Discussion of the difference between an educational simulation and other interactive learning events highlights the effects terminology can have on both facilitators and participants. Five common mistakes made in running simulations are identified, and gaming terminology used in Britain and in the United States is discussed. (three references)…

Describes the use of computer graphics simulations to enhance student understanding of sampling distributions that arise in introductory statistics. Highlights include the distribution of sample proportions, the distribution of the difference of sample means, the distribution of the difference of sample proportions, and the distribution of sample…

Provides educational resources for teaching geography from the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC). Includes units on the Model United Nations, China, Middle America, and the United States. Resources stress themes of economic, political, and social interactions and interdependence. Provides simulations, maps, sample tests, and lesson…

Procedures for implementing parallel analysis (PA) criteria in practice were compared, examining regression equation methods that can be used to estimate random data eigenvalues from known values of the sample size and number of variables. More internally accurate methods for determining PA criteria are presented. (SLD)

A Monte Carlo study determined the Inverse Scree Test's shape with various numbers of true groups and under different conditions of distribution shape and sample size. Six simulated distributions of 3,000 subjects each and 1 with 1,500 were created. Findings suggest relative distribution independence, number independence, and modest…

Discussion of the use of business simulations in the classroom focuses on performance measurement and evaluation of managerial potential of individual players. The use of profit figures as a performance measure is examined, problems with evaluation by profits are described, and the use of forecasts and estimates as alternative evaluation criteria…

Describes a two-stage experiment that was designed to explain binomial distribution to undergraduate statistics students. A manual coin flipping exercise is explained as the first stage; a computerized simulation using MINITAB software is presented as stage two; and output from the MINITAB exercises is included. (two references) (LRW)

Computer simulation of drug formulation problems involves a database of pharmacological properties, chemical stability, and compatibility data on 20 active ingredients, physiological factors and requirements for parenteral solutions, and additives. The user gathers data from the database, formulates a stable and effective solution, and the drug is…

Presents a framework identifying the molecular level assumptions underlying many thermodynamic models. Tests the assumptions using theory and computer simulation to develop better assumptions. (YP)

Describes a model for the workload of a full text retrieval system and of a simulation model for a version of an existing system called Full/Text. The effectiveness of various data caching strategies using the 2 models are explored, and the impact of various parameters on the strategies are evaluated. (13 references) (LRW)

Some effects of using unidimensional item response theory (IRT) were examined when the assumption of unidimensionality was violated. Adaptive and nonadaptive tests were used. It appears that use of a unidimensional model can bias parameter estimation, adaptive item selection, and ability estimation for the two types of testing. (TJH)

Simulation techniques were used to generate conventional test responses and track the proportion of alternatives examinees could classify independently before and after taking the test. Finite-state scores were compared with these actual values and with number-correct and formula scores. Finite-state scores proved useful. (TJH)

General guidelines are developed to assist practitioners in devising operational computerized adaptive testing systems based on the graded response model. The effects of the following major variables were examined: item pool size; stepsize used along the trait continuum until maximum likelihood estimation could be calculated; and stopping rule…

Describes a "hypothetical," a training technique based on a television panel game, in which participants engage in an imaginary scenario that raises issues of concern in adult education practice. Discusses its pertinence to adult learning, compares it to other strategies, and explains how to develop and run a hypothetical. (SK)

Provides a simulation based on Marco Polo's journey. Demonstrates the hardships of 13th century travel by presenting students with difficult choices under challenging and primitive environmental conditions. Includes suggestions for class activities prior to using the simulation. (LS)