The nonparametric Mokken model of test data was compared with parametric models using simulated data through latent class analysis. It is demonstrated that latent class analysis provides a consistent comparison of item response models. (SLD)

The first of two articles discusses virtual reality (VR) and online databases; the second one reports on an interview with Thomas A. Furness III, who defines VR and explains work at the Human Interface Technology Laboratory (HIT). Sidebars contain a glossary of VR terms and a conversation with Toni Emerson, the HIT lab's librarian. (LRW)

How item bias indexes based on item response theory (IRT) identify bias that results from multidimensionality is demonstrated. Simulation results suggest that IRT-based bias indexes detect multidimensional items with bias but do not detect multidimensional items without bias. They also do not confound between-group differences on the primary test.…

Simulations show effects of variability on the maximum contingency that can be displayed by an average 2 X 2 table. Results help explain the regularity known as the Tulving-Wiseman law, as well as conditions under which exceptions are found. Dangers posed by variability and Simpson's paradox are discussed. (SLD)

Considers the role of the simulation designer in the development of business enterprise simulations used in collegiate business education. Topics include the designer's knowledge domain; conflicting business administration theories in accounting, finance, economics, marketing, production, and income tax; and other designer issues. (LRW)

Some uniqueness properties are presented for the PARAFAC2 model for covariance matrices, focusing on uniqueness in the rank two case of PARAFAC2. PARAFAC2 is shown to be usually unique with four matrices, but not unique with three unless a certain additional assumption is introduced. (SLD)

Describes a spreadsheet that can be used to show the changes in intensity of Fraunhofer diffraction patterns produced by a single and double slits arrangement. Discusses a practical demonstration of diffraction that allows data to be logged and entered into the spreadsheet. (DDR)

Describes a replication study that explored differences between intermediate experts and novices mastering recurrent demands using a computer-based simulation. Functionality of mental models, declarative knowledge, acceptance of the learning environment, and intrinsic motivation to learn are discussed, and results that show no advantage for…

Five teams of postgraduate business students in three countries participate din a business strategy simulation game using e-mail and videoconferencing. The pilot study showed the need for technical support and a game administrator and the importance of making simulated competition conditions as realistic as possible to enable transfer of learning.…

An enterprise model, a computational model of knowledge about an enterprise, is a useful tool for integrated decision-making by e-commerce suppliers and customers. Sharable knowledge, once represented in an enterprise model, can be integrated by the modeled enterprise's e-commerce partners. Presents background on enterprise modeling, followed by…

Discusses incorporating interactive multimedia into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Presents examples of interactive exhibits from other museums and suggests ideas for the Hall of Fame to pursue: simulations of batting, signal use, and umpiring; a quiz show; a visitor poll; CD-ROM software; and an interactive database.…

Discusses the use of dynamic systems modeling in the field of school finance policy. Provides detailed description of the use of computer-based systems-modeling simulations to New Jersey school finance equity problems. (Contains 37 references.) (PKP)

Describes trends in technologies for electronic learning: developments in wireless that enable mobile learning, virtual universities, and simulations that involve emotionally charged situations. (SK)

We are able to recognise familiar faces easily across large variations in image quality, though our ability to match unfamiliar faces is strikingly poor. Here we ask how the representation of a face changes as we become familiar with it. We use a simple image-averaging technique to derive abstract representations of known faces. Using Principal…

There are certain simple rotations of objects that most people cannot reason about accurately. Reliable gaps in the understanding of a fundamental physical domain raise the question of how learning to reason in that domain might proceed. Using virtual reality techniques, this project investigated the nature of learning to reason across the domain…