In 1972, a group of French universities began a joint project under the aegis of the Centre for Educational Research and Innovation. Common concerns of the universities - specifically, the rising cost of education, the need for assessing effectiveness and efficiency of programs, and a 1968 law giving increased autonomy to French universities - led…

The ambiguities surrounding computer simulations in sociology teaching and research on the university level are described and the implications of computers as a teaching technique are explored. Intended as an explanation to sociology teachers and researchers of how students' learning experiences are shaped by their orientations to computer…

The review of the empirical literature on simulation gaming categorizes positive, negative, and contradictory aspects of gaming as an educational tool as revealed by the research. The review, which concentrates on simulation games for elementary and secondary school students, is presented in seven sections. Section I presents a brief history of…

This textbook provides an overview of media used for instruction and communication. Chapters cover the following subject areas: (1) media and the systematic approach to teaching and learning; (2) media and individualized learning; (3) the community as a learning center; (4) choosing, using, and producing media; (5) displaying, and some…

Guidelines are provided for developing a high school course on the fundamentals of the free enterprise system. The course goal is to promote an economically literate citizenry with a positive attitude toward its economic responsibilities. A one-semester course is described in detail, with special comments about the roles of school administrator…

Describes an interactive classroom game designed to enhance student understanding of air pollution control strategies. Discusses the game's focus on the differences in compliance costs that can occur between the three principal control approaches of emission limits, emission permits, and emission taxes. (TW)

The purpose of this research effort was to introduce the use of simulations in adult learning situations to enhance communication skills in a creative, effective, and enjoyable manner. Adult educators in academic settings or in business and industry training can use simulations not only to teach a concept but also to improve communication skills…

A course focusing on the avant-garde epoch and presenting an in-depth look at the arts of the period is described. Peer instruction, individualized instruction, experiential learning, and contracts were incorporated into a traditional lecture format. Student characteristics and attitudes were monitored. Course successes and problems are outlined.…

Playing simulation games is seen as having obvious educational value with players learning through personal involvement. Several games are described, including Communication Networks, Heating and Air-Conditioning (HAC), Construction Management Game, Semiotics, Awards, Blocks, Would You Like to Be an Architect?, POLIGRIP, and PASS. (MLW)

Discusses the development and implementation of a simulation game for a sixth-grade class that used the structure of Thornton Wilder's play, "Our Town," to examine the geographical issues involved in community planning. The land development issue discussed was based on a real-life local concern. (MJP)

Argues the archaeologist/anthropologist approach motivates and engages students, and teaches interpretive and problem-solving skills. Outlines a role play for intermediate grades in which students observe, describe, and make inferences about the contents of a suitcase packed by someone known to the students. Lists objectives, materials,…

Presents 18 secondary level student activities that focus on women in twentieth-century Canadian history. Designed to challenge students to question their assumptions and sharpen critical thinking skills, these strategies use role playing, simulation, and research skills to explore the enfranchisement, socialization and historical role of women.…

Describes a space education center that was developed in a Utah elementary school as a spacecraft simulator. Highlights include funding methods; business and community participation; student programs, including field trip opportunities for other schools; and the use of technology, including videodisc, videotapes, computers, telephone systems, and…

Maintains that literacy and informed decision making in an uncertain world require the ability to reason statistically. Describes a course designed to help students use statistical concepts as tools for social reasoning within simulations of real-world problems. Describes four types of instructional activities used. (CFR)

The effectiveness of a multi-element approach to increase the self-determination of three adolescents with physical and multiple disabilities was examined. The intervention involved equipment and performance adaptations, brief in-school simulation training, and instruction and support for parents and home assistance providers. Dramatic increases…