Research was undertaken to investigate various methods of presentation of a computer based science simulation as it related to student content knowledge of the simulation concepts. Three treatment groups of sixth grade students were used in the study: (1) two students per computer interacting with the simulation; (2) a total class presentation of…

Prior to the relatively easy access to computers which began in the mid-1960's, simulation was a tool only of researchers. Even now, students are frequently excluded from direct laboratory experiences for many reasons. However, computer simulation can open up these experiences, providing a powerful teaching tool for individuals, for small and…

This paper describes the development and evaluation of self-instructional Spanish course designed to produce an elementary communication skill sufficient to meet conversational and travel requirements. Some 106 lessons, known as AUTOSPAN and organized in seven major sections are described. Two novel pedagogic techniques which simulate live…

In this monograph, the author describes the variety of new and innovative instructional methods and materials being used to prepare educational administrators. Because the subject is new and the nomenclature surrounding it imprecise, the author defines his terms. An outline of the history of unconventional instructional methods and the rationale…

Describes the use of simulations in teacher education from 1960 to 1979, which was audiovisually based, and from 1980 to the present, which is computer based. Examples of several simulation strategies are presented and evaluated, and factors that will shape future developments are discussed. (67 references) (CLB)

Computer literacy has been identified as one of the most important factors for the effective use of computer-based technology in the workplace. Managers need to know the most efficient methods available to teach computer skills to their employees in a short time. Such methods need to be suitable for all employees, whether academically gifted or…

Simulation games serve many functions, but the important one to educators is that they present the student player with a real-life situation allowing him to use his knowledge and abilities while discovering decision-making skills for himself. To provide a basic reference on simulation gaming, essays on various aspects of games were collected from…

BOP, Inc., is a simulated mortgage and loan office serving students in the high schools of Bingham County, Idaho, through a mobile educational service program. The program's primary purpose is to provide work experiences for high school students who have office skills so that they can make decisions about working in an office. The teacher's manual…

Developed by the Campus Laboratory School of the State College at Buffalo, this program description proposes a simulated work environment which could be used to train educable and trainable retardates for hotel/motel aides more effectively and economically than on-the-job training or classroom lecture instruction. The proposed method of…

It is time that sociology made use of the increasingly popular teaching device of linking computer simulation and gaming. It is needed because in teaching courses in urban sociology, human ecology, and urban planning, we have found that: a) most class exercises present the community as a statis phenomenon; b) there is no quick and easy way to…

Incorporating the use of simulators, multimedia systems, and range setups, this driver education curriculum guide provides basic guidelines for the instructor and suggestions for supplemental student activities under these three instructional phases. An introductory section outlines the standards for driver education programs established by the…

Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) attacks one of the greatest problems of education--how to get sufficient variety in educational materials to teach each individual without requiring a group of trained personnel to prepare all possible variations. CAI permits individualization electronically. CAI can be used to train problem solving, for drill…

This report describes design techniques, areas of effective application, and research directions in educational simulations. The five chapters contain (1) a review of recent literature; (2) an overview of the field of simulation including definitions and some of the rationales for using simulation in instruction; (3) an outline of the design…

Rich educational environments encourage students to construct their own knowledge, to solve problems collaboratively, and to heighten their interest and motivation to continue to learn. This paper presents the findings of a qualitative study that investigated the formation of collaborative problem solving through social interaction during a…

Location Decisions is a simulation game in which students obtain and evaluate information about several potential business locations in light of location requirements specific to their game businesses. In Location Decisions, the specific content area taught to students is the process for choosing a location for a small business; the basic skills…