Teaching and research in physiology encompass increasingly complex notions of the system under study. Computer modeling fosters understanding by extending the ability to formulate, test, and evaluate hypotheses about the system, and to describe experimental data. The exploration of the model system's behavior serves teaching and investigation in…

The major task in solving a physics problem is to construct an appropriate model of the problem in terms of physical principles. The functions performed by such a model, the information which needs to be represented, and the knowledge used in selecting and instantiating an appropriate model are discussed. An example of a model for a mechanics…

Describes a computer-based Wilderness Travel Simulation Model that reduces the complexity of the outdoor system under study, allows students to act as managers (devising and testing their own management strategies), and increases student exposure to characteristics of actual park and wilderness areas. Two scenarios of recreational use patterns are…

Describes a model which gives realistic predictions of pulsatile pressure, flow, and volume events in the cardiovascular system. Includes computer oriented laboratory exercises for veterinary and graduate students; equations of the dynamic and algebraic models; and a flow chart for the cardiovascular teaching program. (JN)

Describes aims, objectives content, and instructional strategies of a course in systems modelling and control at Imperial College, England. Major problem areas include multivariable control system design, estimation and filtering, and the design and use of adaptive "self-tuning" regulators. (Author/JN)

Describes how computer simulations can enhance students' learning of physiology. Discusses how computer models enhance experimentation; using computer modeling in high school science; three steps in students' writing of a simulation; and the value of simulations. Lists six software vendors who offer packages on the PC or Macintosh platforms. (AEF)

Interpretive Structure Modeling (ISM) helps learners integrate their knowledge of our environment. Demonstrated that educators, including two high school biology teachers, could learn ISM and conduct modeling sessions. Includes discussion of models, modeling building, types of models, modeling building and environmental education, and models and…

Describes the features of various computer chemistry programs. Utilization of computer graphics, color, digital imaging, and other innovations are discussed in programs including those which aid in the identification of unknowns, predict whether chemical reactions are feasible, and predict the biological activity of xenobiotic compounds. (CS)

Recent technological advances and new software packages put unprecedented power for experimenting and theory-building in the hands of students at all levels. Microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) and model-solving tools illustrate the educational potential of the technology. These tools include modeling software and three MBL packages (which are…

Instrumentation, methodology, and analysis techniques were developed to measure changes in adolescents' (N=10) skills in linear distance estimation. Microcomputers were used to present and control amount of information available to assist students in said estimations. Results and implications are reported. (Author/SK)

Describes a new software package for the Apple Macintosh computer which can be used to create elaborate simulation models in a fraction of the time usually required without using a programming language. Illustrates the use of the software which relates to water usage. (TW)

Offers a model of a computer-based evaluation program that can assist in science fair judging. Explains the program's procedures for scoring and its capacities for identifying cases of inconsistent judging. Provides examples of program outputs. (ML)

Research has shown that wait-time (the amount of silence between teacher and student echances) is a part of an interdependent student-teacher interaction system and that the manipulation of this variable has measurable effects on teacher input variables, student outcome variables, and acquisition variables. Since the acquisition of extended…

Discusses current uses of computers in United Kingdom schools, specifically in biology, chemistry, economics, geography, and physics classrooms. Suggests reasons why teachers are using computers and describes their application for simulations; construction, evaluation, and modification of models; and for academic games. (DS)

The 21 essays in this two-part book provide conceptual and operational understanding of the nature of models as representations of reality and as tools for description, analysis, interpretation, and forecasting. Topic areas addressed in part 1 (concept) include: the nature of models; the earth as a system; the determination of form; some…