Describes a four week simulation of the U.S. Constitutional Convention in which ninth grade students use problem-solving and decision-making skills to debate the issues of the convention. Students are assigned identities and interest areas to stimulate the writing of a class constitution which is then compared with the U.S. Constitution. (LS)

An estate planning course offered in one law school uses simulation to develop legal practice skills. Students take the class without background in taxes, trusts, or estates and must learn the subject area to solve a specific problem, simulating actual practice. Students prepare their own problems and critique each other's work. (MSE)

A proposition that 3-D CAD provides an array of unambiguous solutions to engineering problems is illustrated. This proposition assumes that engineering problems are conceived in parallel processing mode while they are solved in sequential processing mode. Circle construction analysis, parallel equidistant planes, and solid modeling are discussed.…

An approach to reduce the barrier between two-dimensional computer-aided drafting and three-dimensional constructive solids modeling is graphically illustrated. This process, or some derivative, encompasses a significant portion of the future direction for engineering graphics education. (KR)

Described is a pilot course which includes a designed set of exercises to instruct students in procedures for creating solid models. A detailed description and analysis of students' various approaches used in completing a final design project are included. (KR)

To test the Lewis and Mayer simulation model (1987) for understanding compare problems, 3 experiments involving 39 college students and 15 third graders used registration of eye movements. Two experiments somewhat support the model, suggesting it holds true only when the task puts cognitive demands on the subject. (SLD)

The problem-solving behaviors and genetics concepts employed by experts and novices during interaction with the computer simulation CATLAB, were examined. Thirteen subjects (3 experts and 10 novices) investigated a common hypothesis on a specific genetic trait during the computer activity. Using naturalistic research methods, general patterns of…

Describes an approach to teaching the scientific method where an outbreak of cholera within the school is simulated. Students act like epidemiologists in an attempt to track down the source of the contamination. (PR)

Examines mathematics problem solving in a computer software environment using graphical representations of the results of simulations with adolescent students. Discusses the strengths and limitations of inferring goals and plans, the use of verbal protocols, and ways for computer-based learning environments to scaffold acquisition of domain…

Describes a study of college students who designed and conducted experiments involving control of variables after being assigned to one of four versions of a computer-based biology simulation learning environment. Finds that reason-justification prompts directed students' attention to understanding the employment of experimental design principles…

Examines the importance of the instructional systems design (ISD) model in designing the presentation and content of technology-based learning (TBL) environments, especially for adult learners. Describes TBLs and their use in university and adult learning and discusses the most common presentation methods: drill and practice, tutorial, simulation,…

Reports on a pilot study that examined use by sixth-grade students in Costa Rica of a mathematical microworld written in LOGO. The investigation had three phases: (1) open exploration of the microworld; (2) group discussion and sharing of hypotheses; and (3) guided discovery and problem solving. (Contains 11 references.) (SLW)

Explores the potential of the RAY learning environment in improving learning about optics. Results indicate that this environment, which includes a flexible ray-tracing simulation, had a significant effect on the spontaneous and correct use of the model by students in solving problems and a limited effect on conceptual understanding, but promoted…

This article discusses the relationship between procedural and conceptual problem solving in a computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) environment designed within the field of science education. The contribution of this article, and our understanding of this phenomenon, is anchored in our socio-cultural interpretation, and that implies…

This pamphlet presents brief reviews of 38 population education software and online systems currently available. It includes mathematical models, simulations, databases, problem-solving games, online systems, and associations. The review includes a description of the program, the level at which it is aimed, required computer hardware, the vendor's…