The development of an interactive videodisc-microcomputer simulation of a visit to a Mexican village for college-level Spanish instruction is described. Problems encountered, production considerations, computer program development, hardware, and classroom results are discussed. (MSE)

Ten computer simulations for the Apple II are described. Subject areas of programs include: population dynamics, plant competition, enzyme kinetics, evolution and natural selection, genetic mapping, ammonia synthesis, reaction kinetics, wave interference/diffraction, satellite orbits, and particle scattering. (JN)

A variety of teaching methods for interpersonal skills training are suggested and explained, including role playing, simulated interviews, stimulus vignettes, videotaping, and clinic experience discussions. Other suggestions for implementation of these methods address sequence, grading, and faculty development. (MSE)

Presents a general framework for human factors considerations in training and illustrates the relationship between human factors and computer-based training (CBT) research by descriptions of studies dealing with six major aspects of the CBT interface: training administration, management, instructional design and development, testing and…

Seven articles in this issue focus on the use of realia in instruction. Authors discuss reasons why realia effectively motivate students and enhance learning; the place of realia in supervised occupational experience programs; the importance of real-life experiences to vocational agriculture; and student teaching as a reality experience. (SK)

Describes a learning experience in the labor relations unit of the distributive education course at Bristol (Rhode Island) High School, in which students negotiate a "contract of course requirements" for the school year in the form of a labor-management agreement after simulated collective bargaining. A sample contract is included. (MF)

The primary objective of a training program based within an internal medicine department at the University of Texas Medical Branch was to increase the interviewing skills of medicine residents, especially regarding the psychosocial aspects of patients. The program, evaluation methods, and results are described. (JMD)

Colleges must turn to long-range enrollment planning to ensure proper academic and fiscal management. The Higher Education Finance Research Institute, with the College Board, has developed a model that will allow colleges to test the current scale and scope of their programs against regional projections of their enrollment potential during the…

The accuracy of estimation of the subjects' latent ability maintained by tailoring for each testee the order of item presentation and the border of item dichotomization was compared to the information provided by the original graded test items. (RC)

Describes the InfoMagic program at Chapman University (Orange, California), a three-part multimedia program for teaching information-access skills. Discusses the network simulations; automatic tracking and reporting; distributed versus centralized reporting; and student participation and feedback. Sidebars show examples of two student reports and…

Describes a class where students learn microeconomics from the perspective of a new business owner. This approach requires reordering the typical sequence of material and introducing a market simulation exercise. Includes a sample business plan, course outline, and data tables. (MJP)

The consequences in terms of misclassifications of students that would occur by replacing the constructed-response portion of the Advanced Placement (AP) examinations in economics with more multiple-choice items were studied. The 1991 AP examinations in micro- and macroeconomics were used. Computer simulation found that a small but statistically…

Discusses classroom computer applications in engineering: a student learning assessment program providing remedial work, positive reinforcement, teacher information for follow-up lesson preparation, and a record-keeping matrix and an expert trouble-shooting system that allows students to debug their own circuit designs by testing simulated…

Describes and advocates various technologies which have modernized the Air Force's Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT). After outlining some theoretical background, the article provides details on student proficiency profiles, the portable electronic trainer, the unit training device, specialized visual and acoustic displays, and the…

A patient instructor (PI) program to improve dental students' data-gathering and interpersonal skills had each third-year student in 2 consecutive classes (n=60, n=72) interview 4 patient instructors during a rotation. Each PI portrayed one of six scenarios, assessed students on content knowledge and clinical and interview skills, and provided…