Ways games can be used to improve human performance, with examples of simulation games. Uses include instruction, evaluation, experimentation, and organizational development. (Author/LS)

Describes current motivational theory and attempts to deduce methods that might be appropriate to motivational management in simulation and gaming contexts. (Author)

An annotated bibliography of information sources for instructional simulations and games. Includes references and descriptions for current books, periodicals, and directories in the field. (Author)

The use of a computer program to provide a simulated genetics laboratory for students in an introductory course in genetics is described. (Author)

The distinction between Type 1 and Type 12 sampling in connection with measurement data is discussed, and a method is presented for simulating data arising from Type 12 sampling. A Monte Carlo study is described that shows conditions under which precise confidence level control under Type 12 sampling is maintained. (SLD)

An extension to the SIBTEST procedure of R. Shealy and W. Stout (1993) to detect differential item functioning (DIF) is proposed to handle polytomous items. Results of two simulations suggest that the modified SIBTEST performs reasonably well and sometimes can provide better control of impact-induced Type I error inflation. (SLD)

Results of a simulation study imply that S X squared may be a useful tool in detecting the misfit of one item contained in an otherwise well-fitted test, lending additional support to the utility of the index for use with dichotomous item response theory models. (SLD)

Developed a method for conditional pairwise estimation in the Rasch model for ordered response categories using principal components analysis and evaluated the procedure through a simulation study. Results show that the quality of the estimates is excellent. (SLD)

Discussion of instructional research on simulation focuses on problems with validation research methodology. Discusses simulation fidelity and verification and reviews various concepts employed in the literature of simulation evaluation and integrates them into a coherent framework from which the evaluative process may proceed in a more systematic…

Combined several developments in statistics and item response theory to develop a procedure for analysis of dichotomously scored test data. This version of nonparametric item response analysis, as illustrated through simulation and with data from other studies, marginalizes the role of the ability parameter theta. (SLD)

Compared the quality of item parameter estimates for marginal maximum likelihood (MML) and Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) with the nominal response model using simulation. The quality of item parameter recovery was nearly identical for MML and MCMC, and both methods tended to produce good estimates. (SLD)

Describes simulation-based learning in medical education and presents four these that make a framework for simulations: (1) best standards of care and training; (2) error management and patient safety; (3) patient autonomy; and (4) social justice and resource allocation. (SLD)

Conducted a Monte Carlo study to compare various approaches to detecting differential item functioning (DIF) under a conceptualization of DIF that recognizes that observed data are a mixture of data from multiple latent populations or classes. Demonstrated the usefulness of the approach. (SLD)

Generated data to simulate multidimensionality resulting from including two or four subtopics on a test. DIMTEST analysis results suggest that including multiple topics, when they are commonly taught together, can lead to conceptual multidimensionality and mathematical multidimensionality. (SLD)

A specialized training program at Lake Superior College in Duluth, Minnesota, prepares rescue workers for aircraft disasters. Simulators provide opportunities for hands-on training. (JOW)