This study explored the mental components that are most important for successful problem solving. Four components were studied: cognition, metacognition, noncognitive variables, and justification skills. It was hypothesized that cognition and knowledge of cognition would predict success at solving well-structured problems, which have one correct…

Connectionist models apply various mathematical rules within neural network computer simulations in an effort, among other things, to mimic and describe human memory associations and learning. Learning involves the interaction of information provided by instruction with existing information already in the learner's memory (Ausubel, 1968; Bruner,…

As museums and educators struggle with the challenges of presenting their material in a digital format, many overlook the application that has spearheaded the development of virtual reality for the average consumer: 3D realtime game engines. These 3D game engines offer greater versatility, usability, maturity, simulation, and codebase than most…

Trickshot! is an exploratory environment that allows learners to experiment with various physical properties to develop an intuitive understanding of the behavior of objects in physical systems. The software is geared to secondary students with little exposure to pool or physics. When used in conjunction with meaningful class activities, such an…

Describes a study conducted in Israel that investigated whether the caregiver's awareness to the emotional experiences that toddlers undergo in the first days in kindergarten improves through a virtual reality simulation of a toddler's world. Explains the use of virtual reality technology to simulate a toddler's first few days' experiences in a…

Discusses computer assisted learning and simulation modeling from a United Kingdom perspective. Highlights include modeling with the DMS (Dynamic Modelling System); modeling with STELLA; learning and teaching simulation modeling; educational development roles for learning technologists; and a list of relevant Web sites. (Contains 52 references.)…

As the focus shifts to learning in the workplace, emphasis is being placed on "infonuggets," chunking, or granularization: delivery of bits of training and information as needed on the job. Some delivery methods include electronic performance support systems, the Internet, and computer simulation. (SK)

Describes an assignment for an introductory computer science class that requires the student to write a software program that simulates an automated teller machine. Highlights include an algorithm for the assignment; sample file contents; language features used; assignment variations; and discussion points. (LRW)

Describes development of computer-based case simulation designed to assess skill in predicting client behavior and conceptual ability, resolution of informational dissonance, and experiential learning. Reviews theoretical basis for simulation. Summarizes preliminary investigation of simulation's reliability and validity. Discusses future research.…

A diabetes-management model is presented, which includes an attitudinal element and depicts relationships among causal elements. LISREL-VI was used to analyze data from 115 Type-I and 105 Type-II patients. The data did not closely fit the model. Results support the importance of the personal meaning of diabetes. (TJH)

Presents two short microcomputer programs which illustrate features of nonlinear dynamics, including steady states, periodic oscillations, period doubling, and chaos. Logistic maps are explained, inclusion in undergraduate chemistry and physics courses to teach nonlinear equations is discussed, and applications in social and biological sciences…

A method for estimating the first eigenvalue of random data correlation matrices is reported, and its precision is demonstrated via comparison to the method of S. J. Allen and R. Hubbard (1986). Data generated in Monte Carlo simulations with 10 sample sizes reaching up to 1,000 were used. (SLD)

Discussion of educational software evaluation highlights an evaluation based on program instrumentation of a medical school simulation program. Evaluation strategies are discussed; evaluation techniques, including interviews, questionnaires, and observation are described; and implications of the results of the program instrumentation for the…

Describes the "Buffon's Needle" problem, which is calculating the probability that a needle will cross one of two separated lines. Calculates the probability when the length of the needle is greater than the space of the two lines. Provides an analytic solution and the results of a computer simulation. (YP)

The application of operations research and computers is providing school bus routing and scheduling to five California counties. Illustrates the system requirements, steps for computerized calculations, a sample bus assignment report, and three data files. (MLF)