Describes computer simulation programs that take elementary and secondary students exploring. One has students act as Magellan commanding his ship to reinforce history, geography, decision-making, and resource management skills. Another has students use problem-solving skills to venture across oceans and find trading routes to the Orient. (SM)

Describes use of computer simulation which generates bird songs so that students can analyze song motifs and sequences as an introduction to descriptive analysis of behavior in an animal behavior course. Advantages of the simulation are discussed together with computer hardware/software needed and data presentation, analysis, and generation…

Describes a package of computer programs developed to implement an oil exploration game that gives undergraduate students practical experience in applying theoretical principles of petroleum geology. The programs facilitate management of the game by the instructor and enhance the learning experience. (Author/MBR)

Describes five statistical simulation programs developed at Wichita State University--Coin Flip and Raindrop, which demonstrate the binomial, Poisson, and other related distributions; Optimal Search; QSIM; and RANDEV, a random deviate generation program. Advantages of microcomputers over mainframes and the educational uses of models are noted.…

Computers in non-school settings, educational computer games, and education without schools are the primary topics covered in this three-section paper. The first section describes the use of personal computers in two different, non-school environments: the home and computer clubs. A "diary study" by Yaakov Kareev is summarized, in which…

Describes a computer curriculum for 7- to 12-year-old children which is designed to integrate the computer into multiple subject areas and stimulate the development and sharpening of critical-thinking skills. The course is divided into eight conceptual units, each containing educational computer games or simulations and some related off-line…

The article presents technology projects that provide real-life reasons for students to learn geography. A variety of online networks take students on online field trips, linking them with scientists, zoologists, archaeologists, and explorers. Other interactive software is available to simulate trips to various locations around the world. (SM)

Describes seven styles of software designed to improve mathematics and science learning: (1) microworlds, (2) educational games, (3) microcomputer-based instrumentation, (4) databases, (5) tools, (6) languages, and (7) simulations. A list of recommended science and mathematics software is presented with suggestions for further areas for software…

In October and November 1986, the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (NWREL) sponsored a series of forums for elementary teachers to share ideas about the use of computers in the classroom. During the forums, each teacher took from 15 to 30 minutes to explain how he or she taught the lesson that was being shared. The informality of the…

A research program was undertaken to study the functional learning environment (FLE) in which computers operate, i.e., those environments in which learning activities have a function or purpose from the child's viewpoint. Results of three projects illustrate the importance of teachers in creating and interpreting children's learning environments.…

Discusses the systems thinking approach that uses microcomputer-based simulations and modeling to enhance teaching and learning activities in middle school and high school instruction. Particular focus is placed on the Systems Thinking and Curriculum Innovation Network project, part of a longitudinal study managed by Educational Testing Service.…

Describes readiness activities which introduce telecommunications skills into the classroom. Computer activities and programs that simulate message writing and data retrieval are highlighted, and writing exercises that do not require computers are also included. Specific instructions are given for PFS readiness, a program which simulates an…

Some specific uses of microcomputers in mathematics instruction are presented. Included are examples for generating data and patterns, checking, practice of various types, developing understanding, comparing results, simulation of experiments, introducing new ideas, solving problems, and extending into new areas. Brief computer programs are given.…

The creative process of teaching is discussed. Teachers are artists because they employ creativity when they formulate, select, and organize their ideas into a medium which is called a lesson. This medium, in turn, is the means which provides a learning experience for others. There are eight articles. In the first article, "What is a Lesson?"…

This curriculum guide was developed to assist business instructors using Dac Easy Accounting College Edition Version 2.0 software in their accounting programs. The module consists of four units containing assignment sheets and job sheets designed to enable students to master competencies identified in the area of automated accounting. The first…