Discussion of educational and research advantages of using computer-based experimental simulations for the study of negotiation and dispute resolution in business schools focuses on two studies of undergraduates that used simulation exercises. The influence of time pressure on mediation is examined, and differences in student behavior are…

A design for test equating based on Item Response Theory is proposed and illustrated through a simulation study of about 1,000 primary students taking two examinations. This test-equating method allows decision makers in a standard setting exercise access to high quality information. (SLD)

Describes a class in human development where students took on roles of the elderly by simulating physical constraints and aging. Depicts their reactions to the conditions and behaviors of the elderly. Allows students to examine their personal conceptions of the elderly. Finds study fostered empathy with senior adults. (Author/NL)

F. M. Lord's flexilevel, computerized adaptive testing (CAT) procedure was compared to an item-response theory-based CAT procedure that uses Bayesian ability estimation with various standard errors of estimates used for terminating the test. Ability estimates of flexilevel CATs were as accurate as were those of Bayesian CATs. (TJH)

Describes computer software for use with various age groups. Topics include activities involving temperature, simulations, earth science, the circulatory system, human body, reading in science, and ecology. Provides information on equipment needed, availability, package contents, and price. Comments of reviews are presented by classroom teachers.…

Describes a method for helping students evaluate ethical issues in a systematic way, based on Lawrence Kohlberg's stages of moral development. Recommends the case-study approach for creating social constructs in which students face ethical dilemmas, and outlines a case-study ethics unit using Kohlberg's model. (MM)

Described is a two-pronged approach to assessment of cognitive-communicative functions in head injury, incorporating elements of both restorative and compensatory models. The approach combines: (1) use of standardized cognitive measures, and (2) observational protocols for systematic evaluation of functioning on integrated, multicomponent tasks…

Describes the construction of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and simulation programs that use public domain and shareware programs to simulate economic controversies. Limitations of economics education are discussed, alternative curriculum development that utilizes controversies is explored, and the application of this CAI model to other…

Discussion of prior experiential learning of older students who are applying for higher education courses focuses on assessment techniques developed in the United Kingdom that use simulation and gaming activities. Issues associated with establishing assessment criteria are discussed, and implications for educational staff and students are…

Discusses the application of probabilistic ideas, especially Monte Carlo simulation, to calculus. Describes some applications using the Monte Carlo method: Riemann sums; maximizing and minimizing a function; mean value theorems; and testing conjectures. (YP)

Proposes and analyzes Video Audience Simulation Technique (VAST), an electronic instructional aid related to video robotics, used to simulate audiences for public speakers, providing realistic speech rehearsal, instructor control of audience feedback to facilitate learning, and portrayal of specialized audiences unavailable in normal instructional…

Describes the potential benefits of the Pre-Teacher Assessment Project, that assesses sophomore education majors on 13 skill dimensions essential to effective teaching. Students demonstrate their skills during four simulated activities and receive follow-up modules to remediate weak areas. (Author/CB)

Discussion of drug education for fifth grade students focuses on a computer simulation in which students role-play adolescents encountering various situations where there is drug or alcohol involvement. Activities in the simulation are explained, and discussion groups that occur following the simulation are described. (LRW)

Introduces a computer solution of the oscillation of a mass suspended by a spring in a viscous liquid. Describes the equations of motion, spreadsheet solution, copying the formulas, plotting the results, and extending the applications. Presents spreadsheet and physics formulas for the step-by-step solution and spreadsheet solution. (YP)

Reviews the performance of computer programs for writing poetry and prose, including MARK V. SHANEY, MELL, POETRY GENERATOR, THUNDER THOUGHT, and ORPHEUS. Discusses the writing principles of the programs. Provides additional information on computer magnification techniques. (YP)