Based on a spiral model of technology evolution, elementary students used LOGO computer software to become both developers and users of technology. The computerized environment enabled 87% to reach intuitive understanding of physical concepts; 24% expressed more formal scientific understanding. (SK)

Proposes a procedure for generating multivariate nonnormal distributions. The procedure, an extension of the Fleishman power method (A. Fleishman, 1978), generates the average value of intercorrelations much closer to population parameters than competing procedures for skewed and heavy tailed distributions and small sample sizes. Reports Monte…

Describes the results of an effectiveness evaluation of an "intelligently coached simulation," the SINCGARS Tutor, that was developed to train military officers how to operate a SINCGARS radio. Posttests showed officers trained on the computerized tutor performed more accurately than a group trained on the actual equipment. (Author/LRW)

Discusses a prototype training system for organizational decision makers to help with information flow and reduce information overload. The system embeds an interactive simulation within a computer-based instruction system to enable decision makers to develop and employ information-filtering criteria. (Author/LRW)

Finds that computer simulations can be used to visualize the processes involved with lunar tides. Technology adds value, thus opening new paths for a more distinct analysis and increased learning results. (Author/CCM)

Restrictions due to loss of freedom in estimation, the targeting of the instrument, and the presence of misfit in the data were studied through simulation as factors that influence the asymptotic standard errors for person measures. The underestimation of the observed standard deviation of ability in simulated data is discussed. (SLD)

Another Rasch approach to the measurement of change, the multidimensional random coefficient multinomial logit model (MRCML), is proposed. The MRCML model can be applied to polytomous items and the investigation of variations in item difficulties. Some simulation studies demonstrate good parameter recovery for the MRCML model under various testing…

A simulation study was conducted to investigate the application of expected a posteriori (EAP) trait estimation in computerized adaptive tests (CAT) based on the partial credit model and compare it with maximum likelihood estimation (MLE). Results show the conditions under which EAP and MLE provide relatively accurate estimation in CAT. (SLD)

Describes experiences teaching ethical issues in the conduct of research over several semesters using a simulation of research into obedience by S. Milgram in the early 1960s. Describes students' reactions to the simulation at emotional and intellectual levels and discusses the ethical dilemma these reactions have created for teachers…

Calls for a coalition of different research methods and strategies to better understand learning and development. Describes two such strategies: (1) testing-the-limits decomposing age-graded differences in upper limits of plasticity; and (2) experimental simulation of development, a coordinated sequence of theory-guided research steps. Both…

Strategies to avoid the penalties of extra variation described by J. Cornfield and reduced degrees of freedom in community-level trials were compared in Monte Carlo simulations. The three conditions necessary to ensure nominal Type I and Type II error rates are detailed. (SLD)

The Community Land Use and Economics Simulation was tested in a U.S. and a Slovak university. Cultural differences in players' approaches appeared: the competitive aspects came more naturally to U.S. players; resource inequities, planning, and visioning were addressed differently. Materials developed for use in cross-cultural contexts should have…

Describes an activity that uses a simulation of glacial movement to stimulate middle school students' interest in geology. (JRH)

Provides asymptotic formulas for the standard errors of parameter estimates from the NOHARM computer program for restricted and unrestricted rotated models, using large-sample theory, and a goodness-of-fit test of the model. Used simulation to show that results from NOHARM are comparable to the three-stage estimator of B. Muthen (1993). (SLD)

The Equipment Replacement simulation game can be used to explain the different effects of various equipment buy/sell strategies on the economic performance of construction companies. The probabilistic aspect of demand in the construction market is incorporated. The game is implemented using Excel and Visual Basic for Applications. (Author/SK)