Discusses the use of a computer simulation program in teaching the concepts of spectrophotometry. Introduces several parts of the program and program usage. Presents an assessment activity to evaluate students' mastery of material. Concludes with the advantages of this approach to the student and to the assessor. (ASK)

Investigated second graders' ability and motivation to create and manipulate simulations using KidSim software. Found that using KidSim was a motivating experience and the students were able to develop complex simulations. The dominant motivational factors were the freedom to create original characters and the rules to direct them. Other…

This article describes and tests a theory of scientific discovery learning based on the Scientific Discovery as Dual Search (SDDS) model. A study of 22 university chemistry students determined that conditions for performing a search operation in hypothesis space include sufficient knowledge of the search operation and reasons for choosing a…

Evaluates the importance of realism in the screen presentation of the plant in computer-based laboratory simulations for part-time engineering students. Concludes that simulations are less effective than actual laboratories but that realism minimizes the disadvantages. The schematic approach was preferred for ease of use. (AIM)

To effectively integrate information technology into classroom activities, preservice teachers must know a variety of computer concepts. Presents a model used to instruct preservice teachers in programming activities based on simulation and interactive learning. Students gained an understanding of computer roles, their programming, and…

To help students of labor law understand the industrial union experience, one professor created a simulation in which students formed a union and bargained with the teacher on course terms and conditions. Planning considerations, simulation stages, and lessons learned are described. The exercise produced a meaningful context for students, taught…

Describes several of the labs developed by Project CLEA (Contemporary Laboratory Experiences in Astronomy). The computer labs cover simulated spectrometer use, investigating the moons of Jupiter, radar measurements, energy flow out of the sun, classifying stellar spectra, photoelectric photometry, Doppler effect, eclipsing binary stars, and lunar…

Describes an interactive computer program that simulates the physiological response to graded exercise in healthy individuals. The program presents high-resolution graphic data in a form comparable to that of a chart recorder display. Data are derived from an empirical model that allows users to select parameters to investigate. The program was…

In a mountaineering role-playing project in Quebec schools, participating students, in groups of five, must cooperate and use the different skills acquired across the whole curriculum to overcome difficulties and attain success. The students plan a simulated mountain-climbing expedition, solve problems, and cope with various crises. (TD)

Extends a study on the developmental effects of learners noticing differences between their own and native speaker output. Spanish learners were assigned to three groups: task repetition, noticing, and noticing + simulated recall. Learners noticed differences between their own essays and reformulated writing and that there were quantitative…

Describes a novel modeling and simulation package and assesses its impact on students' understanding of chemistry. Connected Chemistry was implemented inside the NetLogo modeling environment. Using Connected Chemistry, students employed problem -solving techniques characterized by stronger attempts at conceptual understanding and logical…

Discusses the use of clinician-designed thematic role-play scenarios during auditory training to enhance the conversational skills of preschool and elementary children with hearing impairments. Transcripts of two sample scenarios are provided with data analysis. (DB)

Discusses six ways in which technology is transforming science education in classrooms across America. Discusses jet fuel for science reform, access to inaccessible worlds, thinking like scientists, turning data into pictures, exploration through simulation, and bringing teachers up to speed. (JRH)

Discussion of computer-based simulations focuses on the development of a coaching agent as an alternative to traditional feedback for a multimedia simulation that will help change training from traditional instructor-led courses to learn-by-doing simulations for point-of-need training. The limitations of traditional feedback are examined. (LRW)

Discusses computer games being used for education and training. Describes educational computer games; simulation games in military training; adventure games in business and corporate environments; interface design; pedagogical knowledge; domain expertise; and future possibilities. (LRW)