Modeling has been shown to correct weaknesses of traditional instruction by engaging students in the design of physical models to describe, explain, and predict phenomena. Although the modeling method can be used without computers, the use of computers allows students to study problems that are difficult and time consuming, to visualize their…

Plausibility has been implicated as playing a critical role in many cognitive phenomena from comprehension to problem solving. Yet, across cognitive science, plausibility is usually treated as an operationalized variable or metric rather than being explained or studied in itself. This article describes a new cognitive model of plausibility, the…

This supplementary volume presents appendixes A-E associated with a 1-year study which determined what secondary school students were doing as they engaged in the Chelsea Bank computer software simulation activities. Appendixes present the SCANS Analysis Coding Sheet; coding problem analysis of 50 video segments; student and teacher interview…

Four papers from a project concerning information-processing characterizations of the knowledge and processes involved in design are presented. The project collected and analyzed verbal protocols from instructional designers, architects, and mechanical engineers. A framework was developed for characterizing the problem spaces of design that…

Suitable for secondary school students, the workbook provides flowcharting activities to help students understand the logical steps used in problem solving. Before applying the flowcharting procedures to mathematical problems, students are first introduced to familiar non-mathematical problems such as sharpening a pencil or eating peanuts. Section…

In developing an environmental education program, the author suggests a problem-solving process that encourages student involvement. He lists several learning activities that illustrate the four instructional guidelines that he advocates. These guidelines include student involvement and initiation in community change as well as the development of…

An integration of "systems" and "synectic" approaches and an unconventional use of role-playing are salient features of the problem solving workshop, looking for fresh approaches to the improvement of undergraduate education. (JH)

This report of an ongoing research project intended to provide computer assistance to Army units for the scheduling of training focuses on the feasibility of simulated annealing, a heuristic approach for solving scheduling problems. Following an executive summary and brief introduction, the document is divided into three sections. First, the Army…

Described in the context of a computer simulation are highlights of a program of research focusing on the storage of mathematics problem solving information in young children's memory and the development of such knowledge structures in older children. Specifically discussed are the problem size effect, the network nature of the memory…

This paper attempts to summarize briefly the history of the Denison University project for learning through simulation, detailing the range of research, development, education and training, and evaluational efforts which resulted in the establishment of the Denison Simulation Center. The paper includes an explanation of the services currently…

This paper is designed to provide the educator with an overview of instructional applications of the computer, along with important issues related to each application. Applications discussed include computer managed instruction, drill and practice, simulation, computer assisted testing, instructional games, tutorials, problem solving, and…

Operational gaming is a kind of decision simulation where the players make decisions within the framework of a simulated operating system. For the game to have value in developing vocational awareness, the decision-making exercise should be structured around a model of real life vocational decisions. The gaming experience aims toward helping the…

The written simulation is a useful form of instruction in subject matter requiring problem solving and decision making and is also useful for evaluation of learner outcomes in areas where what is learned can best be measured by its use in problem solving and decision making. A number of criteria which stressed the perceived need for greater…

Several recently published books on simulation and games are briefly discussed. Selected research studies and demonstration projects are examined to show the potential of simulation and gaming for teaching and training and for the study of social and psychological processes. The bibliography lists 113 publications which should lead the reader to…