Discusses improving mathematical reasoning through the design of computer microworlds and evaluates a computer-based learning environment that uses multiple representations to improve undergraduate students' conception of average speed. Describes improvement of students' estimates of average speed by using visual feedback from a simulation.…

Examines how the Internet serves the scientific research community. Highlights include collaboration and large group communication via e-mail; USENET discussion groups; advantages of the World Wide Web and software-based simulations; changes in information storage; and benefits and problems of electronic publishing and online journals. (AEF)

Describes the establishment of a library of computer images of histological preparations and the use of this library for computer-assisted instruction. Images from various organ systems along with line diagrams are stored on a central file server which can be accessed from remote terminals. The Fabric of Life program allows testing on each image…

Effectiveness of a computer simulation to teach endodontic diagnosis was assessed using three groups (n=34,32,24) of dental students. All were lectured on diagnosis, pathology, and radiographic interpretation. One group then used the simulation, another had a seminar on the same material, and the third group had no further instruction. Results…

Examines design and evaluation of computer-based role-playing. University students (n=41) were divided into two groups to use instructional programs with and without computer-based role-playing. Findings indicated that computer-based role-playing enhanced interpersonal skills development by employing a conversational model, offering opportunities…

Discusses research on different types of computer-based learning environments that indirectly foster self-explanations, and discusses ways of leveraging new computer and video technologies to enhance these environments by representing problem situations and their concepts dynamically. Concludes by suggesting that these learning environments can…

Reports on a study that compares the performance of students enrolled in two sections of a Web-based computer networking course: one utilizing a simulation package and the second utilizing a static, graphical software package. Analysis shows statistically significant improvements in performance in the simulation group compared to the…

Computerized infant simulators may deter early parenthood. A survey of 1,285 teenagers before and after simulation showed a significant change in some attitudes toward parenting. Males reported the strongest attitude change, while females began with more realistic understandings of parenting. Further study is needed to determine whether attitude…

The question of how children solve force and motion problems in computer simulations without explicit knowledge of the underlying physics was investigated. Keystroke sequences made by children were saved and analyzed, and children were interviewed to understand their perception of the relationship between keyboard input and on-screen action. (CW)

Discusses computer science developments in French primary schools and describes strategies for using computers in the classroom most efficiently. Highlights include the use of computer networks; software; artificial intelligence and expert systems; computer-assisted learning (CAL) and intelligent CAL; computer peripherals; simulation; and teaching…

Discusses characteristics of software that teachers should consider when selecting software, and reviews programs of good quality for use in elementary and/or secondary classes. Instructional design considerations and the amount of time required for a program are discussed, and games, tutorials, simulations, and drill and practice software are…

Describes an activity which uses the computer to produce an environment that encourages an inductive reasoning approach to ratio and proportion through a billiard ball simulation. Provides examples of graphs and bouncing ball data. (RT)

This paper describes a computer simulation of Buffon's needle problem. The problem considers the probability that a needle will cross a line when the needle is thrown in a random way onto the parallel lines a certain distance apart. The paper provides the algorithm and computer program. (YP)

Describes a computer simulation based on quarterly models of the U.S. economy during World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II. Recommends using these simulations to teach facts and knowledge, and as heuristic devices to develop an understanding of complex economic and historical relationships. (LS)

Describes the deterministic simulation (a given input always leads to the same output) and probabilistic simulation (new states are subject to predefined laws of chance). Provides examples of the application of the two simulations with mathematical expressions and PASCAL program. Lists seven references. (YP)