Discusses the current state of the art in virtual reality (VR), its historical background, and future possibilities. Highlights include applications in medicine, art and entertainment, science, business, and telerobotics; and VR for information science, including graphical display of bibliographic data, libraries and books, and cyberspace.…

Presents examples of the use of technology to motivate, teach, and empower children with physical and cognitive disabilities. Specific applications include the use of computers for antivictimization training, writing, self-expression, and improving communication skills. The work of the Center for Literacy and Disability Studies (North Carolina) is…

Explores the use of computer-based simulations using multimedia materials for a graduate course in school administration. Highlights include simulation applications in military and in business; educational simulations; the use of computers and other technology; production requirements and costs; and time required. (LRW)

Cognitive processes in the Raven Progressive Matrices Test, a nonverbal test of analytic intelligence, are analyzed in terms of processes distinguishing between high- and low-scoring students and processes common to all subjects and test items. Two experiments with 89 college students identify the abilities distinguishing among individuals. (SLD)

Discusses the development of Minerva, a command-and-control training simulator that uses a multimedia computer network to exercise senior decision makers in crisis management at the Metropolitan Police Service (London). Examines the learning environment, programs, performance reviews, training scenarios, and technology. (AEF)

In college apparel design courses, computer simulation of design and manufacturing, aimed at effective transfer of knowledge and skills from classroom to workplace, augment traditional teaching techniques. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research and studio projects and participate in competitions. Successful integration of…

A proposition that 3-D CAD provides an array of unambiguous solutions to engineering problems is illustrated. This proposition assumes that engineering problems are conceived in parallel processing mode while they are solved in sequential processing mode. Circle construction analysis, parallel equidistant planes, and solid modeling are discussed.…

An approach to reduce the barrier between two-dimensional computer-aided drafting and three-dimensional constructive solids modeling is graphically illustrated. This process, or some derivative, encompasses a significant portion of the future direction for engineering graphics education. (KR)

Described is a pilot course which includes a designed set of exercises to instruct students in procedures for creating solid models. A detailed description and analysis of students' various approaches used in completing a final design project are included. (KR)

Describes an introductory graphics course developed to expose undergraduates in the use of computer-based graphics as both a problem-solving and communication tool within engineering, the sciences, and other technical areas. Discusses course strategy, classroom setup, course content, and various software packages utilized in the course. (Author/KR)

Several ways of exploring the subject of global warming within the context of a conventional physics syllabus are suggested. The physics underlying greenhouse phenomena, the process of modelling (especially computers), possible future climatic scenarios, and the differing nature of the uncertainties associated with the many fields of study that…

Ways in which computers can contribute to science instruction are described. Science software is classified according to the primary assistance provided the teacher-instruction, information, or measurement and analysis. Drill and practice, simulations, tutorials, interactive videodisc, word processors, spreadsheets, databases, microcomputer-based…

Reviews 10 computerized business simulations used to teach business policy courses, discusses problems with measuring performance, and presents a statistically based approach to assessing performance that permits individual team goal setting as part of the computer model, and allows simulated firms to start with different financial and operating…

The debate on the educational value of dissection versus the value of animal life is examined. Interactive videodisc (IVD) technology is described in light of its potential for laboratory simulations. The design of the IVD-based dissection simulation, The Interactive Frog Dissection, is presented. (KR)

The problem-solving behaviors and genetics concepts employed by experts and novices during interaction with the computer simulation CATLAB, were examined. Thirteen subjects (3 experts and 10 novices) investigated a common hypothesis on a specific genetic trait during the computer activity. Using naturalistic research methods, general patterns of…