Cognitive simulations are runnable computer programs for modeling human cognitive activities. A case study is reported where expert systems were used as a formalism for modeling metacognitive processes in a seminar. Building cognitive simulations engages intensive introspection, ownership and meaning making in learners who build them. (Author/AEF)

Reports the results of research that examined ways in which a computer simulation of a banking workplace influenced high schoolstudents' general knowledge and understanding about the world of work. Results indicated students who used the simulation had a broader sense of work and had more subtle understandings of current trade-offs than did…

Describes a simulation that was used in an English as a second language class designed for Southeast Asian government officials enrolled in an English for International Communication program in conjunction with Canadian cultural immersion. Discusses results of a questionnaire that investigated students' responses to and perceptions of the…

Considers whether critical thinking can be trained with computer-based instruction. Reviews literature on the effects of cognitive tools, collaborative computer-supported environments, computer simulations, and logic software on critical thinking, and reports on two experimental studies at the University of Erfurt that instructed undergraduates in…

Discusses communication skills in instructional design. Highlights include academic preparation; a communication model that includes data, feelings, and credibility; communication with the employer, the client, and peers; and strategies for improving communication, including partnerships with businesses, internships, collaboration with other…

A logistic regression model for characterizing differential item functioning (DIF) between two groups is presented. A distinction is drawn between uniform and nonuniform DIF in terms of model parameters. A statistic for testing the hypotheses of no DIF is developed, and simulation studies compare it with the Mantel-Haenszel procedure. (Author/TJH)

Procedures based on latent trait models and the Rasch model are described for computation and asymptotic statistical inference for two decision consistency indexes often used in mastery or competence testing. Simulations were conducted for typical mastery testing situations to illustrate the procedures. (SLD)

Examines the use of drama and dramatic activities in English language teaching by reviewing some of the theories behind the use of drama with learners of English and then by studying some practical procedural strategies such as lesson preparation, students' language needs, and classroom organization. (10 references) (GLR)

Discusses assessment and evaluation instruments associated with the observation and analysis of communication within groups involved in simulations, games, and role play workshops. Interpersonal communication is described from three perspectives: (1) observer-based, (2) self-assessment, and (3) a combination of self- and colearner assessment. (21…

Notes that not having anything to say is a major hurdle in the writing process at the middle school level. Describes two common classroom experiences, based on the software programs "GeoWorld" and "Food for Thought," that enable all students to acquire and share information together. (RS)

Describes the results of a research project that tested computer assisted language teaching/learning programs in everyday classroom situations. The evaluative principles and the selection of the programs evaluated are discussed, and the applied techniques borrowed from cognitive psychology in the evaluation of text manipulation programs of the…

Describes a computer simulation designed to examine secondary school students' strategies in solving a physics problem involving the velocity of a rocket. Students' beliefs about dynamics are discussed, use of the LOGO programing language to explore the idea of velocity is described, and ways in which simulations can support teachers' diagnostic…

Describes an intelligent tutoring system (ITS) that demonstrates how intelligent feedback can enhance conventional simulation-based training. An explanation is given of the Intelligent Conduct of Fire Trainer (INCOFT), which was designed to provide training exercises for soldiers operating the PATRIOT missile system, and its implications for…

Discusses making a computer-simulated rainbow using principles of physics, such as reflection and refraction. Provides BASIC program for the simulation. Appends a program illustrating the effects of dispersion of the colors. (YP)

Includes an excerpt from "Tail Tigerswallow and the Great Tobacco War." Suggests using a similar story to design a social studies lesson to help students ask relevant social issue questions. Employs role playing, simulation, debate, and writing letters to editors in the lesson plans. (NL)