An activity that introduces students to the concepts of independent assortment of alleles during meiosis and gametogenesis, the richness of the variation that occurs as a result of allele recombination, and the unique phenotypes of offspring. Reproducible handouts with the directions and model chromosomes are provided. (KR)

A graduate course in educational administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill uses simulation of a higher education institution to teach planning. A literature review on strategic planning is combined with an experiential planning exercise using the alternative futures approach. The exercise extends appreciation of planning…

Advocates enhancing understanding of the present through teaching about the past. Presents units of study that are concept based and interdisciplinary, focusing on life in colonial New England. Includes role play and simulation activities that highlight historical periods and provide children direct experiences. Recreates classroom life in…

Reviews two prominent philosophical justifications for animal liberation and describes a simulation that facilitates class discussion of animal research issues. Students reported that the exercise increased their awareness of the issues and of the complexity of making ethical decisions. (DB)

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of three instructional methods and conceptual systems orientation on achievement in a freshman general chemistry laboratory course. Traditional approach, learning cycle, and computer simulations are discussed. (KR)

Presents secondary lessons on population growth and the social factors that influence it. Provides a simulation scenario in which students decide whether or not to raise the marital age or develop other population control policies. Includes charts, cartoons, and student work sheets. (CFR)

Contends that empirical research using laboratory experimental economics has flourished during the past decade. Discusses how two practitioners of experimental economics integrated their research interests into undergraduate economics education. Describes three computerized exercises and includes samples of student handouts and activities. (CFR)

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)

Describes strategies for teaching middle school students in a manner that promotes inclusion while allowing for individual differences, including the needs of special-needs students. Strategies discussed include the use of journals, student designed projects, hands-on experiences, and role play or simulation. (DB)

Describes the development of a speech-activated multimedia system for foreign-language training. The model allows students to engage native speakers on CD-ROM in lengthy face-to-face dialogs using natural spoken language. (Author/VWL)

Describes an experience using a computer simulation on air resistance. There appeared to be differences in how students approach learning in interactive physics learning environments with and without the simulation. (Contains over 20 references.) (Author/WRM)

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,…

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…

Describes an introductory undergraduate astronomy course in which the large-lecture format was moved to one in which students were immersed in a technologically-rich, inquiry-based, participatory learning environment. Finds that virtual reality can be used effectively in regular undergraduate university courses as a tool through which students can…

This study examines the effects of a teaching method using 3D virtual reality simulations on achievement and attitude toward science. An experiment was conducted with fifth-grade students (N = 41) to examine the effects of 3D simulations, designed to support inquiry-based science curriculum. An ANOVA analysis revealed that the 3D group scored…