The incorporation of engaging and meaningful learning experiences is essential for the enhancement of critical thinking and the development of scientific literacy. The study engaged several groups of students in activities designed to elicit their understanding of a graphical representation of motion, and to determine the kinesthetic effect of…

This paper presents a Simulation-based interactive Virtual ClassRoom web system (SVCR: www.vclasie.com) powered by the state-of-the-art cloud computing technology from Google SVCR integrates popular free open-source math, science and engineering simulations and provides functions such as secure user access control and management of courses,…

Abstraction is a key concept in CS, one of the most fundamental ideas underlying CS and its practice. However, teaching this soft concept to novices is a very difficult task, as discussed by many CSE experts. This paper discusses this issue, and suggests a general framework for teaching abstraction in CS to novices, a framework that would fit into…

Teaching undergraduates the basic properties of an estimator can be difficult. Most definitions are easy enough to comprehend, but difficulties often lie in gaining a "good feel" for these properties and why one property might be more desired as compared to another property. Simulations which involve visualization of these properties can…

In late October 1967, the USS Scorpion was lost at sea, somewhere between the Azores and Norfolk Virginia. Dr. Craven of the U.S. Navy's Special Projects Division is credited with using Bayesian Search Theory to locate the submarine. Bayesian Search Theory is a straightforward and interesting application of Bayes' theorem which involves searching…

Reports on a process which allows active study of mutating the characteristics of a population of organisms. States that the program, written in C, should run on a MS/DOS system with 640K; CGA is required for graphics output. Describes implementation procedures and two examples using the program. (RT)

Discusses a computer simulation to teach logic design using a Macintosh computer which allows circuits to be built piece by piece. Describes features of the simulation and presents several schematics drawn by the software. (MVL)

Includes a list of favorably reviewed science and mathematics microcomputer software for instructional use in preschool through grade 12. Developed as an aid to educators in locating programs they may want to preview. (MVL)

Discusses under what conditions computer simulations should be used. Considers the aspects and qualities of computer simulations used in simulating science laboratory experiments. Provides suggestions for selecting or designing simulations. Examines the idea of transfer when using simulations. (MVL)

Presents a program in Level II BASIC for a TRS-80 computer that simulates a Turing machine and discusses the nature of the device. The program is run interactively and is designed to be used as an educational tool by computer science or mathematics students studying computational or automata theory. (MP)

Provides a description of a computer program developed to supplement instruction in testing of antibiotics on clinical isolates of microorganisms. The program is a simulation and database for interpretation of experimental data designed to enhance laboratory learning and prepare future physicians to use computerized diagnostic instrumentation and…

A complete listing of a projectile motion program for the Apple II microcomputer is provided. A discussion of this computer simulation and a table with variables used in the program (as well as their meanings) can be found in SE 533 596. (JN)

Discusses why, when and how microcomputer simulations of biological topics should be used in the classroom. Includes a five-step procedure for creating such simulations using population growth as an example to describe each step. Steps include topic/background material selection, writing program, and making support materials for the simulation.…

Discusses four phases in the development of a simulation. These include a definition of the simulated universe (including parameters and boundary conditions), mathematical description of the mode, and programing and testing the simulation. Also discusses the development of a physics simulation, focusing on each of the four phases. (JN)

Provides an annotated list of references on computer-oriented projects. Includes information on computers; hands-on versus simulations; games; instruction; students' attitudes and learning styles; artificial intelligence; tutoring; and application of spreadsheets. (RT)