Examines proposals to computerize the political science curricula. Maintains that technological changes can support mainstream political science education, and provides criteria to determine whether microcomputers should be introduced. Questions whether fundamental abilities are improved by technology, and warns students may believe outcomes will…

After an introductory overview of innovations in the use of computers in education, nine papers focus on the following aspects of computer use: (1) the computer in the curriculum; (2) factors influencing the introduction and integration of computers in education; and (3) research aspects, including needs for research. (SLD)

Describes the liberal arts, computer laboratory-based economics program at Denison University (Ohio). Includes as goals helping students to (1) understand deductive arguments, (2) learn to apply theory in real-world situations, and (3) test and modify theory when necessary. Notes that the program combines computer laboratory experiments for…

Discusses solutions to real-world linear particle-motion problems using graphing calculators to simulate the motion and traditional analytic methods of calculus. Applications include (1) changing circular or curvilinear motion into linear motion and (2) linear particle accelerators in physics. (MDH)

Describes an interactive problem-solving videodisc program designed for the middle schools. Explains the interdisciplinary nature of the program that includes information from astronomy, geology, history, and meteorology. Contends that the product is an excellent example of well-designed educational software. (CFR)

Investigated the effects of studying an ecological system via computer simulation on 14- and 15-year-old students' (n=9) abilities to pose hypotheses; control and manipulate variables; and learn via icon, graph, and table display formats. Working with a simulation encouraged students to think hypothetically and test their hypotheses by controlling…

The assumptions common to all capture-recapture models for estimating population size are reviewed. A simulation using either a playing board, counters, and dice or computers is described. Classroom implications of using the board game are discussed. (KR)

Describes Maine's GAIA (Greek goddess of the earth) Crossroads Project. Elementary and secondary students prepare maps of local land and water resources from computer analyses of satellite images of the coastline. Students mix technology and environmental awareness, learning they can control their future by advising the townspeople on development.…

Lists supplementary materials cited in the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) database that can help social studies teachers use computers effectively in the classroom. Provides

Illustrated is the use of spreadsheet programs for implementing finite difference numerical simulations of chromatography as an instructional tool in a separations course. Discussed are differential equations, discretization and integration, spreadsheet development, computer requirements, and typical simulation results. (CW)

Explores the potential for and limitations to learning science when middle-school students interact with computer simulations designed by scientists and built by professional programmers. Findings suggest that computer simulations can be used effectively when teachers use learning needs to guide choice of pedagogical style and alternate…

Describes the pharma-CAL-ogy project, funded by Teaching and Learning Technology Programme (TLTP), which has developed various types of software for use in pharmacology courses. Topics include course organization and delivery software, drill and practice software, tutorial-type programs, simulations, and the need to integrate computer-assisted…

Describes three examples of learning environments that were created for the Web at Clyde Virtual University (Scotland) to enable task-oriented learning by allowing students to develop and apply skills and knowledge in a simulated environment. Discusses the staff's team approach, focusing on the end user, and the appropriate use of technology.…

The Internet-based CyberOlympics project involved 17 primary schools from five different countries competing against each other in an international sporting event (concurrent with the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games). Activities that benefited from Internet access, difficulties involved in running such projects, and suggestions as to how schools can…

Examines the extent to which student groups working with the Chelsea Bank computer simulation were able to use school-to-work transition skills. Results show that students demonstrated substantial involvement with workplace skills and were considerably more actively engaged with learning than studies of traditional classrooms. (Author/AEF)