation systems and analyzes them according to established standards for instructional design. (Author/LRW)

This study presents an application of a measure of learner involvement developed by Paas, Tuovinen, van Merrienboer, and Darabi (2005). These authors combined learners' performance scores with their perceived mental effort invested in instruction and used it to assess learner involvement in instructional conditions. The present study examines the…

Australian higher education increasingly relies on flexible modes of delivery as a means of attracting and retaining students in a highly competitive global education market. While education is among those disciplines that have been most actively involved in the shift from face-to-face to online learning and teaching, the transition for many…

This paper describes the Virtual Training Program (VTP) at Fort Knox (Kentucky) which aims to provide the United States Army National Guard units with intensive, time-compressed training opportunities. The program consists of: (1) computer-generated exercises that compel units to perform actions associated with training objectives; (2) realistic…

Simulations provide practice in aspects of care without harm or inconvenience to the actual patient. Five types of simulations have been identified that vary in their fidelity to real situations - written simulations, three-dimensional models, computer-based patient management problems, multi-media approaches and simulated patients. Uses and…

Describes three principal types of embedded training: help systems, simulations, and intelligent tutors. Implications of designing and implementing embedded training are discussed in terms of a set of propositions about the use of computers for learning. (Author/MBR)

This paper describes Virtual University (VU), a simulation of higher education administration that provides graduate students an instructional tool that offers an active learning environment, develops intrinsic motivation to learn, and serves as a practical, concrete learning experience. The first section describes VU, including features available…

The Carolina Coastal Science Web site is an instructional system defined as an arrangement of resources and procedures used to promote learning. This paper describes the blending of a systems approach to instructional design with additional constructivist elements in order to develop the Carolina Coastal Science Web site. The Web site is an online…

Describes and contrasts the two authors' teaching styles. Proposes dimensions on which simulation teaching style and game administration design might vary. Argues that teaching style and game design have a considerable impact on learning-related outcomes from simulation. Recommends that the relationship between teacher/administrator behaviors,…

Present engineering has to deal with increasingly complex systems. In particular, this is the case in electrical engineering. Though this is obvious in microelectronics, also in the field of power systems engineers have to design, operate and maintain highly complex systems such as power grids, energy converters and electrical drives. This is…

The significant increase of English Language Learners (ELLs) in the United States raises complex questions about how to provide these students with access to high quality education that can improve both their content knowledge of school subjects and their English proficiency, particularly their academic English proficiency. The development of…

This paper describes a multi-user role-playing environment, referred to as "e-drama", which enables groups of people to converse online, in scenario driven virtual environments. The starting point of this research, is an existing application known as "edrama", a 2D graphical environment in which users are represented by static…