This article is a review of the impact upon science learning of classroom and laboratory uses of computers in grades K-16 as revealed by published, peer-reviewed research from 1988-95. Highlights include problems with media-comparison studies, computer-assisted instruction, computer simulations, microcomputer-based laboratories, interactive video,…

Argues the archaeologist/anthropologist approach motivates and engages students, and teaches interpretive and problem-solving skills. Outlines a role play for intermediate grades in which students observe, describe, and make inferences about the contents of a suitcase packed by someone known to the students. Lists objectives, materials,…

Reviews two chemistry software packages: (1) "Organic Reaction Chemistry" (organic chemistry, college level, Apple II); and (2) "Chemical Reactions, Reactions in Aqueous Solution, and Oxidation Reduction Reactions" (general chemistry, college level, IBM). (MVL)

Presents 18 secondary level student activities that focus on women in twentieth-century Canadian history. Designed to challenge students to question their assumptions and sharpen critical thinking skills, these strategies use role playing, simulation, and research skills to explore the enfranchisement, socialization and historical role of women.…

Summarizes eight papers from the 1989 National Educational Computing Conference (NECC). The papers describe: (1) programs for teaching physical science, astronomy, and mathematics; (2) integrating telecommunications into school science; (3) use of models and simulations; and (4) the 1988 Association for the Education of Teachers in Science…

Reviews three software programs: (1) "Cartooners"--develops creative arts and animation, grades 1-6, Apple IIGS; (2) "PC Globe+"--social studies, geography, grades 4-12, IBM(384K); (3) "Wood Car Rally"--physical science, scientific method, grades 3-9, Apple II. (MVL)

Describes a space education center that was developed in a Utah elementary school as a spacecraft simulator. Highlights include funding methods; business and community participation; student programs, including field trip opportunities for other schools; and the use of technology, including videodisc, videotapes, computers, telephone systems, and…

Contends that an important goal in history instruction is helping students understand the complexity of events. Describes the use of "Escalation," a commercially available computer simulation, in a high school U.S. history class. Includes excerpts from student journals kept during the activity. (CFR)

Maintains that literacy and informed decision making in an uncertain world require the ability to reason statistically. Describes a course designed to help students use statistical concepts as tools for social reasoning within simulations of real-world problems. Describes four types of instructional activities used. (CFR)

The effectiveness of a multi-element approach to increase the self-determination of three adolescents with physical and multiple disabilities was examined. The intervention involved equipment and performance adaptations, brief in-school simulation training, and instruction and support for parents and home assistance providers. Dramatic increases…

Reports results of a survey of 36 college students who played the Commons Game. This game was developed to illustrate the behavioral patterns, complexities, and frustrations involved in management of commons resources, cited as a major concern for future generations. (10 references) (MCO)

This second article in a two-part series on telecommunications in secondary schools examines strategies for better support of telecommunications implementation. Highlights include management strategies for CMC (computer-mediated communication) use; instructional strategies for online database inquiries; teacher support strategies; simulation…

Describes a computer simulation called ICCARUS (Intelligent Command and Control, Acquisition and Review Using Simulation) that was developed for training fire officers in the United Kingdom. The integration of microcomputer-based software, videodisks, and audio material on compact disks into the simulation is described; and results of an…

This study examines the effect of the "Technical Troubleshooting Tutor," a computer-coached training program, on aircraft electrical system troubleshooting. Performance ability differences between control groups are noted, and troubleshooting models and flow diagram examples are included. The study demonstrates the possibilities for…

This second report on a two-part study on the application of informetrics to information retrieval (IR) system design used models of database contents in a factorial simulation study at the University of Western Ontario. The study explored whether different file structures were better suited for different informetric environments. (32 references)…